The Hochschule Niederrhein graduates - both from the Faculty of Textile and Clothing Technology - run a "pattern workshop" for do-it-yourself women's fashion under the name "Stitchmaiden". The designs are based on historical models and combine them with contemporary styles. "The time period ranges from the Middle Ages to the 1920s," explains Anjuli Erkens, who completed her Master's degree in Textile Products at the beginning of the year. Faye Lee, also a specialist in women's outerwear, went into business after her studies. She gave up a permanent job in the fashion industry to become self-employed. "Our clientele are women who are not satisfied with off-the-peg fashion," she says. For more unusual blouses, dresses, skirts etc., the founders create pdf patterns including instructions and also produce video tutorials.
Everything is in English so that they can also serve the attractive markets in Asia and America. The relevant social media channels, on which a community is built up, are also correspondingly important. Using the modular principle, customers can decide for themselves which collar shape the blouse should have, or whether the dress should have puffed sleeves or be laced at the back. The type of fabric, color and accessories can be chosen individually anyway. A sewing machine should be available at home, but professional skills are not essential. "We try to offer patterns for every level of seamstress," emphasizes Faye Lee.
The startup works with standard dress sizes. "However, as no body is standard, we are also happy to offer advice and teach our customers how to adjust their patterns," says Anjuli Erkens. Stitchmaiden GbR, based in Heinsberg, the 26-year-old's home town, is currently preparing to enter the market after the start-up phase. Among other things, a website is being created for this, which will also feature the online store. A blog with tutorials and lifestyle content is also firmly planned. "With our patterns, we are focusing on sustainability and the do-it-yourself trend," says Faye Lee.
