
Why Missing Out Was the Best Thing That Happened To Me
Custom Curtains,Custom Window Valances,Inspiration,Interior Decor,The Stitch That Taught Me,Window Treatments
Welcome to the next lesson from: The Stitch That Taught Me—
real stories from my sewing workroom and business journey that take you beyond the pretty finishes to the true lessons I’ve learned in 38 years of creative workroom life. Each one taught me something worth passing on. I’m Donna Cash, and I’m glad you’re here.
Why Missing Out Was the Best Thing That Happened to Me
Several years ago, I had my heart set on a project I wasn’t awarded. I was excited about the fabrics and trims we had selected, the styles we had envisioned, and how the finished treatments would bring joy and beauty into this new potential client’s home. I could see it all so clearly in my mind.
When the project didn’t come through, I was disappointed. I felt like I was missing out on a great opportunity. I shared my feelings with my husband, and his wise words have stayed with me ever since. He said, “Donna, maybe God has something better for you to work on during that time frame.”
And he was right. Soon after, several other opportunities arose—projects that enabled me to touch many more lives with beauty and joy. Opportunities I would have missed had I been tied up with the original project.
That’s when I turned FOMO around to: JOMO—the Joy of Missing Out.
So here’s The Stitch That Taught Me:
Let me share why Missing Out Was The Best Thing that Happened to Me. Missing out on one thing made room for something even better. It was a gentle reminder that FOMO doesn’t have to be a bad thing—it can actually make space for the right opportunities that align with joy and fulfillment.
What about you? Can you think of a time you missed out on something, but it turned into a blessing in disguise? How did JOMO show up in your life?
Are you looking for ways to save time while you create?
I have something for you!
I’ve designed a free resource to help busy makers like yourself organize their time and increase efficiency.
Fill out the form to grab yours now!
This can be a great time to rest and trust the process, re-evaluating your strategies and goals.

Ready to Grow Your Sewing Skills?
If you’re ready to build your confidence, sew more efficiently, and bring more beauty into your work—I’m here to help.
As a part of my community, I often share tips that have helped me improve my workflow. One such tip is to create a project timeline for each job, breaking it down into manageable tasks. This not only keeps me organized but also provides a clear visual of my progress, helping to avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Creating a timeline also requires you to rest and trust the process in your work.
Where we turn sewing mistakes into mastery—and sewing into joy.
Do you have a question, or would you like to share your own “mistake turned lesson”?
I encourage fellow makers to share their experiences, whether it’s a mistake that led to a breakthrough or a lesson learned from a challenging project. Each story contributes to our collective knowledge and can inspire others to embrace their unique creative journeys.

Want to build your confidence and skills in soft furnishings and home decor sewing?
That’s what I’m here for. Keep up to date on what I’m doing by following me on Instagram
Don’t miss out!
I’d like to invite you to join my facebook group, Donna’s Sew Creative & Healthy DIY:Pillows & More
Creative inspiration for unique designs
Wellness & productivity tips for sewists
A supportive, positive, and fun community!

Stay tuned for the next post of The Stitch That Taught Me, where we’ll dive into more real stories from my sewing workroom and creative business journey that take you beyond the pretty finishes and the proper lessons I’ve learned in over 38 years of creative workroom life.
If this post has given you insight or encouragement, please share it with others.
If you’re not on my email list, be sure to fill out the form on this page so you won’t miss another true story from the heart of the workroom.
Until next time –
keep learning,
keep stitching.
As you keep learning, remember to rest and trust the process.
Sending you all my best,
Donna Cash
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Meet Donna Cash – Your Trusted Sewing Mentor & Creative Guide
Donna Cash is the founder of Designs by Donna, an award-winning drapery and soft furnishings studio known for its exquisite custom pillows, bedding, drapery, and detailed embellishments. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, Donna brings a rare blend of technical expertise, artistic flair, and warm encouragement to every maker she mentors.
A passionate educator, speaker, and industry leader, Donna has trained hundreds of DIYers and professionals alike, helping them master professional techniques while cultivating a calm, joyful, and balanced approach to their craft. Whether you're just beginning your sewing journey or running a workroom business, Donna is here to help you grow with confidence.
Through her blog, video tutorials, and vibrant online membership community, she shares time-saving strategies, fabric insights, and real-world solutions that make high-quality results feel achievable—and enjoyable. Donna’s mission is simple but powerful: to help you create beautiful things with fabric, one inspired stitch at a time.
Join the community and explore expert instruction at www.designsbydonna.com.
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