1. When did you start designing
patterns and how did it come about?
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I released my first PDF pattern in 2007. It was a natural progression of
my obsession with cute kids' clothes and my passion for sewing.
2. What training do you have or how did you learn?
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I've been sewing since I was a teenager, and have immersed myself in the
study of pattern making and grading for several years now. I am always learning.
3. What is the process of designing a new pattern like?
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I keep a pile of printed croquis on hand -
proportional body templates of babies and children that I can sketch on when
the mood hits. Usually I'm inspired by a smaller detail like a sleeve, or a
combination of one or two elements rather than coming up with a fully-formed
garment idea, but occasionally a whole pattern just springs to life. I tear
from magazines, catalogs, etc, and keep it all in folders. Then I get to work
replicating my ideas with fabric, refining the pattern, grading, writing and
photographing the instructions, digitizing and editing photos, assembling the
testing team, and so forth.
PS. That's my cutie pie in the dress I made her from this pattern.
4. What is the hardest part about designing a pattern in pdf form?
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All the time at the computer. Sewing and sketching is a very small part
of the creation process (you know that internet meme about "what I really
do"? Don't imagine me glamorously draping a mannequin, but sitting behind
a computer with piles of paper and fabric scraps all around and serger tails
stuck to my shirt.) Drafting, digitizing, grading, photo editing, drawing
diagrams, writing instructions, administering multiple websites/online shops, marketing
and promoting online, and providing customer support and service - and I am
sure there are things I am leaving out - it all requires long stretches of time
on the computer. With 3 kids I love to pieces, it's hard to find the time and
also the discipline! I'd rather be playing with fabric, or playing Candy Land
for that matter, but long hours at the computer really forms the biggest part
of pattern design.
5. What is your favorite of your
patterns and why?
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Tough question! I love them all, but if I have to choose, for this
season, I'm in love with the Daydreamer Dress. The cover photo captures exactly
what I wanted it to look like and feel like for your the little girl wearing
it. Plus a friend of mine encouraged me to give the design a go.
6. Do you sew for your own family or
for sale? What do you prefer more, sewing or pattern design, and why?
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I don't sew for sale at all, and not even much for my family - this
cobbler's children have no shoes! Sewing is a real treat for me. After all this
time it's still my favorite hobby as well as my business.
Did you know she makes patterns for more than just kid's clothing? There are hats, diaper covers, doll dresses, and more!!
7. Have you learned anything from
feedback from customers that you would like to share with other designers or
wanna-be designers?
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I've gotten many compliments on the way my instructions anticipate
common errors and prevent them before they happen.
8. Best time and place to design?
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On my window seat in the sun when I can, but (see above) much of the
intensive drafting and grading can only take place at my desk, in silence, when
there are no kids around.
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9. Favorite fabric of all time?
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Ooh. First you want a favorite pattern, now a favorite fabric!
I'd have
to say Joel Dewberry Aviary (original) Sparrows in pink. You can see it on the
cover/listing photos for Baby Butterfly Top.
10. Favorite thing to do for fun?
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Beach comb. Being in the sun + thrill of finding sea glass and other
beautiful treasures = heaven.
Jen's patterns are the first pdf patterns I ever bought and they had me hooked. I need more visuals to help me sew than a paper pattern can give. I love how pdf patterns show step-by-step directions and Jen's are among the best. I have gotten to the point where I now test for, which is a lot of fun.
Stay tuned for a few more pattern designer interviews to come.......
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