Does pattern designer Megan Nielsen need any introduction? No, thought not! Right when we launched our #makeyourstash challenge, Megan announced that she was beginning a series on sustainable sewing on her blog. Of course that we are thrilled that she is sponsoring #makeyourstash. Even more so that she encourages shopping from your stash and reading everything to keep on top of what’s going on in the world of sustainability. Read on for the 60 second lowdown…
—
What’s your name and where do live?
Megan Nielsen and I live in sunny Perth, Western Australia.
What’s on your sewing table right now?
Samples for our upcoming pattern release.
What did you do before you became a pattern designer?
I was an Actuarial Analyst – which is a person that calculates and manages future financial risks. So basically I’m a maths nerd ☺
What triggered your interest in sustainable sewing?
My eyes were opened to how much waste my family creates about 8 years ago as I filled our rubbish bin with mounds of disposable diapers. I felt sickened by it, and since then I’ve been trying to reduce my own impact on the planet in every area of my life including sewing.
What’s your favourite thing about it?
I like the challenge of finding thoughtful ways to sew.
What’s the biggest challenge you face when trying to keep your sewing sustainable?
As a pattern designer I make a huge number of samples, and the amount of scrap fabric I generate is quite large. Finding a thoughtful way to reuse this fabric waste is always my greatest challenge.
Do you have any tips to keep your sewing mindful and relevant?
Read everything! I think staying abreast of what is going on in society and fashion is a great way to continually make sure your sewing is mindful and relevant.
Do you usually shop your stash?
I do. I prefer to purchase good quality long lasting natural fabrics when I can, so I tend to stash them, and then shop my own stash when I sew.
If you had to recommend a book, it would be…
Zero Waste Home by Bea Johnson is fantastic!
What are you looking forward to?
Clearing out my scrap basket!
—
Thank you Megan for your time and supporting our initiative!