Hopping into May with another amazing Influencer Spotlight. Our influencer this month makes some of the coolest dance outfits for her children. She is a kindred spirit with a passion for sewing and helping others learn the craft. Kayla Murphy shares so much joy for not only people but animals too. Enjoy a glimpse into getting to know Kayla just a little bit more!
TSM: I really want to thank you for hanging out with us today.
Kayla M: I am glad to be able to chat with you.
TSM: Let's start off with something unique about you. Is there something that people don't know about you?
Kayla M: My family sold everything in June 2021 to travel, and we still live in our RV on 20 acres.
TSM: You live in an RV? That sounds like an adventure within itself. What sparked the reason for traveling? To see the world?
Kayla M: My husband used to work 10–14 hour days and had a long commute. He has worked remotely since Covid so we took advantage of the flexibility. We've visited 33 different campsites since.
TSM: Which was your favorite?
Kayla M: There's so many! We had the most fun in Salt Springs, Florida.
TSM: This experience with family and time together sounds amazing. Complete bliss.
Kayla M: It has truly been great for us.
TSM: Did you sew while traveling?
Kayla M: Yes!! I sewed full-time and kept my business going while on the road.
TSM: How did you manage sewing with less space?
Kayla M: It was difficult at first and I had to be very strategic with how I stored everything. But I made it work and I was able to store it all under my bed. I had to be more strategic on projects.
TSM: That is cool you were able to keep everything going while traveling. That is pure talent.
Kayla M: Sewing brings me a lot of joy.
TSM: Joy is always good. Speaking of sewing, who do you sew for the most?
Kayla M: Definitely my daughter. I sew pretty much everything she wears.
TSM: Almost everything. I bet that brings a smile to her face every time she gets something new. Does she prefer specific items?
Kayla M: Yes! She prefers Activewear because she's a competitive dancer. I sew her class outfits, leotards, and costumes.
TSM: You sew for her dance class? That is fantastic and a lot of sewing.
Kayla M: Yes, I've created several team items. It's neat to see it all come together on stage.
TSM: I can only imagine watching it come to life through dance. What is your favorite thing to sew?
Kayla M: My absolute favorite thing to sew are dance costumes followed by handbags as a close second.
TSM: You have made some amazing pieces in dance, dresses, and handbags.
Kayla M: That is very sweet, thank you!
TSM: You are welcome.
TSM: What started your sewing venture?
Kayla M: I started sewing almost 7 years ago because my son had very sensitive skin to all diapers. I found sewing groups and started by sewing him cloth diapers.
TSM: Wow! That is a great reason to start sewing. Are you passionate about anything else?
Kayla M: I am passionate about too many things. I love to teach sewing classes and have taught from ages 8-80. I also love raising all the baby animals on our property (chicks, goats, and dogs).
TSM: Teaching classes must be so rewarding. Watching the student learn a skill and come out with a finished item. You have a little farm of animals. How cool is that!
Kayla M: I love that I can share sewing with the world and how rewarding it can be to make your own items. I love that I'm able to share my love of all things with my family and we can live our lives together closely. Sewing gives me that flexibility.
TSM: What is your favorite sewing tool or technique, or quote?
Kayla M: My favorite sewing tool is my projector. I couldn't run my business without it.
TSM: A projector is a great tool and cuts down on time. Talk about time management!
Kayla M: Yes! It speeds things up tremendously.
TSM: Since you use a projector to cut out your sews, what is your current favorite pattern?
Kayla M: My favorite pattern right now is the Hiraeth handbag from Lavender and Twine. It is a PDF pattern that I love. If I had to choose one I use the most with my projector it would be the Styla Valparaiso joggers. I have at least 6 pairs and they are my son's favorite as well.
TSM: What is your favorite print?
Kayla M: My favorite print is Mystic Rose.
TSM: Mystic Rose is a beautiful print. We know you have a passion for sewing, what other hobbies do you have?
Kayla M: I love to serve with my church. We have a food truck that we use to serve a hot plate to at least 80 individuals each week.
TSM: What a blessing being able to help others.
Kayla M: It's eye opening to meet people and learn of all walks of life. I also love all genres of books.
TSM: You love all genres of books, but do you have a favorite? Do you listen to books while sewing?
Kayla M: My favorite genre is suspense, and I love listening to audiobooks while I sew.
TSM: Suspense is great. Trying to figure out who did it before the book ends. I know you volunteer with your church; do you help out any other people?
Kayla M: I sew for a local company called LIVE2540 who sends all of the proceeds from the sale of items to the orphans of Liberia.
TSM: The amount of giving back you do is precious, kind, and so inspiring.
TSM: Earlier you mentioned you own a business, what is the name?
Kayla M: I am glad I have the flexibility to do it.
The AIM Co. Is my business name.
TSM: Is there something you want to make in the future that you haven't had time for or to challenge your sewing skills?
Kayla M: Oh gosh I'm not sure. I would love to tackle making my own luggage.
TSM: Oh, that would be awesome! I can see it now. You are attaching the luggage wheels and taking off to some international destination.
TSM: How can we support you here at TSM?
Kayla M: Everyone at TSM is beyond supportive. Keep posting new patterns!! I've learned so much from the handbag designers. My first bag pattern was the Iolite from The Styled Magnolia and I have been hooked ever since. The designers were so kind to help me through with all my questions.
TSM: The Iolite was your first bag pattern. We would have never known. Thank you so much for sharing that. That pattern was the first for a few.
TSM: Kayla we love being able to see all your beautiful makes. I cannot thank you enough for taking time out of your busy schedule to hang with me for a bit. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Kayla M: It has been so much fun, and I am so glad we were able to do this.
