Hi, I’m Mari-Leen — fashion designer, patternmaker, and the creative behind this modern sewing space for women who want more from their handmade wardrobe.
My story began in a rural Namibian town with a simple sewing machine and a big dream: to make beautiful clothes that actually fit. I started out sewing custom dresses for clients and eventually built a small team, dressing TV presenters and even being nominated as Namibia’s Fashion Designer of the Year.
But behind the scenes, I dreamed of something more — a way to teach, inspire, and connect with sewists beyond my local community.
So I made the shift. I stepped away from custom work to focus on what I truly love: designing patterns and helping women sew clothes that feel like them — stylish, flattering, modern, and wearable.
Today, I create PDF sewing patterns that go beyond the basics. I help home sewists define their personal style, make garments they’ll actually wear, and learn how to remix and adjust patterns to suit both their bodies and their creativity.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take your handmade wardrobe to the next level, I’m here to guide you — with clear instructions, fashion-forward designs, and a whole lot of heart.
Welcome to my sewing world. I’m so glad you’re here.
A Bit About Me…
I’m obsessed with beautiful patterns, bold colors, sewing, designing, and decorating — and I believe good design should feel both joyful and effortless.
I’m a fashion and pattern designer with certifications in Womenswear Design from the London College of Fashion and Fashion Manufacturing from Central Saint Martins.
I was born and raised in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa, and now live in the south of Namibia with my three amazing kids — Mila, Joshua, and Carla. I love coffee, cooking, reading, a good movie, and learning new things. I’m deeply inspired by the way the internet has opened doors for creatives like us to build businesses, express ourselves, and make our dreams come true.
Be sure to sign up for my newsletter and follow Pattern Sewciety on social media to stay in the loop with new pattern releases, promotions, fashion inspiration, and more.
Happy sewing!
xoxo, Mari-Leen