How Worker Bee Came to Be . . .

Worker Bee Sewing Company is a small, in-home sewing and crafting business located in beautiful Berea, KY.

The business began unintentionally when my husband bought me a sewing machine on Valentine’s Day several years ago as a stress release from caregiving. At the time, I was helping my aging and ill parents, and learning to sew became a way to escape and forget about the worries around me. I taught myself to sew by watching online tutorials and through trial and error, which led to making gifts for friends and family. As my creations accumulated, people started requesting them. Due to my constant work and love for bees, I chose the name "Worker Bee" for my business.

In 2018, I discovered machine embroidery and began specializing in doll-making. Each doll has a unique personality that I enjoy bringing to life. My inspiration comes from folk art, contemporary role models, and historical characters. I think about constructing them in two dimensions using sewing and machine embroidery patterns that suit their body type. I purchase detailed patterns and often combine them to create a one-of-a-kind design. I use computer software to format and stitch the designs using the in-the-hoop machine embroidery method. I partially assemble them in a sewing machine and hand-sew the dolls closed before stuffing them with polyfill. Sometimes, I add character-appropriate accessories like shoes, hats, or simple clothes. My goal is to keep the body structure simple while adding unique features. I've been incorporating specialty threads such as metallic or glow-in-the-dark threads.

With a background in Early and Elementary Education, I am passionate about creating dolls that can inspire and accompany a book to teach a lesson. I also make custom dolls and animals using client-provided garments of personal significance, which help preserve memories and provide comfort. My aim is to deliver high-quality, handmade heirlooms that a family will cherish for generations. I hope you enjoy my creations. They are made to 'bee' loved.

Teresa Webb
Maker