Sewing Other Designers 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.

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.

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.

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?