Hi, I'm Margaret. I grew up inChicago, lived in the SF Bay Area for several years, and have lived in my house since the early 80s. My sewing studio was once my son’s bed room; he’s 21 now. :)
I’ve been sewing since I was a little girl. My grandmother sewed frilly dresses and pinafores for me, which made me feel very loved and special. One day she yielded to my nagging and handed me needles and thread and a few scraps of fabric to make things for my dolls. In college, where I majored in art, I used to relax by making fabulous outfits for Barbie dolls.
Of course when my daughters came along, I made frilly, elaborate dresses for them. Smocking, embroidery, ribbons, lace, velveteen—I had a ball. I even commercially produced a small line of children’s clothing line for a few years. But of courseChinadoes most everyday sewing for us now, and my daughters are young women who naturally prefer dressing from the Gap or Abercrombie and Fitch. What’s a seamstress to do?
I met my partner, Angie, 4 years ago, and it didn’t take long for me to discover that one of the best ways to put a huge smile on her face and a sparkle in her eye is to sew something scrumptious especially for her. I love to use my skills to make people feel beautiful and special. I do occasionally manage to sneak in some sewing for myself, though I have to confess that new frocks don’t work quite the same magic on me. :)
I am excited to be able to offer my services to you all, and to being part of the Over the Rainbow family! :) I look forward to altering that favorite outfit so you can finally enjoy it, or to making you something new, just for you!!
Margaret
Jumper dress and blouse
Jumper dress
Ruffle blouse
Items and prices
Jumper dress, $90. Available in a variety of authentic school plaids with matching cross ties ($7), or choose a pretty print or gingham. Designed to be worn with a blouse (see below) or polo shirt. Fully washable; pleats must be ironed.
White pouf-sleeved ruffle blouse, $45. A great basic separate to wear with a jumper or skirt. Fully washable.
Satin Maid's Uniform, $120 Beautiful, full skirted, satin maid's uniform with apron. All edges are done in handmade ruffles.
Pinafore, $95. This is a sweet addition to many dress styles. Depending on the dress it's paired with, it can lend a fancy “upstairs maid” look. Fully washable.
Custom steel-boned, coutil-lined corset, $250 and up. These sturdy corsets are the real deal, and you can expect a waist reduction of at least 2 inches. Some can be used for waist training. Dry clean only.
Sissy dress, $105 and up. Think $105 for a ruffly, full-skirted basic to $300 for the satin and organdy confection pictured here. Some are washable; others must be dry cleaned or washed by hand.
Maid's uniform
Sissy dresses
Hours
Open availability Tuesday-Friday noon to 4 PM, other times by appointment.