Colleen & Natalie Sweeney, Native Canadian Clothing & Jewelry Designers, Toronto (Canada)
I was born in Nova Scotia, came to Toronto at the age of 6, started sewing at school at the age of 13, eventually it became my hobby where I was sewing everyday after school. As I got older my sewing became a way of making extra money meanwhile raising four children as a single mother.
After several years of not sewing my daughter suggested that I start back up again, my first project was a Jingle Dress for my 3 year old granddaughter, I was so excited about my work that I now sew in my spare time, again, my latest projects was another Jingle Dress for my granddaughter when she turned 5 years old, Ribbon Shirt for retired Police Officer, Ribbon Skirts for women, Jingle Dresses for children and ribbon shirts for children.
I now sell my products at craft sales, Native Child and Native Canadian Centre of Toronto.
Natalie's Bio:
I am a single mom of 3 children.
At the age of 14 I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) a rare form of cancer in children that age. At the age of 16 I was re-diagnosed with NHL and had to under go countless surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Once in remission I decided I wanted to help raise awareness through my crafts.
In 2010 I attended a prenatal program @ Toronto Council Fire with Tammy bird. There I learned how to make moccasins as well as traditional beading.
I love crafting, it helps keep my mind free and clear.