1. When did you start designing
patterns and how did it come about?
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I've always used existing
patterns as a source of inspiration, but I rarely if ever follow them to a T. I
usually alter something or combine a few patterns to get the look I have in my
minds eye on paper!
2. What training do you have or how did you learn?
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I have no formal training
of pattern drafting, however, I come from a long line of tailors (going back to
at least 1800). I have been around patterns and tailoring since my birth!
3. What is the process of designing a new pattern like?
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I start by drawing out some
sketches and then from there I work out each of the individual pattern pieces
on my pattern paper. Once I have pattern pieces, I start to play with fabrics,
partly b/c it is fun, but by feeling the fabric it helps me figure out if the
fabric is appropriate for what I want to create! I then sew up the pattern and
make any adjustments needed! If necessary, I will sew up a second version of
the pattern. I take pictures along the way and make shorthand notes of the
order in which I sew and important steps and note down things to watch out for
as I sew. Once I am satisfied, I redraw the pattern and grade it by hand for
all the sizes I need. I then scan the pieces into my computer. (The larger
pattern pieces I will cut up and scan individually). Once the pieces have all
been scanned I digitalize each pattern piece in Photoshop (I digitally glue the
larger pieces back together). I then write up my instructions (although I
sometime switch back and forth between the digitalization and instruction
writing. After I have both the instructions and the pattern pieces ditialized,
I convert the files to pdf, and email the pdfs to testers, who will sew up
their own version of the pattern using my instructions and provide feedback on
both the pattern and the instructions. Once I have made any adjustments, my
pattern is available for sale
4. What is the hardest part about designing a pattern in pdf form?
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I think the hardest part of
pattern making is the drafting of the pattern blocks, and fine tuning them to
create the vision you have in your head!
5. What is your favorite of your
patterns and why?
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Well since I only have the
LARA out at the moment, I will go with that one, but I have a few I am working
on, that are tugging at my heart strings!
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 sew for my own family but I also do
custom work. I enjoy sewing and pattern making equally, but I do prefer pattern
design over custom orders as I it satisfies my creative side 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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If in doubt, include it in
the instructions, if a seamstress is familiar with the technique she can read
over it, or do it her way!
8. Best time and place to design?
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In my sewing studio, when
the kids are either at school or sleeping!
9. Favorite fabric of all time?
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I don't have one favourite
that comes to mind, but I am drawn to vivid and bold colours! I have a hard
time walking away from Hilco, Stenzo and Jennifer Paganelli fabrics!
10. Favorite thing to do for fun?
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Spending time with my family is my
favourite activity! Playing with the kids and spending some quality time with
the hubby is priceless!
Mira has a new pattern, coming soon, called Lulu. Here's a sneak peak!
Stay tuned for a few more pattern designer interviews to come.......
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