FAQ #1

Dear Blog and Blogees-

I miss you.  I'm sorry I haven't been around.  I'm sorry family that I haven't posted pictures of Eliza's enormous birthday party we had this weekend.  I'm sorry I haven't returned all the super kind emails from you amazing seamstresses showing me places you're using Ginger Blossom.  I've read each one and gone and looked at the place you sent me to.  I'm sorry I haven't returned the emails from people kindly offering help with sample sewing. 

The "sorry" list could go on but it would take up too much time which is so precious right now.  One quick announcement that I had planned to do much more dramatically but these 4 prints are now available in Laminated Cotton!  Fun projects I see in their future.. 

Let's make a dent in those questions I had promised to be answered 2 weeks ago shall we?

A fabric designer huh . . . lifelong vision or lucky chance of fate?

A little bit of both!  My first job was working in a fabric store.  My mom pushed me into it so she could get a discount and a life long love affair for textiles began.  I remember my favorite task was when the fabric needed organizing.  All the other teenagers there hated that job and I always jumped for it!

I used to marvel at how it could all come about and when I discovered designer cotton fabrics I remember being utterly smitten.  I read an article about Amy Butler and saw a picture of her holding her fabric and thinking how utterly lucky she was to have such a cool job.  This was about 2 years ago.  Then one day, someone told me I had no talent.  (In many more words than that, but it was the general idea.)  I knew they were just saying it to be hurtful and I tried so hard to not let it bother me, but hey-I'm only human.  ;)  So I decided it was time to do something big and just show the world what I could offer.  The timing was perfect and I am now really grateful for that really crappy experience that hurt me to the core.  I really try to not hold on to hurt for very long because it really only hurts...me. 

Oh, and when might we get a glimpse of your new line of fabric?

Soon my friends, soon.  Honestly because it debuts in 2.5 weeks and I have to get the sample yardage before then!  The line was actually shown at the LA textile show a week or so ago and is being very well received and already ordered so it will be available pretty soon after I debut it on the blog!  Same deal with the patterns!  Here, take a peek at the logo, this will hopefully tide you over. 

How do you even begin the process of designing fabric? (i.e. software, hand sketching, ??)

Each of my lines were done a little differently.  Ginger Blossom was a process of trial and error.  Most of the prints began as sketches that I scanned into the computer while they were still very rough and finished them up with the Wacom in Adobe Photoshop CS2.  Farmer's Market (I've kept that quiet for so long to give GB a little time to shine and it feels so good to finally talk about it a bit!) was entirely drawn in the computer in Photoshop CS2.  It worked out very well and while I created it entirely in the computer, it must be said that I don't use graphic style methods when creating my artwork.  (using circles, straight lines etc.. to create artwork or cut shapes with..)  There is nothing wrong with this, and it creates very clean graphics I just prefer a little bit more of a hand drawn look to my fabrics.  Every now and then if you see a dot in my fabrics or obviously my stripes, these are done with shapes from the computer but I don't use those dot and stripe tools to make new shapes and artwork.  All my non dot or stripe fabrics are drawn by my own two little hands.  Clear as mud?

Do you work on more than one collection at the same time or just focus on one?

I only work on the artwork for one line at a time but will probably be working on the strike offs for the upcoming line at the same time.  This can be hard!  I've found that during the time my strike offs come, that's the only creative thing I can work on because that time period is so crucial!  I've compared it to picking out 50 paint colors at once and having them all work together.  If one is off the whole print can be ruined and you can only do so many runs.  Dustin is a trooper and cooks all meals and changes all diapers when my strike offs are in.

How many fabric manufacturers did you submit your designs to and how long did it take to get a "yes"?

Hmm..this is hard to remember honestly.  I think I spoke with about 5 manufacturers and was lucky enough to be offered contracts right on the spot.  If you're trying to get into the business and this doesn't happen for you-don't fret.  I spoke with manufacturers in person and I'm sure that sped things up.

Did you get a lot of rejections or did you have to choose which manufacturer to go with?

I was lucky enough to have choices.  :)  I chose Michael Miller for a few reasons.  Their fabrics are consistently the best quality I've seen.  At the time they didn't have any other licensed designers and I was sure to get special treatment and extra attention and training.  (which I did and it was heavenly.)  They have since added some new licensed designers all of whom I know and am very excited to work with.  One in particular as she has been my friend for a long time and is so talented!  This is all worthy of a post of it's own so stay tuned.
What kind of camera do you use? (Sorry if this is answered somewhere already)

Nikon D50-I am writing a section all for photography so stay tuned.  It will show up in the FAQ's section in my sidebar soon.

Do you have any special lighting you use or is it all natural light?

Au Naturel baby.

How do you get your pictures so bright and crisp? Is that a photoshop trick or do they come out like that naturally?

It's a photoshop trick.  Obviously the better picture you get straight out of the camera, the better end result but there are several sharpening tricks.  One is the unsharp mask which is probably the most popular method.  I am playing with a new sharpening program right now and will keep you posted.  There are a lot of photo actions that are perfect for photographers just getting the feel of editing.  I will list some of my favorites in that FAQ section I was talking about.

Graphics - have you found any program easier to use than others? I have photoshop elements and am considering upgrading - but there are lots of choices!!

Long long ago in a galaxy far away I tried out countless versions of editing programs when I was looking for the best option for editing pictures of my children's clothing.  I downloaded about 6 different programs and used them one at a time for the free trial period.  I ended up preferring Photoshop but you will hear a different story from different people.  I'm completely self taught and none of them came very easily to me, there were a lot of late nights with Google to get it all figured out but eventually I did.  When I decided to design fabric, I used Photoshop because that's what I knew.  People may be surprised to know that I have designed both lines in my kitchen on a laptop with a 6 x 8 Wacom.  It's really about knowing what you're doing and not the equipment.  I say that with a light tone-you might compare it to cameras.  Having advanced equipment certainly helps and can create a better product but someone who knows what they're doing can have a better result with less equipment than someone with all the fancy shmancy stuff.  I just say that so those of you that may be contemplating this don't run out and spend $4000 on a new computer and gear.  It can be done on less.  That also being said, I am buying this and trying out this before I start work on my next line next month.  (not to debut until Spring 2009)  I've put in my time and now I'm buying a few toys he he.  I can't wait-I'll be able to see almost a whole yard of fabric on that screen while designing!

You mention in one of your blogs the advantages/need for getting a serger. I agree. I am not yet able to buy a $500 model. What are the MOST important features I should look for? I want to especially do ruffles. and trimmed edges.

Oh please to treat yourself to a serger at some point!  Sewing clothing is so much more enjoyable with one!  I happen to have a hand me down and this is another area of my craft where I boast not needing the top of the line to create a good product.  (Lots of product manufacturers will probably be angry at me after this post, but I'm keepin' it real.)  I sewed on a $50 sewing machine and 15 year old serger every day for 3 years.  I mean, every day.  I need an endorsement with Kenmore or something because that little $50 machine still works and I love it.  I'm now sewing on a hand me down Singer.  I still have the same hand me down Serger.  It is a Huskylock 340 which I don't think they even make anymore!  I think any basic machine will do what you want.  You want to look for a machine that does the basic serge stitch and also what is known as a rolled hem or overlock stitch.  Those are the only two stitches I ever use on my serger.  I'm sure other people do more with them, but so far I haven't found the need!

Again, this is another area where I am gearing up to treat myself to a machine (sewing and serging) I pick out myself and pay some $$ for.  I don't know what I'm going to get but will let you see it when I do.  I did test drive a sewing machine a few months ago that clipped the threads at the end of the stitch for you and I wanted to make out with it right there in the store.

How do you balance home, children, design, creativeness, and church responsibilities?!

Oh boy..whenever anyone asks me about getting into the business and how to handle it all the thing I try to stress the most is having a supportive spouse.  It would not happen without my husband. 

That being said?  I'm a prioritizer.  "A" has to come before "B".  Lists are my friend.  But most importantly, I've just had to learn to go with the flow.  This isn't and industry where you can plan every detail out and expect to follow it.  You never know when your strike offs will arrive or when that sample yardage will come.  The whole family has to be truly ok with letting this world be part of your lives.  It's not for everyone.  And right now my church responsibilities are light on my load.  I am in charge of throwing a birthday party once every 3 months for all the women who had a birthday within the last 3 months!  And speaking of which..it's about time.  Hmm..

Thank you for your questions, it was fun to answer them.  If you're still reading right now, bless you.  I chatted away an hour and a half by the looks of my clock now reading 3 AM so it's off to bed and I'll try to be back much sooner.  Hopefully with real pictures of new fabric soon!

Comments

[Mary]

Sandi, you will really love the move to Mac and Illustrator. The variable weight pen tool alone is worth it.

[Tina in Boston]

Thank you! I'm off to work, but I've printed this out. I have something nice to read on my way into work. I'll be taking the train, not driving, in case you're wondering! :) I am so happy about the covered fabric. I just bought a pattern last night that I wanted to use covered fabric for.

[Meghan Cobble]

Sandi,

I've never posted to you before, but I read you daily. I must say your blog is like a candy treat each morning that I fire up the computer and check my daily blogs...yours is one of the first I check. You words are so natural; your comments so happy and realistic, and your artwork, imagery, photography, designs....outstanding. I love your crisp, vibrant and uplifting outlook on life. I myself am a stay at home mom to 2 little boys. I wanted to thank you for such genuine posting and honesty in all that you report to us about your profession. It is definitely a dream job I have. I currently have a sewing business out of my home making custom purse, diaper bag, and baby accessory items for clients. It's been going for a year this May. I do all of my own designs and am like you said "smitten" with the art of creating. My post to you is UNBELIEVABLY LONG, but your energy, honesty, and optism, not to mention...never leaving out a single detail is truly inspiring to me! I am sure many people can say this! Thank you!!

p.s. I have to say my favorite thing to play when I was little was TG&Y Fabric Deaprtment...you may not even know this store (like a Fred's or a Wal-Mart, but ole school.) I would go into my mom's big armoir stash of fabric and pretend to cut yardage for customers and then arrange the fabric in rolls or fan arrays as shop displays...little girls and their dreams!!! Can you tell I like the details too????

Meghan :-)

[Toni Coward]

hi sandi,
just wondering what church you belong to?
toni

[Annie Cannon]

Thanks for taking the time to answer these questions!!

Annie

[Caroline]

Thanks for sharing so much wonderful information! Lot's to think about and digest!

[Sandi Henderson]

Hi Toni! I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. More commonly known as "LDS" or even more commonly known as Mormon.

:)
Sandi

[Terriaw]

This post was so informative! and inspiring! Thank you for sharing all your thoughts on the process of fabric design. I also know now that I need to stock up on Ginger Blossom before Farmers Market comes out so I can stock up on the new fabric too. Love your designs - thank you for being you!

[Helena B]

you are so sweet, thank you for that post, don't stay up so late!

[lorri]

Thanks Sandi! Although I'm feeling pretty bad you stayed up until 3 A.M to answer my questions! Hope you get more sleep tonight and good luck getting ready for market!

[dana]

Thanks for answering our questions. I have lots of Ginger Blossom and look forward to seeing Farmer's Market.

[Erika]

Thanks so much for answering our questions. Can't wait to see Farmers Market! :o)

[Jennifer]

Nope, the Farmer's Market logo didn't satisfy me at all. I can't wait to see it! What an exciting year you've had - congratulations!

[chelsea]

Hi Sandi,

Thanks for this Q&A. I love the craft world and really want to design fabric, too. I really think the scrapbook industry and fabric industry should get together more often. I find so many cute papers that I think, OH, I'd love to make a quilt out of that and then I'll find fabric, and think, oh my gosh, that would look so cute mod-podged onto a frame (granted, I can modpodge fabric, but it's not the same). I'm looking forward to the other posts!

[Debye]

Thanks for taking the time to give us all these great tips. The logo just made me more anxious to see the line!!!

[Kay SnyderKay]

Sandi as always you rock! I can't wait to see Farmer's Market, I'm intrigued by the logo. I want more

[Somer]

Hi Sandi,
You're going to love your Mac and Illustrator. There are capabilities of scanning original artwork into Photoshop and transferring to Illustrator as line art so you can manipulate it through points. Kind of complicated to figure out the first time but wonderful once you have it down. The first time I worked on a Mac it was like the cartoon light bulb experience. Love it!

[Tina]

Sandi, loved your faq answers! So fun and refreshing. I just got my first Ginger Blossom a few weeks ago and I just LOVE it! (I got the 1/2 yard bundle pack from Fabric.com with that great 20% coupon.) I'm not sure what I will make with it, but the possibilities are endless. I can't wait to see Farmer's Market (great name).

[Patty/MODKID]

Hey girl! WOW! look at all your FAQs! You're a celebrity now. :) Can't wait for you to get your Mac and your Illustrator. Then we'll have all the same equipment and we can chat it up. LOL!!! You're gonna love it and you have done amazing work with the tools you have so far so I can't even imagine what you'll make next! Weeeeee! :) See ya soon!

[Andrea Larsen]

Thanks so much for all the information you consistently give to would be fabric designers. It is nearly impossible to find a helping hand in this industry. You made my day with this. Any little bit helps!

[Andrea Larsen]

Thanks so much for all the information you consistently give to would be fabric designers. It is nearly impossible to find a helping hand in this industry. You made my day with this. Any little bit helps!

[Amanda]

Thanks for doing this! Can't wait for the next FAQ! And I'm glad to see you're a supporter of inexpensive machines. I don't have an expensive machine, but I don't see the benefit of it, other than it might be computerized or self threading. But IMO the end result is the same.

[Ronda]

What amazing and honest answers. Everything I have ever wanted to ask about this process I just had answered. Now I know...not for me. LOL! Keep those gorgeous and yummy fabrics coming. Thank you for your kindness.
~Ronda

[Shari]

Hi Sandi! Love your blog! I just ordered a few yards of your Ginger Blossom and can't wait for Farmer's Market, you're such a tease with the logo!! I love your style, you are so fab, but real. I love to sew and smock and hope you keep designing wonderful fabrics for all of us! Your kids are adorable!! Originally found you through Melinda on Ebay (Purple Seamstress), who has become a great friend, you made a cute outfit out of fabric from her, I bought the same fabric! Keep up the great work!

[Danielle]

Thanks for your answer on the serger! You ARE the BEST. Keep the good Karma flowing girl! One of your fans!
Danielle