For our March Maker Spotlight, we're excited to introduce you to Sooyoung, whose attitude to making really mirrors that of The Modern Sewing Co. In essence, take a pattern, make it your own and come back to it again and again with fresh ideas for how it can enhance your wardrobe. We're feeling very inspired by her chocolate suede version of the Darcy Coat…
Meet Sooyoung
My name is Sooyoung and I live in Westchester, NY, just outside of NYC with my husband, two toddlers, and the bestest dog in the world. I work in finance now, but I used to be a theater producer. I left the field to start a family with my theater artist husband - I don’t regret the decision but still longed for a creative outlet.
Enter a sewing machine! My handle @suki.sews is after my beloved grandmother, Suki, who was an avid sewist and knitter. It felt natural to pick up a sewing machine and to give it a try. The idea of making my own garments and not relying on fast fashion appealed to me as well. 
I initially went through this colorful/linen everything/cottage core period because a lot of sewists and slow fashion influencers that I admire were pulling off that style so effortlessly. After a couple of years of that, I realized that I didn’t look great in them. I bought SO MUCH GINGHAM that I still sit on. (One day they’ll all come together in an epic quilt...) I believe that anyone can wear whatever they want, but I just didn’t feel comfortable in them. What can I say? At my core, I am still a New Yorker. I feel most like myself in dark, neutral colors and simple silhouettes.
These days, I look for designs that are timeless and versatile. I want any piece of clothing to be worn repeatedly for many occasions. For kiddos’ pick-ups and drop-offs, museum and zoo outings, and occasional date nights.
Hetty’s designs really spoke to me as a classic but exciting base that can be dressed up or down for everything.
For example, one of my most recent makes is the Darcy Coat in chocolate faux suede. I made a long version and the optional belt. Because of its classic shape, this coat has been so versatile! I wear them with sneakers and jeans (none other than Daphne Trousers!) for casual days, but I know that it can be worn with a dress or cool shirt (worn with Belle Shirt here) for evenings. I loved wearing it to NYC Frocktails! It will also look amazing with a dress once it gets warmer.
Another lesson that I learned is that I can make the same pattern multiple times and they can still feel fresh! Last year, I signed up for the Modern Sewing Co.’s Capsule Course. Twice. And both times I ended up making the Classic Shirts, Daphne Trousers, and Potter’s Jackets. Two pieces of each pattern. I’m not exactly sure what happened other than… I loved them that much? They are my staples that get so many wears!
Classic Shirt is classic for good reasons! The only mod that I made were narrow shoulder adjustments and adding a jet pocket for the second version after seeing Hetty’s. I have always wanted to pull off that crisp shirt look but could never find a button up that looked good on my teeny shoulders… until I learned to make my own. Sewing is magic!!
My denim Daphne Trousers are probably one of the most worn pieces in my wardrobe. The shape is simple but flattering, and I love the ankle cuff detail!
I also made a hacked linen pair with side snaps during one of the Capsule Courses with support from the lovely MS team. I added side pockets for both — the instructions were also from the same course. I was very grateful for the handholding as it was my first time sewing a zipper fly AND making substantial hacks! 
I worked with wool for the first time for this Potter’s Jacket, so elegantly styled by my toddler. It was also my first attempt at a lined jacket! I loved it so much I made an unlined denim version which felt very breezy after the wool version. It also matches my denim Daphne Trousers! I feel very cool in this ensemble.
Another favorite is French Smock. I cut a size larger than my typical MS sizing except the bib, which was the largest size offered. From there, I added a collar stand, as well as pipings to the bib and sleeve cuffs. I wore this shirt out to a little bistro for our wedding anniversary dinner and felt very chic! A classic blue shirt with a twist, it goes with so many colors.
I am so proud of the little collection of memade items that I’ve built so far. And all the skills that I picked up along the way! It feels amazing to work with my hands, create something, and get better each time. With practice, my stitches are straighter, my finishes neater, and the construction more intuitive. In the age where everything has moved to digital, it feels truly special to build something so tangible. I also believe that there will be some value in my kids seeing me constantly making things. Often they’re drawing or tinkering with their craft projects while I sew or knit. I dream of teaching them someday!
Sooyoung
