Sewing Trend Aims to Stitch Unravelling Economy

As the economy struggles, sewing machines are surging into action. It's a multi-billion dollar industry that's growing even in troubled times.

Mary Claflin, instructor at Claflin Academy of Sewing and Design has a real talent and a skill that's catching on.

"People want to learn to sew for a number of reasons. All ages are learning, both men and women, boys and girls," she says.

At the quilt shop below the academy they're seeing it too, new faces eager to learn, and old faces that can't get enough.

"It's taking a hunk of fabric and creating. It's turning it into something," says Kim Hansen, co-owner of Fasturn Junction.

At a time when other companies are hemming in business, Hansen and her business partner took a leap and bought the quilt shop from its former owners.

"When times are tough the tough get going," says Hansen.

She says the unraveling economy has actually been good for business. Some people have more time to sew because they're working fewer hours. Others like how it keeps them busy at home instead of out spending money.

But some may be surprised to hear her say, "It's not necessarily cheaper to make your own clothes and it's certainly not cheaper to make your own quilt."

She and Claflin say it's about better quality. And that can save you cash in the long run.

"It's expensive to keep replacing clothing and granted we've got Wal-Marts and Targets and stuff where the clothing tends to be a bit cheaper, but it's easier if you know how to hem pants, if you can put buttons back on," says Claflin.

And some love the idea of having custom fitted clothing which is why Claflin's bra making classes draw students from Central California up to Portland.

"That's become real popular with women that are uncomfortable with going to the stores or have trouble finding bras that fit properly," says Claflin.

Community sewing groups meet every Tuesday and Wednesday at Fasturn Junction. The groups create items that are donated back to the community. They're free, open to the public, and all skill levels are welcome.