Every month here at Boho Fabrics we're featuring a different pattern designer. Come along with us and learn more about your favorites and maybe even find a new one! This month we're all about 5 Out of 4 Patterns! Be sure to follow along in our FB group to see all of the fun we have planned! And go have a look for yourself at 5 Out of 4! https://5outof4.com/

Designer Spotlight – March 2018

Jessica from 5 out of 4 Patterns

1. Tell us a little about yourself! What makes your world go ‘round as a designer and in general?

I have 6 kids and sew and do crafty things to help maintain my sanity.  I really enjoy the puzzle of figuring out how items are constructed and the best way of bringing it as a pattern for the public.  I LOVE seeing people who are proud of something they’ve created, and I LOVE seeing gifts that people have made using patterns from 5oo4.  

2. How did you get your start as a pattern designer(s) and how long have you been designing?

I’ve been designing for 3 years.  I got my start through obsessively sewing for hours per night when my twins were little.  I was testing for other designers and really felt drawn to the pattern design process.  I was incredibly lucky that Angie from Greenstyle Creations helped me learn Adobe Illustrator and my husband was very supportive of my goals.  

3. What makes 5 out of 4 Patterns unique? How do you try to differentiate your patterns from others on the market?

I don’t shy away from more advanced patterns.  I think that if I can make the tutorial clear and provide videos and plenty of help, then even adventurous beginners can tackle almost anything.  I am not willing to focus on “quick and easy” patterns, and I really want to empower women to improve and grow their sewing abilities instead of just settling for instant gratification.  

4. Where do you draw inspiration from for your designs? Who are you designing for?

I really love the athleisure companies such as Title Nine and Athleta.  I’m designing for the modern, adventurous family.

5. How would you define your ‘style’ to someone who has never seen your designs?

Versatile with a sporty edge.  Not all of my patterns are athleisure wear, but I like patterns that are incredibly versatile so you can go from pool, to play, to party all with one pattern whether you’re pregnant, nursing, or neither.

6. What is your favorite part of the design process?

While testing is stressful, I LOVE getting women’s input on the construction and fit and learning how to help as many people as possible achieve a great fit.  We try and encourage people to grow their sewing abilities, so we try and include fitting help and techniques in each of our patterns.   

7. What do you have planned for 2018? What are you most excited for as a designer?

Rachelle and I have switched to using a CAD program instead of Adobe Illustrator.  This has shown to really help the testing process go much more smoothly. We’re hoping it also speeds up our overall process so we can produce more patterns...but, I also have a new baby who is attached to my hip 100% of the time. :) I’m excited for Rachelle’s next pattern, the Jessie, and I have a one piece bathing suit that I’m really looking forward to creating.

8. Do you have a favorite pattern in your collection? Why? What do you love about it?

I love skorts.  I’d love to come out with a new skort every season. I like skorts because I can feel feminine, but still freely chase after my kids and be active.  I think the Shenanigans Skort is one of my favorite patterns because it can go from the pool to church and the flounce is feminine and slightly flirty without being obnoxious.  

9. What is your least favorite thing to do in regards to sewing and/or designing?

I’m not sure what is my least favorite thing to do.  I don’t love seam ripping, but at the same time, I find it calming once you get into a rhythm.  

10. If you could do/accomplish anything as a designer, what would it be? What is your ultimate goal or wish in the realm of pattern design?

I really love the growth 5oo4 has had so far, and I’d love to continue growing just as fast.  I think seeing 5oo4 patterns available in my local stores would be mind-blowing.  

11. What’s your favorite kind of fabric(s) to work with?

I really love sewing with knits because I rarely wear anything else.  

12. Any type of fabrics on your “Do not sew” list?

I don’t have any!  If it’s a challenge and there is something I want to make, I want to sew with it!

13. What kind of machine(s) do you sew on?

I have a finicky Husqvarna sewing machine that I bought used about 5 years ago, a Brother 1034d, and last year I invested in a Babylock Ovation.

14. Anything else you want our followers to know about 5 out of 4 Patterns?

We’re fun! Rachelle and I, along with Tasha and Laura, like to laugh and we really like to help people learn and grow as much as possible.

Alexis Davis