Hi, I'm Ms. AvaI'm a typical New Orleanian: We are multi-talented people who use our talents in a variety of ways to care for ourselves and our community members. Professionally, I am a teacher and adult educator with over 40 years experience. I began my career teaching pre-k through 2nd in New Orleans-area elementary schools and later received my certification to train other early childhood educators. With NOLA Needles, I'm excited to be able to blend my two passions: sewing and teaching.
I use my knowledge of early childhood development and adult learning to create a sewing curriculum tailored to each student's skill level and learning style. We pride ourselves on clear, hands-on instruction in a pleasant, creative atmosphere: It's simply the best way to build skills — and confidence. I look forward to meeting you! Thanks for stopping by NOLA Needles! |
About St. Martin's Workshop
NOLA Needles Sewing Club's parent operation
I offer a broader range of teaching, training, and sewing services under the umbrella of St. Martin's Workshop. As a certified early childhood educator, I have taught in the classroom, trained child care and Head Start staff as well as home-based childcare providers on a contract basis through area community-based agencies, such as Agenda for Children, United Way, and the Archdiocese of New Orleans. I also sew altar linens and vestments, custom garments, and make hats, fascinators, and bridal veils for clients of all types. And as a breast cancer survivor, I'm particularly proud to make cloches for women experiencing post-chemo hair loss.
St. Martin's Workshop bears the name of my patron saint, St. Martin de Porres. His legacy began in in 1579, when he was born in Lima, Peru, to a Spanish nobleman and a freed African slave. He was known for his works of charity on behalf of the poor, gifts of healing, nursing the sick, his barbering skills (as a healer), his respect and for animals and nature, strong faith, and planting hundreds of fruit trees that would be used to feed the hungry.
I believe that St. Martin's life is relevant for current times. His works of charity, love for people, and his faith have inspired me to follow him in the many generous ways he served the people of his community. Martin's many talents and faith have inspired me to bundle my talents to serve my community through training, teaching, sharing the ability to sew, my home-based studio, gardening, and cooking.
I would enjoy sharing my talents with you or your child.
St. Martin's Workshop bears the name of my patron saint, St. Martin de Porres. His legacy began in in 1579, when he was born in Lima, Peru, to a Spanish nobleman and a freed African slave. He was known for his works of charity on behalf of the poor, gifts of healing, nursing the sick, his barbering skills (as a healer), his respect and for animals and nature, strong faith, and planting hundreds of fruit trees that would be used to feed the hungry.
I believe that St. Martin's life is relevant for current times. His works of charity, love for people, and his faith have inspired me to follow him in the many generous ways he served the people of his community. Martin's many talents and faith have inspired me to bundle my talents to serve my community through training, teaching, sharing the ability to sew, my home-based studio, gardening, and cooking.
I would enjoy sharing my talents with you or your child.