Doing it at home

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