Ver Minderman
Sewist Spotlight: Meet Ver
How long have you been sewing?
About 80 years.
How did you learn to sew?
My grandmother moved in with us when I was 5 years old. I would thread her needles and she would make quilts. I was allowed to use the “White” sewing machine so I learned by “trial and error”. In the early “sixties” (1960), I took 3 ½ years of lessons from “Mr. Micelli”.
What was the first thing you remember sewing?
A “broomstick” skirt for my doll.
What do you like to sew?
Clothes – and anything else that is associated with sewing.
Any particular type of fabric you like to use.
Wool
What kind of sewing machine do you have? Any other machines like serger, etc.
2 Baby Locks and a Baby Lock Serger.
What do you make that you are most proud of?
I have made Men’s Sports Coats and Suits for myself. I also made my daughter’s Wedding Dress. Many flower girl dresses and many doll clothes!
How long have you been a Guild member? Why did you join the Guild?
20 + years
Biggest change in sewing over the years?
Many years ago, everything had to be perfect inside and out. Now – if it brings you “joy” – it is ok!!
Best sewing tip for us?
Just START – you can always remake it or throw it away.
Is there anything about you that you would like us to know?
As a freshman in college, with the help of a Home Economic major (senior), Suzi and I made a formal out of a heavy white seersucker “Bedspread”. I put a big wide navy satin belt around the waist and wore it to the Spring dance. I saw Suzi at a Sorority Event about 10 years ago – and she said for 40 years of teaching Home Economics, she used this story for all her classes. Sometimes you have to think outside the “Box”.