Marlborough Sewing Expert Wins Public Television Award

MARLBOROUGH, MA — A Marlborough sewing blogger was one of 16 people from around the U.S. who were honored in the American Public Television Create Crafts Challenge 2020. Sandi Barrett submitted a video to the contest instructing public television viewers how to choose the proper fabric for a knit dress.

The contest awarded top prizes to two winners, but also recognized 16 entrants from across the country. Barrett's video (view above) came in 10th place overall.

Here's more about Barrett from a WGBH press release:

“I am a sewist, sewing instructor, and sewing blogger. I teach men and women how to make custom garments that fit so they can look great in fashionable clothes that fit well. Ultimately, my goal is to teach individuals how to create garments that have a high-end, fashionable look.”

About Barrett’s crafting experience: “I have been sewing for over 50 years. I have been teaching garment sewing for over ten years. Additionally, I create and craft garments for myself, my family, and clients.”

Why Barrett entered the Create Crafts Challenge: “I recently left my corporate job to be a full-time creator. I am a writer, blogger, vlogger, and teacher. I entered the challenge to further my reach, engage new students, and up my video game.”

Some of America’s iconic television crafts experts judged the Create Crafts Challenge, including Julie Fei-Fan Balzer (Make It Artsy), Eric Gorges (A Craftsman’s Legacy), Scott Phillips (The American Woodshop), Peggy Sagers (Fit2Stitch), and Lena Skvagerson (Knit and Crochet Now!) , joined by APT president and CEO Cynthia Fenneman. Despite the limitations created by COVID-19, nearly 100 entrants submitted an original video of three minutes or less featuring their best crafts project, idea or tip. The judges’ panel scored the submissions based on each entrant’s demonstrated knowledge, skills and familiarity with their chosen craft, ability to present ideas succinctly, overall telegenic appeal, uniqueness, and, production values.