Sheila Moore sporting one of her denim creations. Since retiring, she has taught others to enjoy crafting with denim clothing. Courtesy photo
Crafting Creativity, Connection, and Confidence Through Fiber Arts
By TNCPNEWS
Sheila Moore has always had a flair for the creative, a passion rooted in her early teenage years. By the time she was thirteen, her garment construction and alterations skills had already begun to blossom, setting the stage for a lifetime of artistic expression. After a fulfilling career with the State of Michigan, Moore embraced retirement in 2018 as an opportunity to weave a new narrative centered around fiber arts and rediscovering the joy of doing what she loves.
Transitioning from traditional sewing to innovative fabric embellishment, Moore enjoyed combining her mastery of textiles with artistic design. Her retirement has been a journey of rediscovery and growth, where paint, fabric markers, stencils, and gel plate printing breathe life into her creations.
“For me, it’s an intuitive practice,” Moore said. “Often, the hardest part is starting.”
For Moore, retirement is no longer just about slowing down but about looking forward to the beauty of each creative project, one inspiring step at a time. Watching others create brings her plenty of joy.
Teaching the Next Generation
In 2022, Moore’s passion for sewing evolved into a calling to teach others. As a teaching artist at REACH Studio Art Center, she now introduces children and adults to the fundamentals of sewing. Her classes emphasize more than just the technical aspects of sewing—they foster confidence and creativity in her students.
“I encourage students to be willing to try,” she explains. “Although I can’t really draw, I create images from stencils and tracing. It’s about exploring colors and textures and silencing the perfectionist demon!”
Moore’s approachable style and message of self-acceptance have made her classes a favorite among participants.
She showcased her talent and passion for sustainable fashion during the Refashion Fashion Show at the annual Scrapfest event in the summer 2024. Four of Moore’s stunning outfits were featured on the runway along with creations by two of her young students from a REACH class she taught in June. Her work highlighted the art of upcycling and the power of creativity, leaving the audience inspired by her innovative designs and teaching impact.
Glam Up: Creative Gatherings That Inspire
Driven by a love for bringing people together, Moore began hosting events called Glam Up, where participants refashion clothing items like jeans, hoodies, and t-shirts. Using tools such as paints, markers, rhinestones, and pearls, attendees transform ordinary garments into wearable works of art.
Glam Up sessions are more than just workshops—they’re vibrant gatherings filled with music, food, and fellowship.
“Everyone who has participated loves the experience,” Moore shares. “They appreciate the relaxation, the sharing of ideas, and the sense of community.”
Her goal is simple but profound: to help participants relax, express themselves, and embrace imperfection. “Relax, enjoy, and silence the perfectionist demon,” she reminds attendees, creating a welcoming space for seasoned artists and curious beginners.
Finding Joy in Retirement
Retirement has been the perfect time for Moore to turn her passion into a way of life.
“Doing what you love after retirement makes looking forward to each day more beautiful,” she says.
Her fiber arts work fills her days with purpose and inspires others to explore their creativity. Through sewing instruction, fabric embellishment, and community events, Sheila proves that retirement is not an end—it’s the beginning of a chapter filled with excitement, fulfillment, and new possibilities.
A Creative Start to the New Year
The workshops and Glam Up events she offers are the perfect opportunity to try something new as the New Year begins. If you’re looking for a way to relax, connect, and unleash your creativity, this is it. These gatherings are also a fantastic way to upcycle clothing, contributing to a more creatively sustainable life. By turning old garments into wearable art, participants reduce waste and express themselves in unique and inspiring ways.
A Legacy of Connection
Moore’s dedication to fostering creativity extends beyond her workshops. As a wife to Rush Moore, Jr., mother to two daughters, and grandmother to three, she brings the same sense of care and connection to her family. Her ability to inspire and uplift others is woven into every aspect of her life. She finds endless inspiration in platforms like Pinterest and Facebook groups, where she explores new techniques and trends. Her intuitive approach and willingness to experiment remind us all that creativity is a journey, not a destination.
Whether she’s teaching the basics of sewing, embellishing a piece of fabric, or hosting a Glam Up event, Moore is not just crafting art—she’s crafting a community of confidence, connection, and joy. As we enter a new year, her work reminds us that life is richer when we fill it with the passions that make us come alive—and maybe, just maybe, refashioning a garment or two along the way.
For more information about upcoming programs, contact her at 517-980-3497.
