Meet Gianna - Instructor and Craft Associate

Gianna joined gather here in September of 2019 and we thought she would be studying abroad in 2020 but then *the pandemic*. Gianna returned part-time in September 2020, cutting fabric, helping out in the studio, and sewing a bunch of tea towel calendars.

When did you start making things?

I’ve been making things ever since I can remember! I’m an only child, and growing up, imagination and creativity were really important to me. I learned to sew (with a machine) in my freshman year of high school (2013?), working on plays in the tiny costume shop, and haven’t stopped since! Along the way, I also picked up crocheting, knitting, embroidery, and art.

What's your favorite thing to make?

I think my favorite thing I’ve made so far is the Making backpack- it was one of the most satisfying things I’ve made, and I use it all the time! Other than that, embroidery has really been growing on me. I’m also hoping to finally launch my Etsy [shop] once I graduate from Tufts this spring!

 

 

What are you looking forward to the most about being a part of the gather here community? (We typically ask this question a lot sooner but you know, we thought Gianna was going abroad for a semester!)

I’ve been part of the team since last fall, until quarantine began, and I’ve been back again since this fall! I definitely missed being surrounded by so many creative and inspiring people (and beautiful fabric and yarn!) while in quarantine.

What's your favorite tool?

Probably a nice, freshly sharpened pair of scissors. I’m also taking a draping class right now, and pounce wheels are fun, too.

What do you do when you aren't making things?

When I’m not crafting (and when I’m not doing schoolwork), you can probably find me writing poetry or working on co-writing my debut novel! It’s a post-apocalyptic sci-fi filled with queer folx of color- aka, what my co-author and I had always wanted to see on shelves growing up. You can also find me taking care of my jungle of houseplants (which are constantly multiplying) and playing board games with friends & fam. 

What has been a source of joy during the pandemic?

Writing my novel and crafting a lot have definitely been sources of joy and fulfillment during the pandemic. Despite how awful the pandemic is and has been, I’m grateful to have had uninterrupted time to spend on my passions.

You can check out Gianna's crafting Instagram @gianna.makes.