Meet the Maker - Bec Smith
Posted by Angie CHIA on
Have you ever met someone who is not only incredibly creative but also superbly supportive? Meet Bec Smith, the tester and maker who embodies both qualities. Bec kicks off our first instalment of featured makers for August!
Bec and her beautiful daughters are no doubt familiar faces! Her creative energy, dedication, and passion has been an inspiration to many sewers since we launched in 2020 and you will find many photos of her daughters on our website and in our sewing group. You can find Bec on her IG @twice.loved.creations busy creating magic with her vintage finds!
Tell us a little bit about yourself...
Hi I’m Bec, the owner/creator of Twice Loved Creations and I live in Perth, Western Australia. I’m a Mum to 4 amazing girls. My Mum and Nana taught me to sew when I was a child and both were very creative women. My Mum even sewed my debutante ball gown! I like to think creating is in my genes as my Dad’s Mum was also a seamstress, specialising in lingerie and Bridal wear. I sewed for my dolls when I was a child and then started back up when I had my girls. It wasn’t until 2015 that I really jumped back into creating and decided to start my business. My youngest daughter, Charlotte, was 2 years old. Twice Loved Creations was born and I operated it full time for 7 years. I have since gone back to full time work as a Laboratory Technician. I still love to create, and I am a guest designer in a couple of US showcase groups.
I began pattern testing in 2020 and started on board with Peony Patterns from the very first pattern, Daisy. I have started venturing into more detailed designs using tulles and embellishments, which is always a challenge. There’s not many patterns I haven’t tested and I’m forever grateful to be part of this amazing team.
What does the future hold?? I’d love to learn costume design and pattern designing. My current focus is to see my girls get through school and then dive in.
How did you learn to sew and when?
Initially my mum taught me. Later I learned from my Nana when we had holidays together.
What's your favourite type of fabric to work with?
Cotton woven and vintage linens. I’m extremely passionate about sustainable fashion and this is reflected through my creations. I love to use vintage fabrics, trims and embroidered linens.
What's your favourite Peony make to date?
A vintage embroidered linen maxi length Juniper.
To master sewing knits and to learn more about creating special occasion clothing.
What sewing tip have you learned along the way that you use all the time and why?
Always press your garments in between each step. It makes for a neater and cleaner finish.
What is your biggest sewing achievement or challenge to date? Tell us about it!
My Cinderella gown from Costume Week 2022. The gown had 2 tulle skirts and a top dress made from organza. I mashed together a couple of Peony Patterns and finished it off with hand stitched organza butterflies.
Be patient and kind to yourself. We all started out as beginners. Enjoy your journey and don’t compare yourself to others.