Conversations with Kyla Hendricks

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyla Hendricks

Hi Kyla, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was inspired to start sewing by my great-grandmother at an early age. My Great-grandma, Hazel Taylor was a wonderful seamstress and quilt maker. I did some hand sewing in my early years but graduated to a sewing machine by age 11. My first garment that I made, with a sewing machine, was a faux fur coat for my Barbie! I had no clue how to feed the top thread or bobbin thread through the machine. I didn’t know how to measure the Barbie doll properly (much less a real human!). Somehow, I figured it out and pulled off a full-length coat with a hood and scarf attached. I still have it to this day. Four decades later, I still love sewing as much as when I made my first garment. Therefore, I feel it’s in my DNA.

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?
In my early years of sewing, I faced doubt with attempting techniques that appeared too hard and avoided working with “difficult” fabrics. I worked with natural fibers and simplistic designs for a long time. Once I felt comfortable, I moved on to sewing patterns that were marked, “advanced” and started making my own designs. I believe it also helped, that I worked at the now defunct Hancock Fabrics (formerly Minnesota Fabrics) and Jo-Ann Fabrics while I was in college. I was surrounded by older ladies who had years of experience. I was introduced to techniques like smocking, French seams, inverted pleats, lettuce hem, etc. While at Jo-Ann Fabrics, I worked primarily in the Home Decorating department. I was introduced to different window dressing styles and became accustomed to working with long lengths of fabrics. Now, I feel like I can make anything without hesitation!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
By day, I work as a Commercial Lines Associate Underwriter. Creativity is my outlet. My journey in sewing and crafting has led me to share my work/tutorials through social media. This year, I started a YouTube channel, Instagram and website dedicated to sewing. I cover how to make garments, home decorating and handbag making for different levels of sewists. So, I’m just getting started in this social arena! I have so many items that I’m proud of making for different reasons that it’s hard to narrow it down to just one. I’d say that the personal items made for relatives and upcycling garments of deceased relative for others have really made me proud. Seeing the joy on their faces is priceless. What sets me apart from others is that you never know where I pull my inspiration from for a garment. It can be the most unsuspecting source. I like the element of surprise!

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Patience
Attention to detail
Being a realistic person
Time management
Problem-solving
Relatability
Analytical
Caring

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.creativefleau.com
• Instagram: @creativefleau
• Facebook: Kouture by Kyla
• Youtube: @creativefleau
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/creativefleau/