FAQ'S

What are your recommendations for choosing a waist bead? Choose your waist beads by your favorite color or if you like each bead color can hold a special meaning to you. Therefore, creating a more holistic way to balance out your energy. 

What's the history of waist beads? Waist beads are traditionally an African tradition of women or girls wearing small beads (seed beads) around their waist, however; they are worn in many places around the world. They are commonly worn by people in certain parts of Africa, such as Ghana. Some women wear them from childhood to adulthood. Waist beads are more commonly used by adult women to manage their weight, the beads can be tied on permanently, therefore indicating when weight is being gained or lost. Waist beads also represent femininity, many women use them as a tool to feel more feminine and beautiful. They have been worn for centuries for varying reasons by royalty for body adornment, sensuality and decoration.

Do the waist beads stay on? Yes, they tie on with cotton strings. This allows you to keep them on permanently, even in the bath.

Are they comfortable? Yes, but they take some time to get used to having on. They are easy to wear under clothing and you can shower and sleep with them on.

Are these authentic African waist beads? Yes! They are handmade in Ghana. 

How long are the waist beads? Length: 40 inches, One size fits all with a custom fit that you create.

How do I tie my waist beads on at home? Follow the steps below to tie on your waist beads permanently until you decide to cut them off.

1. Decide where you want to place your waist beads (waist, belly, hip) 
2. The tie on waist beads have extra string left on to allow you to tie them on.
3.  Wrap the beads around your belly, and Remove/slip off any additional excess beads.
4.  Tie at least 2 knots, making sure there are no gaps between the waist beads.
5.  Cut off the excess string.

Do they have color meanings? Yes, we believe in associating color meanings to your beads to add to your self development and goal setting. Please reference our color meaning chart below.

 

SEW READY CHICAGO:

How do I schedule our session? After registration, you are given access to our calendar to schedule your lesson(s). Please only book time slots for the amount of time you paid for. 

What is Sew Ready 101? We make learning to sew a fun and inspiring experience, as we take you step by step through the fundamentals of using your sewing machine. At the end of this class, you will feel confident in knowing how to use your machine and create a straight stitch! 

How do you define strong knowledge of using a sewing machine? You know how to thread your machine (top thread & bobbin) and sew a straight stitch.

How long will my project take to complete?  Most projects will require at least 2-3 hours of time to complete. This is dependent but not limited to your project, skill level, comprehension, speed and familiarity of operating a sewing machine. During your Consultation, we will discuss your readiness for each project. 

Do have a list of recommended projects, I don't know what I want to sew? Yes, our most popular sewing projects are: pillows, tote bags, table runners, pajama bottoms and table coasters. We can also give recommendations during your consultation.

Do you provide sewing machines? Students are required to purchase all supplies. Sewing machine rental is available, however; we recommend bringing your own machine. Click here to reserve your sewing machine. 

Is my instructor BIPOC? Yes, classes are currently instructed by our CEO, Lecretia. She identifies a woman of African descent.