I ADORE this episode, in which I talk to Louisa about making things by hand, including books!

Louisa Owen Sonstroem considers garment-making skills to be deeply empowering. Louisa writes and teaches about patternmaking and hand stitching clothing. For most of a decade, she worked in technical design and patternmaking, most recently for Macy's and Eileen Fisher. Previous projects have included a self-published book called Hand Sewing Clothing: A Guide, as well as two seasons of “Patternmaking in Public Places,” an outreach project she started to democratize access to patternmaking skills. This year, Louisa is celebrating the August release of her newest book, The Handsewn Wardrobe: A Complete Guide to Making Your Own Clothes, from Patternmaking to the Finishing Stitches, in collaboration with Storey Publishing.

https://theclothpurpose.substack.com/

https://www.louisamerry.com/

✏️ Writing in the Junkyard Online Writing Retreat! Join us! http://rachaelherron.com/retreat

🏠 Ink Village! Check it out here: http://rachaelherron.com/inkvillage

(New perks, like editing!)

📕 OUT NOW! The Seven Miracles of Beatrix Holland: http://rachaelherron.com

❤️ Write in Italy May 2026: http://rachaelherron.com/italy2026

🎉 Unstuck is now available here: https://rachaelherronbooks.com/

Ink In Your Veins: How Writers Actually Write (and how you can, too)

Writing doesn't have to be so hard. With internationally bestselling author Rachael Herron, learn how to embrace ease, reject perfectionism, and finally create your perfect writing process. (Formerly known as How Do You Write) Come for inspiration, stay for lots more.

📙 Publish Your Book! https://rachaelherron.com/publish

EXCLUSIVELY FOR WRITERS (join my writer's list):

➡️ How to Know If You’re Writing the Right Book - https://rachaelherron.com/therightbook

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