Hello ladies,
Have you ever wondered how Silent Sewing Academy came to be? Sit back with a cup of tea, and let me take you on a little journey into our history – a journey that began with nothing more than a sewing machine, a spark of creativity, and a desire to empower women.
Back in the day (from the mid-90s to the early 2000s), when I was still bringing up my children, I ran a home-based dressmaking business called Silent Designs. For nearly 10 years, I created bridal gowns, cocktail dresses, and formalwear for a small, exclusive clientele. My sewing machine and I worked countless hours, bringing beauty and confidence to so many women through their dream outfits. But over time, I realised something: while I loved designing, I had a deeper calling.
Many of my clients and friends would tell me, “I wish I knew how to sew like you!” That got me thinking – why not teach them? But where would I begin? How could I create a course that would guide someone with no sewing experience and transform them into a confident sewist?
And so, in 2008, Silent Sewing Academy was born.
The First Stitch
I started small – teaching just one student at a time in my sister’s double garage. My very first course, Learn to Sew in 16 Lessons, was piloted with those early learners. Together, we explored the basics: threading a machine, sewing in straight lines, and creating simple garments.
Soon, word spread, and more ladies joined. They were eager to learn, not just for fun, but to sew for their families, save money, and even explore a new career. Before I knew it, we had outgrown the garage!
Growth, Persistence, and a Vision
The journey wasn’t always smooth. I still laugh about our very first Student Designer Showcase – no one came! But I didn’t let that stop me. I reminded myself: there are girls being born every day, and someday, they might want to learn to sew. Today, that once-empty event is one of Durban’s most-anticipated celebrations of talent and creativity. We hosted our 15th annual graduation and showcase in December 2024.
Over time, the academy has grown, and so has our offering. What began as a single course has evolved into a full syllabus with three modules, short courses, and workshops for every skill level. My notes have been refined, my teaching methods have been polished, and our community has blossomed.
Empowering Women, One Stitch at a Time
At the heart of Silent Sewing Academy is a simple mission: to empower women. Whether you’re a young girl learning your first stitches or a mature woman starting a new chapter, sewing is a skill that uplifts, inspires, and transforms.
Today, we’ve welcomed over 400 ladies into our academy, and many have gone on to achieve remarkable things – starting businesses, designing professionally, or simply finding joy in sewing for their loved ones.
As I reflect on this journey, I feel immense gratitude. To everyone who has been part of our story – thank you. And to those of you considering joining us, let me say this: there’s no better time to start than now.
Hurry!
Limited seats available!
Enrolments open for Module 1
The following classes are being populated to begin in April 2025:
- Saturdays (for 16 weeks)
- Mondays and Wednesdays (for 8 weeks)
- Tuesdays and Thursdays (for 8 weeks)
Reply to this email or WhatsApp me on 074 639 5353 to enquire or enrol.
Yours in creativity,
Mrs. A
Silent Sewing Academy
