I started teaching sewing in 1973, when I was 30 years old. I started my own sewing school in San Francisco, which I promoted by writing a weekly sewing column, which was quickly syndicated, giving me national exposure. In 1987, HGTV hired me to host my own TV show called Sew Perfect, which ran for 6 years, with over 200 shows. The internet was taking off so I decided to co-host a show called Power Sewing with Canadian sewing wizard, Ron Collins. We filmed 252 shows which are now available free on YouTube.

From 2002 to 2023, I designed a line of patterns called Today’s Fit for Vogue Patterns with a whole new sizing system, based on the modern woman’s body. During that time, I also filmed 4 classes for Craftsy: Pants that Fit, Pant Construction, Sewing on the Bias and a must see for anyone who sews: Sewing with your Favorite Fabrics, a visual of my best selling book MORE FABRIC SAVVY.

In my 50 year career, I taught all over the United States, Canada and Australia. I also wrote 8 sewing books. I think the reason I was so successful is that I never met anyone who loved fashion or sewing more than me. I retired at 80 years old, still love to sew but have added a few more addictive hobbies, like reading and cooking.