Hello! My name is Melissa Peda. I am an autodidact, book lover, coffee fiend, seamstress, crafter, quilter, designer, etc. who finds meaning and purpose in the Creative Life. My goal is to share my enthusiasm and encourage you to create.
At the age of 12, I sat down and began teaching myself to sew. It was trial and error with only the pattern instructions and my own sense of adventure to guide me. Eventually, I was sewing for hire–everything from garments to bridal gowns to home decor. Today, I sew few garments focusing instead on lifestyle products and quilts. But my love of fabric and sewing means that everything is fair game.
Embroidery and crochet also find their place. The rhythms of handwork provide the right environment for reflection and meditation. Of course, the colorful projects themselves complement the many handmade pieces around my home. I’m a firm believer in surrounding yourself with things you love, especially if they are handmade.
My patterns reflect this belief. When I design them, I try to keep things simple with clean lines. Beginner sewists find something they can be confident of completing. Intermediate to advanced sewists find projects they can make quickly and easily without sacrificing style. Whether through quilting, beading, painting or needlework, adding your own touch is easy. Tailor the embellishments to suit your own style and keep the items out where you can see and enjoy them.
For years I left the creative side of myself behind while I worked in the business world. I know what that drudgery does to a creative soul. Perhaps I’m making up for all those lost years. Or maybe all this creative craziness was there all along, waiting for a chance to get out. It doesn’t really matter. Because this is where I’m at right now, in this moment.
And this moment…it’s not about me. Not really. It’s about you, all of you. If I can help one person try something new, something they never had confidence to try in the past; if I can spark that “Aha!” moment, when the world suddenly opens up and someone gets “it”; if I can provide tools for someone to start out on their own creative journey, that is success. That is what I’m all about.
My hope is that you will find a safe, nurturing environment here at 100 Billion Stars, a place where you feel comfortable and at home. You are always welcome here.