Sewing Other Designers Patterns

Dumpling
Dumpling by Michelle Patterns

In the past, I rarely sewed patterns by other bag designers. I always worried that if I made someone’s pattern, and then later a technique she used showed up in my work, people would think I was copying that designer. But, as time has passed and I have seen more and more people designing bags, I’ve realized there really aren’t that many techniques after all. Instead, what matters is size, style, fabric choice, and somehow making something so universal look unique.

Lined-Drastring-Bag
Lined Drawstring Bag by Jeni Baker

The other major reason was, I sometimes alter the pattern so much, or want to, that it doesn’t even seem like the original anymore. So, instead of putting all that work into a bag designed by someone else, I would just start from scratch, and make my own bag in my own style.

Ellie-Case-3
Ellie Travel Case by Fabric Mutt

However, lately, I seem to have a few projects out of other patterns in the lineup, and I’m really enjoying making them. If I just stick to the pattern {it can be tough to not change a bunch of things}, it is actually really enjoyable sewing. I don’t have to take hundreds of pictures, write copious notes, and then spend hours at the computer creating a pattern, I can just sew and finish a project to enjoy.

a-Place-for-everything-bag
My current project: A Place for Everything Pattern by Annie

So, while you’ll be seeing more Clover & Violet patterns coming in the future, I also am learning just to slow down a little bit and enjoy sewing. It’s nice to know that someone has worked really hard to make sure my project turns out exactly like I want it to. I hope I have a few more fun pattern making experiences this summer, I’m going to use the A Place for Everything bag to hold travel embroidery supplies, and I’m already working on the hexagons for the outside.

I’m really wanting to practice slowing down, I see so much life rushing by me in the growth of my children, I really want to enjoy it. What are you most looking forward to this summer, sewing or not?

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3 Comments

  1. I have also decided to slow down a bit this summer and enjoy it with my kids. I still plan to sew this summer, but not as much as I had have been (not everyone needs something handmade all the time!). I have a few quilts planned for my kids’ fall birthdays, but that may be the extent of my sewing (late night sewing while kids are in bed!).

  2. Katy Jones had an ‘A Place for Everything’ bag that one of her followers made for her at Quiltcon. She showed me all the great storage options inside and I was blown away. It is on my ‘to do’ list, hopefully for this year!

  3. Love these projects you’ve made and I love the insight into your thinking around sewing other patterns and making your own. Enjoy the slowing down, I’m sure it won’t last long. 😉

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