About Sweet October

Hello and welcome! I'm Brandi: the only human behind Sweet October. I learned how to sew about 20 years ago in a high school sewing class. After making a Valentine apron and a silver sequined, one-strap club top (of questionable quality), I set aside my *masterful sewing expertise* until 2011, when I was inspired to make some drawstring bags for my wedding reception. I dusted off my inexpensive machine, made some quick little bags, and have been sewing regularly ever since.

 

 

The process of pairing fabrics, hardware, and zippers to create a specific aesthetic brings me so much joy. I also love hunting for vintage Halloween fabrics, mostly from the '70s, '80s, and '90s. These fabrics are out of print, hard-to-find, and often feature quirky illustrations that I adore. (Originally drawn by humans, not computers.) Repurposing vintage bed sheets, curtain panels, and tablecloths into unique bags is also something I love. Sourcing these materials and turning them into useful items, means they get to live a new life instead of being thrown out. In addition to quilting cotton (my favorites being from Ruby Star Society), I also create accessories using duck canvas, corduroy, cotton linen canvas, flannel, nylon, and vinyl.

 

       

 

I'm always eager to learn new sewing techniques, and will continue to create fun accessories, handmade with the quality, care, and uniqueness that cannot be found in a factory assembly line. At Sweet October, you're getting small-batch, one-of-a-kind items, handmade by a real person--no AI to be found here! Everything in my shop is sewn by me on a Juki TL-2010Q, surrounded by colorful materials and Halloween ambiance.

 

 

     

I also plan to write occasional blog posts about things I'm making or designing, as well as other happenings in my life. If you're curious about how I got here, check out my first blog post, which explains why I am no longer on social media, and why I've chosen to blog here instead. I hope you'll say hello, and sign up for occasional (non-spammy) emails. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, comments, or concerns. Thank you so much for reading, and most importantly, for supporting handmade!