Carissa recently took a series of both design & sewing classes classes to prepare herself for a graduate program application.  She completed her undergrad in another field and has been in the working world but wanted to shift gears into the realm of design.  She had a tight deadline and a steep learning curve but really made huge progress over just a couple of months.  We are so proud of her and all her hard work!  Look what a beautiful collection she designed and the dress she designed and constructed was only her 2nd adult sewing project.  Wow! Bravo Carissa - Bellisima!

Here is a little more about Carissa in her own Words:
What kind of work do you do, when you are not sewing? I work in the field of brand marketing and in the last year I started teaching yoga. Past roles include brand consultant and creative operations lead for in-house creative teams. I also started Beflow Yoga in the Fall.

When did you start sewing/how long have you been sewing? As a child I made a few projects with my grandma here in the Bay Area. Growing up I have fond memories of that time creating together. She would let me pick fabrics, patterns and colors which was really fun. I remember my first outfit was a dragonfly printed two-piece shorts and square neck tank top in green and blue gradient. I enjoyed a very active lifestyle and had to make sure I could run around with my dog in this outfit. Aside from that, the past 10-15 years I couldn't tell you I even had a sewing machine

What are your interests outside of sewing? Gosh, so many! I enjoy activities involving movement and creative expression such as hiking, running, skiing, travel, art, yoga, baking, styling and music. 

Why did you want to learn how to sew? A couple reasons come to mind. On a personal note, I have been struggling to find clothes in the market that resonated with my style at the quality and price point that felt comfortable for me. In addition I had difficulty finding clothes that fit my body type and height. As a result I started to think about the possibility of sewing my own wardrobe - for reasons that spoke to my unique aesthetic, fit and individuality. In addition, I was curious to learn about the relationship between fashion design & production in the industry since they are both very different skill sets (creative vs technical). I figured the more I could learn about how clothing is constructed, the better designer - and consumer I would be!  I loved that I could work with industry professionals at the Sewing Room to discuss this topic. 

What is your favorite part about sewing/the clothing making process (design, pattern, sewing, fabric etc.)? This is a hard question. My favorite part is probably when the garment starts to feel like a garment during construction! Maybe it is when the collar interfacing is secured or the back scoop sits against the skirt on a dress... you know the moment when you can start to see the piece come to life. This part is my favorite because it's rewarding to realize that a few minutes ago I had fabric in my hands, and now it's a real garment!! It's kind of like art. Acrylic paint is just paint until it hits the brush and canvas through your hands. It's the same with clothes. Fabric is just fabric until there is a design and body giving it shape. Sewing is the vehicle that actualizes the vision. There is a developmental process involved that is gradual but so satisfying when it all comes together. 

What are your #sewinggoals and/or ambitions? I hope to keep learning in as many ways that I can. I will continue designing collections, practicing my illustration and sewing more garments for personal enjoyment. I have an upcoming garden wedding in June. I hope to make a dress for that with the help of the brilliant instructors at the Sewing Room!

To keep up with Carissa you can follow her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/karyssaah/

If you are interested in our Fashion program, now is the time to sign up! We are now taking Applications and registration for our Summer Session.

Until next time, Happy Fashion!

xo Jennifer