'I share my love of making clothes to 70k followers'

Marcia Riddington, a 72-year-old resident of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, has become a well-known figure on Instagram, where she shares her love for sewing with nearly 70,000 followers. Marcia started her Instagram account about eight years ago to showcase her unique creations, which often involve repurposing old fabric into stylish clothing. She describes her growing following as 'utter madness' and is passionate about promoting sustainability through sewing. Marcia believes that clothing should have a story, and she finds joy in transforming flat pieces of fabric into beautiful garments. She enjoys wearing bright, comfortable clothes that make her feel good and happy. Marcia's love for sewing began in her childhood when she had to make her own clothes. She has always been creative and resourceful, and she wants to inspire others to embrace sewing as a way to combat the pressures of fast fashion. Marcia feels that younger generations are often caught up in the cycle of constantly trying to keep up with the latest trends, which can lead to disappointment and waste. She emphasizes the importance of being mindful about spending money and using resources wisely. In her shop, the Smoking Monkey Antiques, Marcia has started selling fabric that people can use for their sewing projects. This initiative allows her to share her passion for sewing with others and encourages them to create their own unique pieces. Marcia's daughter played a significant role in encouraging her to start her Instagram account, and since then, she has connected with many wonderful people who share her interests. Marcia regularly posts pictures of her colorful creations and enjoys the positive feedback she receives from her followers. She describes the experience as fun and only posts when she feels inspired. Initially, her husband was unaware of her Instagram presence, but he eventually discovered it and now helps her by taking photos of her work. Marcia finds it amusing that her husband is a bit surprised by her online popularity, and she herself is still trying to understand how it all happened. In addition to her Instagram success, Marcia's photos have also gained attention on TikTok, where they have trended multiple times. Recently, she and a small group of friends from Instagram decided to collaborate on a new project focused on sustainable clothing made from old fabric. They launched this initiative in October and are excited about the plans they have for the upcoming year. Marcia believes that this project has a bright future and is thrilled to have found a community of like-minded individuals who share her passion for sustainability. She encourages others to use old fabric to create gifts for special occasions, emphasizing that sewing can be a straightforward and enjoyable process. Marcia believes that sewing classes are available across the country, making it accessible for anyone interested in learning. She encourages people to take their time and enjoy the process, as the fabric and style are what truly matter in creating beautiful clothing.