Curated By You: Nastasia Morris Makes A Linen Romper From A 90’s Retro Pattern

“At some point in life the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint, or even remember it. It is enough.”
Toni Morrison

There is a quiet, gentle determination wrapped up in beauty of the present, amongst her children and husband, that resides in the aura of Nastasia Morris. In her, gratitude for the everyday shows not in bold statements but in an underlying daily balance. Creativity weaving its way through Nastasia’s life in a golden thread of dance, her four children and the way she’s able to embrace and harmonize her craft and love for sewing. I am deeply in awe of women able to stay both gentle and soft whilst exuding strength, which is why I am thrilled to finally share this interview with you.

Nastasia is wearing a linen romper from a 90’s retro pattern made with FS NINE IRON Mid Weight Linen / Photo by Stefan Newman

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.

I am a mother to three daughters and one son. My days pretty much revolve around them, as my oldest is seven and my youngest just turned one. In addition to juggling four young wonderful children, I have a small business selling my handmade clothing and accessories. I picked up sewing as an adult, but I grew up dancing and still teach dance part time. My daughters also dance now and they enjoy spending time with me in my sewing room. They help pick out fabrics, choose styles, and recently started sewing by themselves on their own little machine.

Why do you sew?

Sewing is a creative and artistic outlet for me. It allows me to have some much needed alone time. I love the end result when my children and others get to enjoy my handmade pieces.

Photo by Nicole Hernandez

What do you like to listen to when you’re working (and why)?

I usually listen to music. My family is in the music industry, so I grew up having a great appreciation and love for music. I enjoy a lot of types, but lately have been listening to R&B. Music helps me get into my zone.

Where is home and how does it affect what you do?

My husband and I are both from Las Vegas, Nevada. We are happy to now be raising our own children here. Although many people may only know the Las Vegas strip, there are wonderful, supportive, family communities here. We are also incredibly lucky to be in a city where so many amazing musicians, dancers, artists, chefs, etc. come to share their talents. It is inspiring.

How do you balance motherhood and the importance of staying creative?

Balancing motherhood and the importance of staying creative can feel like a difficult task. It is hard to not feel guilty, but I think it is important to put some time aside for myself to be creative. Being creative feeds my soul, and then I am better able to fulfill my role as a mother. I think it is good for my children to see me being creative and to know that they can be a mother and enjoy doing other things as well. The time I spend sewing has ebbed and flowed throughout the years. No matter what though, I always have ideas brewing.

Photo by Stefan Newman

Name a book that you’ve recently read which inspired you and why?

I try to consistently read passages from The Bible and The Book of Mormon. They give me inspiration and perspective on life. I have been listening to podcasts a lot now, as I can get things done around the house while listening. I enjoy true crime, history, and spirituality. I have a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism, so I also really enjoy documentaries. Through these mediums I am inspired to find my true self and to find peace.

What was the first thing you ever remember making on your own? Tell us about this memory.

One of the first things I remember making on my own was an apron for my mother. I found some directions and I went to my aunt’s house to use her sewing machine. I didn’t know hardly anything about sewing, and definitely did not know how to thread or use a sewing machine. I remember messing up the straps and having to re-make them. Somehow, with the help of my aunt, I ended up with somewhat of an apron. I took my first formal sewing class while in college and from then on I was hooked.

Photo by Nicole Hernandez

Who are your muses and inspiration?

I am inspired by my children. I find so much inspiration in their pure creativity. All four of them are so unique and special. They inspire me to be better and to continue to enjoy what I do.

Do you have a community of crafters/ makers around you or do you find you are on your own?

About 3 years ago I sold at a local handmade marketplace and during that experience met other local makers. Since then I have continued to meet local makers and have enjoyed connecting with them at markets and pop-ups. It is really nice to talk to others who are juggling motherhood and a side business. Feeling support from local makers around me has meant so much to me. They inspire and encourage me to keep doing what I’m doing and have become my friends.

Photo by Nicole Hernandez

How important is it to make something with your hands?

In a day when so much of what we buy is massed produced by machines, it means so much to me to make something with my hands. Many people are surprised and impressed when I tell them that I have made certain pieces of clothing. I think sometimes there can be a sort of negative connotation when something is homemade or handmade, people think that it can’t look professional. With my personality I obsess to get everything as perfect as can be. The pieces I sew look professional, but they won’t ever be completely identical. And that’s what makes them special. I am proud to present my work and so happy to tell people, “Yes, I made that”. Each piece has a story and meaning. My heart completely melts when my daughters thank me for sewing something for them and when they tell me how much they love it.

What does success mean to you?

I used to think success was something to be had in the future. But now I have come to recognize that there is success in today and in the now. I feel success when I enjoy the current moments, am grateful, and am present. I still look forward to the future and remember the past, but for me, finding happiness in and appreciation for what is happening in my life right now is success.

Nastasia is wearing a linen romper from a 90’s retro pattern made with FS NINE IRON Mid Weight Linen / Photo by Stefan Newman

What have you chosen to make out of FS linen and why?

Over the years I have loved using FS linen to make ring slings, pillow covers, and clothing. This time I chose to make a linen romper from a 90’s retro pattern. I love sewing vintage patterns for my girls and I had fun sewing something for myself. I grew up in the 90’s, so this style of romper is very nostalgic for me. It’s a roomy silhouette that can be cinched at the waist with the tie. This romper is very versatile and comfortable for my mom life. Linen is perfect for Las Vegas where it stays hot/warm most of the year. I chose IL019 Nine Iron Softened. It is a gorgeous color and sews up beautifully.