To continue our celebration of our independent designers, we spoke to Lauren van der Mast, a sewing pattern designer! She discusses the freedom of pattern design, her studio, and her favourite pattern. Shop her patterns here.
1. What made you want to become a pattern designer?
I started sewing so that I wasn’t restricted (in fashion) to what was available in RTW… I could never wear a dress or high waisted pants etc because of my height. Designing pattern just became a natural progression of that, being able to create my wardrobe exactly as I wanted – no restrictions.
2. Why is pattern design so important to you?
It gives me the freedom (and I hope others who enjoy my patterns) to wear/express myself how I want. Before I started making patterns or even sewing, I felt very limited and restricted – like the fashion industry choose what I could wear regarding fit, style, and price tag.
3. Is pattern designing your full-time job?
No, I have chronic fatigue and home school my son. I used to be an athlete and personal trainer; sewing, and then pattern designing, became a hobby I could do in my own time as I was able.
4. Do you have your own studio? Tell us about your workspace.
I have a room in our house, it’s called ‘The Babe Cave’, apart from a cutting table, it’s perfect 🙂
5. When you’re experiencing a creative block, how do you get back into the spirit?
I find that because I don’t sew or make patterns full time, my to-do list is much longer than what I have time for, but sometimes I get stuck on finishing touches or fabric choices. I find it’s usually because I get so many ideas and get overwhelmed, so if I go back to basics and make a list of what I DO want to make, it clears my head and moving forward becomes clear.
6. What is your favourite pattern you’ve created?
While not as popular with customers, my cargo pants… I ticked off an item of clothing I so wanted as a teen but could never afford to buy!
Thank you so much to Lauren for taking the time to answer our questions – we hope you can get to know her and her work a little better! Click here to check out her shop to see her amazing patterns! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with our other content celebrating our independent designers!
