Daily Inspiration: Meet Lisa Chill Gillenwater

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Chill Gillenwater.

Hi Lisa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? 
My best childhood memories are from when I was creating, and for me that usually meant sewing. I don’t remember a time when I didn’t know how to sew. My mom is an incredibly talented hobby seamstress, so it was always fun to sew together. 

I had friends in junior high and high school that rode horses and ice skated; making their competition apparel were my first commissions (with my mom’s help, of course). Growing up, a neighbor had a drapery workroom, I was inspired to learn how it was possible to sew for a living, loved seeing all the different techniques in decor sewing versus apparel sewing. 

After graduating from Northwood University with a degree in Fashion Marketing and Management, I started an online shop selling children’s outerwear that I designed and handmade. That experience lead to local clients wanting custom pieces made for their nurseries. From there started leaning into my love of decor sewing. Now, I have been sewing both apparel and decor professionally for over 15 years. 

I am honored to work with other independent businesswomen. I design and make apparel for Pattie Breen of the Detroit-based Booty Shawl brand. I also work with talented interior designers such Margaret Winter of Margaret Winter Interiors. 

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 feel a strong creative pull in many directions. Choosing what avenues to pursue and which to leave alone will always be a struggle for me. When asked what my favorite thing to sew is, my response is always, “something I’ve never made before.” I am grateful that my projects and commissions vary widely, so I am always challenged. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a seamstress and fabricator. I specialize in sample-making decor sewing, such as drapery, cushions, valances, and cornice boards. 

Sewing as a business is both an art form and a trade. I am most proud of using time-honored techniques in my work. Some of these techniques are unseen in the finished product but make all the difference in its structure, quality, and integrity. 

As a decor seamstress, I am usually part of the entire process. I am often involved in the design, fabric selection, creating patterns, cutting/sewing, and then installing the finished pieces. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Connecting with other women in business has been very beneficial to me. Learning about their businesses and mutually referring each other has been a great way to build a community for my business. Also not being shy to ask for advice or share my experiences is also a benefit to connecting with other independent businesswomen. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.l-chill.com
• Instagram: @lisa_chill_
• Other: www.bootyshawl.etsy.com

Image Credits
Caroline Olsen
Pattie Breen
Margaret Winter Interiors