The Woman Behind the Madness
Hi there, I’m Courtney.
I am a scientist, sewist, costumer, and gamer based in Houston, TX. I am a huge sci-fi nerd and bibliophile. I sew everything from historical reproductions, costumes/cosplay, geeky clothing and accessories (messenger bags, etc.), to even quilts.
I am a self-taught seamstress with over 25 years of experience. I think I got the bug from both of my grandmothers, who were fantastic with hand and machine sewing. I started making costumes around the age of 15 and garb for Renaissance festivals. With that, a hobby was born. My mom isn’t too shabby with a machine either, and she taught me how to draft patterns using newspaper. I am eternally grateful for their advice and guidance over the years.
Equipment
My main sewing machine is a Kenmore 19110 110-stitch computerized sewing machine. It’s identical to the Janome DC2010 – 2014, 2019 (because Janome made it), and it is fantastic. I’ve sewn through layers upon layers of fabric and even thin leather! I swear if this machine ever dies, I’ll be devastated. I’ll also hunt down another. I’m not even kidding.
For heavier fabrics, since I don’t want to overwork the 19110, I use a Janome HD-1000. I acquired it a few years ago, and it’s a metal beasty. Not to mention it’s black like my soul. I love it. It can go through a couple layers of thin leather and several layers of denim like nobody’s business. I highly recommend it!
For even heavier-duty jobs and bags, I use the Elna Elnita ef1. It is the same as the Janome HD9, similar to the Janome QC 1600, etc. It sews through leather and denim like it is nothing. I affectionately call mine Jennifer Walters (AKA She Hulk). It only does a straight stitch, but it sews 1600 stitches/minute. I’ve gone through 12 layers of denim before it got angry at me. I’ve even sewn through two 1/4″ pieces of leather with no problem.
To help finish seams, I also use a Kenmore 3/4 serger. This is the same as the Janome 8933. This is pretty much the best investment I have made in my hobby – and I recommend it to anyone who wants to start taking sewing seriously. I can also recommend a couple of books on using a serger/overlock machine.
I think the last thing I need would be a machine that can do a cover stitch. We’ll see which one I end up with eventually.
BEHOLD! I am now the proud owner of a Bernette b70 deco! This baby is QUIET! I am honestly surprised at how quiet it is. You can barely hear it in the rest of the house if I have my office door open. Amazing. It features three different hoop sizes, with the largest being 260mm x 180mm. There are also a Dime / Bernette Monster Snap Hoops available, which make embroidery about 10x easier.
My newest machine is for traveling to conventions, because you know someone will *NEED* a sewing machine for an emergency repair or to finish their cosplay. I purchased the Janome 311LE, a simple 15-stitch full-size machine that happens to be Indigo with a Wisteria design. What can I say, I love Bridgerton, and when they came out with this beauty, it was a no-brainer. Did I need a machine for travel? Yes. Did I spend a little extra to get the bougie Bridgerton one? Also yes. She’s so cute!
To get any of these machines, and see what notions I prefer, check out my Amazon page here. (Full disclosure: I get a very small % from items purchased through this link)
To check out my Antique and Vintage sewing machine collection, click here.
Why The Patchwork Pirate?
The Patchwork Pirate (PatchworkPirate) is the name I use for my sewing side project/hobby/avatar/whatever. Someone referred to me at the TN Ren Faire as “The Patchwork Pirate”. I’m rolling with it. In fact, I wish I could meet that person again and thank them.
On occasion, I do take commissions, depending on my workload at the lab and whatever else I have going on. Please feel free to email me, and I’ll be happy to get back to you! I’ll also be able to let you know my availability and whether or not I’m taking a commission at the time.
I hope to see some of you around the convention circuit (esp. DragonCon), and if you see me, come say hi!
Stay shiny!
~ Courtney
