Worker Bee Sewing Company is a small, in-home sewing and crafting business located in beautiful Berea, KY.

It all started very humbly and by accident. My husband bought me a sewing machine on Valentine’s Day several years ago because I needed a stress release from caregiving. I was helping my aging and ill parents, and learning something fun was a way to get lost in my own world and forget about the worries around me. I learned to sew by watching online tutorials and through trial and error (lots of errors!), which led to making gifts for friends and family. One machine led to another, and soon I was making more than I could store. People began requesting items. Laura, my daughter, helped me form an Etsy account and list, photograph, describe, and mail orders. Because I am always working like a busy bee, and because I truly love bees, we decided on the Worker Bee name. Fabric is my nectar. I’m addicted to it!

In 2018, I discovered machine embroidery and I began specializing in doll-making. Each doll has a special personality that I love bringing to life. Folk art, contemporary role models, and characters from history all inspire my process. I think about how I can construct them in two dimensions using sewing and machine embroidery patterns that relate to their body type. My daughter and I choose fabrics for their skin tone and clothing that best represent their image. The patterns I purchase are very detailed and are often combined to produce a unique one of-a-kind design. I use a computer software program to format and then stitch out using the in-the-hoop machine embroidery method and partially assemble them in a sewing machine. I hand-sew my dolls closed and, after turning right side out, stuff them with polyfill. Sometimes character-appropriate accessories, such as shoes, hats, or simple clothes, are added. My goal is to keep the body structure simple but add unique features. Recently, I have integrated specialty threads such as metallic or glow-in-the-dark.

My background is in Early and Elementary Education, so I am passionate about making dolls that inspire and/or can be accompanied with a book to teach a lesson. I also make custom dolls and animals using client-provided garments of personal significance, which preserve memories and provide comfort. Additionally, I combine free-motion quilting, applique, and embroidery to make wall hangings, table runners, pillows and other home decor. My purpose is to provide a quality, handmade heirloom that will be cherished for generations.