Building The Ruth L. Holley Design Studio

I made a commitment a little over a year ago to the idea of developing the fashion community of Western New York. One of my many goals is to establish a hub for fashion creatives to gain access to the knowledge, equipment, tools, and materials needed to assist in the areas progression. Outside of 2 collegiate programs, and quilting classes held at local sewing supplies shops, nothing like this existed before the Ruth L. Holley Design Studio. Thanks to a tremendous level of support from the community and our relationships, the idea of "The Ruth" has blossomed into the occupancy of 2 studio suites housing industrial-level equipment, a boatload of potential, and a brand new much bigger goal.

Throughout my 3 years of study at Buffalo State College's Fashion & Textile Technology program, I curated countless workshops serving the youth of Buffalo, NY in conjunction with several organizations including the Buffalo Urban League, Young Audiences of Western New York, and PUSH Buffalo, to name a few. Through this experience I have grown to understand the importance of my artform within the community, the desire, and the need for the knowledge to be presented to the extremely creative youth of the area. I can only imagine if I had discovered fashion as a teenager instead of in my mid-twentys. Thankfully, my path has lead me to the idea of founding a space that will serve them, as well as adults looking to enter the industry or further their practices.

Donations will be used to develop a two-story space in the heart of Buffalo, NY, as well as to procure equipment which will be utilized by learners of all levels from Buffalo, the surrounding areas, and visitors from the world over. As it is unbeknownst to some, sewing equipment can get extremely pricey, with some machines requiring an investment of upwards of $5,000. Along with acquisition of creative equipment and supplies like computers, tablets, and cutting tables, we are newly dedicated to the initiative of supplying 1,000 of Buffalo's youth with sewing machines and the knowledge to use them by the year 2030. Our tally currently sits at 3/1,000.

We are also open to direct sponsorship of studio equipment, supplies, tools, and materials for workshops. Please contact us directly for a list of needs and shipping information.