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Doing it at home

Lynley Dress

Having a truly sustainable wardrobe, also known as eco-fashion, can be achieved at home. One way to achieve this is to learn to make or mend your own clothes. There are so many helpful and talented pattern designers–some are fantastic for beginners, some with exceptional design details, and some with a focus on specific body types.

Let’s focus on some of the many talented Kiwi designers–both in New Zealand and abroad. Why not support some of these designers and the great work they do?

Have I missed a New Zealand designer? Comment below.

New Zealand Pattern Designers:


  • Below the Kowhai: Easy to use sewing patterns with well thought-out tutorials
  • Forget-me-not: They simply love to design and sew beautiful womenswear sewing patterns
  • Hubba Ding: Making super simple but beautiful clothing at home
  • Jennifer Lauren Handmade: Fun modern sewing patterns that give a nod to classic vintage attire, with beautiful detail and clean drafting for a gorgeous fit
  • Liam Patterns: Part of Liam’s offering is a collection of its most loved pieces translated into patterns under the guise Liam Patterns.
  • Little Kiwis Closet: Patterns that are practical and basic but that a beginner seamstress can sew
  • Make by TFS: To encourage as many people as possible to sew their own clothing slowly
  • Makyla Creates: Sewing guides, patterns, DIY projects, and simple living inspiration
  • Muna and Broad: Modern sewing patterns for plus-size bodies
  • Muse Patterns: With a love for vintage styles, modern sewing patterns with interesting style lines and details that are easily wearable and customisable by everyone
  • My Keeper: The inspiration behind My Keeper is that memories can be triggered by simple things like the scent of a flower or a cherished quilt made by your grandmother.
  • Papercut Patterns: Celebrates the combination of women’s individuality and eco-friendly fashion
  • Paper Doll Patterns: Born out of a love for ethical & sustainable fashion, built on a desire to share the joy of sewing with anyone who wants to join the slow fashion movement by creating beautiful heirloom pieces at home
  • Paper Theory Patterns: To help those who want to check out of the fast fashion system – but don’t want to check out of fashion altogether
  • Scroop Patterns: Taking something wonderful and adding just a little bit extra to make it even more special and interesting
  • The Bold One: A sewing project and designer piece wrapped up in one
  • The Sewing Revival: Easy, modern sewing patterns
  • Trish Newbery: Making clothes that you feel good in
  • Twig + Tale: Embraces simple, step-by-step construction and the timeless charm of natural materials

If you have made something from one of these designers, let us know which pattern and why you liked it!

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