There's just something about sewing for children. Whether it's the inherent creativity or joy that making something for someone small brings, it's a wonderful way to sew.
You can tell by just looking through the catalog of this week's featured pattern company, Max & Meena Patterns, that creativity and joy are at the heart of things. I recently spoke to Jamie Nutz of Max & Meena Patterns, to learn a little bit more about her company and what makes them so special.
Jamie grew up watching her mom sew, but she didn't start really sewing in earnest until she began drafting, creating and selling custom children's costumes. Eventually, she moved onto creating clothing and cloth diapers, and that led her to take up pattern design.
It was the popular Maxaloones pattern that started it all for Max and Meena, and Jamie states that it happened almost as if by chance. After numerous requests for cloth diaper-friendly pants for little ones, Jamie realized the need for a pattern for all to enjoy, so she created one. These became so popular that the term "Maxaloones" (the name made up by combining the "Max" from Max & Meena, and "pantaloons"), even began to be used to describe the majority of grow-with-me style pants from various clothing companies. Continuing to be inspired by boutique children's wear, Jamie began to draft other patterns from there.
A busy mom to three young children, Jamie says that creating and growing Max & Meena Patterns has sometimes been a roller coaster ride, but truly worth every moment. You can tell she loves what she does, and this love shines through with each pattern she creates.
When asked about the future of Max & Meena, Jamie says, "I would love to eventually bring on another designer. I have so many ideas floating around in my head and not enough time to get them all down on paper, let alone drafted out and tested. I am excited to see what the future holds for Max & Meena."
There are so many cute and creative patterns available at Max & Meena Patterns, and the team here at So Sew English Patterns are certainly not immune to their charm. Elda recently used their Heart on My Sleeve Hoodie pattern to make this version for her son for Valentine's Day using Oakley knit, and it is so whimsical and sweet.
Another recent favorite is the Rainbow Falls Hoodie, which, like the Heart on My Sleeve, features a darling colorblocked design that really enables your creativity to shine. Here, Jessica made her little one a version that would be perfect for any child who loves cars!
And let's not forget, Max & Meena Patterns also features great patterns for adults too! Jessica made herself an Adult Rainbow Falls Hoodie here. I love the how the colorblocking allows the sewist to showcase and play with a number of colors and prints, and also makes for a great scrap-buster!
With so much joy and heart, you can really see why Max & Meena Patterns continues to be a favorite for kids and adults alike!