Meet Catherine Dirks of The Sarcastic Seamstress

Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Dirks.

Hi Catherine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was always interested in sewing, but quilting wasn’t for me. After finding a random group on Facebook and seeing people make their clothes, I decided to buy a serger and start making clothes, mainly tops, but I’ve slowly been trying other things. Then, through other websites, I saw people making gorgeous bags and very slowly talked myself into making and selling them because I love the challenges they bring, especially when I try a new pattern.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I certainly can’t say it’s all been roses. I’m not the most outgoing person, so putting myself and my products out there takes a lot from me. I have been trying harder to get myself out to vendor events. However, I’m still trying to find the best place to reach my target market. Online marketing is also a struggle for me; I feel like some things must be seen to be appreciated because pictures can only do so much.

Great, so let’s get down to business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
It’s simple. I sew pretty things. While I’ve mainly been focusing on bag making, I hope to one day offer a small line of vintage-inspired clothing. The items I’m most known for are the Beer Mitts I made a few years ago. They were sold at a small local store that is now closed. I made them because they made me laugh, and I never thought they would sell out multiple times. My most recent product that has been popular is the Water Bottle Sling. I started making it because it was so useful, but I also wanted to encourage people to get outside, and it is perfect for things like going to the zoo. Ultimately, I’m just a small business that is continually trying to learn and shift as needed while trying to be true to the heart of what I am. I want to make pretty things, and if the things I make bring me joy, they will hopefully do the same for others.

We could end by discussing what matters most to you and why.
Authenticity. I have never been one to fit into a box and am not willing to change who I am to fit into the world. If I can’t accept myself, then I can’t accept others. And being your authentic self is one of the most beautiful things.

Contact Info:

• Website: sarcasticsews.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarcasticsews/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarcasticsews

Image Credits
Photos: Catherine Dirks, Models: Heather Hale and Reina Martinez