fashioning a Christian ethic of clothing
Even a little bit of sewing will make you more mindful of your clothing: its source, its fit, the value of the labor that produced it. I think that learning to sew at least one garment can be a life-changing way to change your relationship to the purpose of clothing.
Because the Bible doesn't give explicit guidance about hemline length (etc), we must work these questions out in each new season of human history, as trends, fashions, and besetting sins evolve. That's well and good: but only if we are doing the same thing for all areas of life.
Overview Fashioned from an old curtain and bedsheet, this Simplicity 8384 shirtdress has become a staple in my wardrobe, despite some serious frustrations while sewing it. I combined the sleeveless bodice from view A with the skirt from view B. Virtues I liked this pattern immediately: it's fitted bodice, a-line skirt, and fun hemline options… Continue reading Pattern Review: Simplicity 8384
Rivoli, Pietra. The Travels of a T-Shirt in the Global Economy. 2nd ed. Wiley, 2014. {Direct Link} Over the past year, I've been part of a "local fiber" study group through the Weavers' and Spinners Society of Austin. The purpose of the group was to explore current systems of textile production, to learn about the concept of… Continue reading Book Review: The Travels of a T-Shirt in the Global Economy
My longtime friend Michelle Palmer has co-founded an excellent site called Tuesday Justice. Focused on questions of oppression, equality, and freedom, Michelle and her co-editor, Channon Oyeniran offer ways to engage these important matters of justice on ordinary days and in everyday ways. This week they've asked me to write about how justice relates to… Continue reading Guest post on Tuesday Justice!
Overview From the picture on the pattern envelope, this dress looks like everything I want in a summery frock: breezy, light, and with good options for sleeves (or lack thereof) and length. I made this version out of a bedsheet I had in my workroom (and apparently channeled my inner cheesy-grinned four-year-old when my husband… Continue reading Pattern Review: Simplicity 8231
Let’s imagine what it would mean for our literal clothing to symbolize our commitment to justice, mercy, and delight.
Throughout the Scriptures, God ordains significant material and metaphorical uses for textiles and clothing. Our own textiles should, likewise, participate in God’s story, turning our hearts and mind toward God’s eternal love for his creatures.
