Really Learning How to Sew
Local Seamstress Teaches Sewing and Beading with Flair
by Jim Evans

Linda Frodesen

Linda Frodesen remembers spending many a day in her grandmother’s one-room apartment, learning how to sew from the time she was just 7 years old.

"I just took to it naturally. I can even remember making outfits the night before school and wearing them the next day," Frodesen said, reflecting on how her grandmother’s "pass-me-down" skills have now materialized into a thriving new business in Ramona.

Frodesen calls her new place Linda’s Accents & LA Designs, where in addition to custom sewing, she teaches beginner classes in both sewing and beading. Mirroring her own youth, Frodesen has special classes for children ages 7 to 11.

"I provide the machine and all of the materials," she said, "and it is a great opportunity for children and adults alike to be creative."

Her shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday by appointment. Classes are ongoing, and Frodesen is teaching 10 students with space for approximately 10 more on a first-come, first-served basis. There also is a special section in her shop for unique fabrics, crafts and handcrafted jewelry.

Cautioning that she is a skilled seamstress — but not a tailor — Frodesen has recently been working with leather creations for the rodeo queens.

"It’s been a challenge working with a different non-traditional materials, but fun," she said.

She urges customers with special needs to call her to discuss their specific projects. "I can’t do everything," she said, "but I can usually figure it out."

Originally from Minnea-polis, Frodesen and her family arrived in Ramona eight years ago in a round-about way via the San Francisco Bay area. "We love horses and wide-open spaces, and Ramona has both," she said. Her husband Fred is retired from the military and now works for the government as a data analyst. Their two daughters — Danielle, 26, a manicurist, and Maureen, 36, an aspiring actress — live in Ramona and Sherman Oaks respectively.

And why did she decide to go into business for herself? "Why not?" Frodesen asked. "I’ve owned a small boutique before anyway, so I’ve always had a certain entrepreneurial spirit. Besides, I absolutely love what I am doing, so what else could I ask for?" Makes sense.

For more information about Linda’s Accents & LA Designs, call (760) 787-1474 or (760) 415-3532 or visit www.lindasaccents.com.