Curated By You: Tricia Matibag Makes a Flamboyant Matching Linen Set

Kiana Bonollo Bell Inspired Top made with FS MARIGOLD Midweight Linen

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.  

My name is Tricia, some people call me Trish. I’m a first-generation Canadian, now living in America. Currently, I’m in my third year at Harvard Law. Prior to law school, I worked in the tech industry. I’ve always been interested in the concept of innovation both professionally and creatively.

 Why do you sew?

I started sewing in the summer of 2021. I’m very petite, and my first goal was learning to hem pants. Now making clothes is my creative outlet and something that truly brings me joy.

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

My process is chaotic. Most times, I’ll listen to a podcast or watch a tv show. I’ve even finished whole seasons of shows while making a garment. Sewing for me is a solitary activity and I enjoy the background noise of conversation.

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

Home is many places. I was born in the Philippines, grew up in Canada, and now I’m starting my career in America. I’m lucky to have been able to have grown up with more than one culture and bring those influences forward with me.

Kiana Bonollo Bell Inspired Top made with FS MARIGOLD Midweight Linen

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

In elementary school, we read the book “Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes” by Eleanor Coerr. The novel is based on Sadako Sasaki, a victim of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, who was later diagnosed with leukaemia. Inspired by a Japanese legend, Sadako set a goal of folding 1,000 paper cranes to fulfil one wish.

After we finished the novel, the whole class learned how to fold paper cranes. As a young child, I remember how amazing it felt to create something so intricate from a simple piece of paper. I’ve folded many paper cranes since,

Who are your muses and inspiration?

Fabric is my first source of inspiration. I like to browse through different fabric options and imagine them as different garments.

A great tip I’ve seen from other creators is to get inspiration from mediums outside of your own. For me, inspiration can be found anywhere.

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

I started my sewing journey alone. I didn’t really have anyone around me who could sew or teach me how to sew. However, I recently discovered that there is a wonderful online community of sewists and makers.

My practice of sewing is still very solitary, but it has been so wonderful to share my projects and follow the progress of others online. I post most of my sewing progress on Instagram @trish.stich.

Kiana Bonollo Bell Inspired Top made with FS MARIGOLD Midweight Linen

How important is it to make something with your hands?

Creating something tangible in the world is very special. I lose myself in the process of sewing. There is something so satisfying about having an idea and being able to bring it to life in a matter of hours, days, or weeks.

Touching a handmade garment reminds me that my actions exist in the world. I’ve heard people describe the process of making as being able to control this small portion of your life when everything else feels unsteady. For me, this is important.

What does success mean to you?

I still don’t know what “success” looks like for me, and I think that’s okay to say. I wish I had an answer that was somewhat definite. Right now, all I can really say is that I’m working on figuring it out.

FS MARIGOLD Midweight Softened 100% Linen

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

I knew right away that I wanted to make a coordinating set. Usually, my personal style doesn’t fit neatly into one category or aesthetic. However, the consistent element in my wardrobe is matching sets.

When I saw the IL019 MARIGOLD I knew it would be the perfect statement color. I then chose to combine it with natural linen that wouldn’t compete for attention.

The top is based on a Kiana Bonollo Bell Sleeve Dress Pattern and the pants are Closet Core Pietras. I really wanted to “design” the set in my own way and decided a rectangle cutout for the top would be a nice touch. The color-blocked pockets on the pants are meant to tie the set together without taking away from the top.

Overall, the set is a bit out there, but I like it that way.