About Us...
My name is Toni. I am the owner, designer, seamstress, embroiderer and shipping agent for Lea Cottage.
I have been an avid sewer since 7th grade. Previous to that, my grandmother taught me the basics. I would help her every chance I could. In doing my genealogy, I’ve discovered that I come from a long line of professional dressmakers (at least that’s their occupation in the census reports) – long before the days of “off the rack”.
I have honed my skills over decades of practice. As a single mother, I made almost everything by hand – clothes, sweaters, curtains, pillows, quilts… I did a lot of hand embroidery and cross-stitch to add a little ‘something’ to the things I made.
I was fortunate enough to be able to take a series of courses to become a sewing instructor. Along that journey, I learned so much – not just about sewing as I picked up a number of techniques new to me.
Most importantly, I learned that I was really good at what I do and gained a self-confidence I’d never had before.
Long story short, I was able to buy my first embroidery sewing machine and I was hooked. I took the mundane and added my own personal touches. My friends asked if I could make them something and it has progressed to today with this business.
Recently, for a friend, I made a nautically-inspired pillow with the name of their sailboat on it. There was a lot of interest from the folks in their marina for customized pillows and other articles for use on their sailboats. That was the birth of Lea Cottage. A shout-out to Sharon for giving me to confidence to move forward.
At Lea Cottage, my products are not mass-produced and are made with quality fabrics, notions, embroidery and pride. A few generic products are available or we can work together to create a special order made just for you.
I would love to help you add a personal touch to your little corner of the world … something YOU-nique!
Let me make something for you today!
Fione, my Silent Partner (most of the time)
