Tuesday, January 03, 2012

Jane Sassaman; Classic looks in today's fabrics

FreeSpirit Designer Jane Sassaman working in her studio.
Hello, everyone! I'm Jane Sassaman and I design fabric for FreeSpirit. This has been a dream job for a gal who has also been a quilter and a sewer for so many years. Designing the fabric is only half the fun. After the textiles are printed, I also get to "fondle fabric" to my hearts content and share the fabric's potential with all of you!
Classic Apron Pattern
My FreeSpirit designs, like my art quilts, are bold, graphic and colorful. They are designed to be "art by the yard". And, of course, ideal for all kinds of creative sewing and decorating projects.
Stitchers and designers are always collecting ideas and patterns to make. We found this classic apron pattern in a local antique mall. You can see that it was well loved in it's former life, too. Can't you imagine Joan Crawford, as Mildred Pierce, in this wonderful cover-up?

Pocket detail
So here is a contemporary version made with my current FreeSpirit collection, Early Birds. Modeled by Elizabeth and Christina and sewn by their Mom and my favorite helper, Susan Tempin, this is one of the latest creations to come from the Sassaman studioI love how nicely the fabrics play together. The apron on the right is made with Cheeky Checks and Prairie Poppies in the Blueberry colorway. Susan did a masterful job matching the plaids. The one on the left is made with Poka Dots and Strawberry Serenade in the Plum pallet. The rick rack makes a wonderful trim which harkens back to 1950 when the pattern was published.

The details on the back are delightful with covered buttons on the back strap and the generous bow ties.  This classic pattern reinterpreted in contemporary fabric makes a winning combination. It just shows that a good thing can get even better!
PS...To read more about Jane's design process see the October/November 2011 issue of Quilter's Newsletter. You can also visit her website and blog to keep up with more Early Bird ideas.
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14 comments:

Cecilia said...

Cute aprons! I love the new look and the old style.

Anonymous said...

The font on this post is WAY to SMALL for these old eyes....
do hope my LQS gets early birds... she sometimes fools us...

FreeSpirit Fabric said...

I hope the font is better! Thanks for letting us know.

Joanna said...

I love those aprons. I love the style and the fabric.

Lee said...

I love the classic look! thanks!

Anonymous said...

I just wanted to thank you for sponsoring the giveaway on victorian quilt designs. It is really great! Joyce-ccarter13@windstream.net

Carrie P. said...

Very cute. And the old pattern is great inspiration to use new fabrics.

mwhite said...

I love the aprons, the fabric is wonderful. I am going to save your blog and check it out often. I am learning how to be more bold with my color use and you are inspiring me.

Pattyskypants said...

I'm a big fan of Jane's designs, but it is very difficult to find any of her fabric at the local shops; so online I go! xxoo Patty

Rachaeldaisy said...

Such beautiful aprons!!! And beautiful fabrics!!

Katie, Julep and Derby's Mom said...

I love the fact you took a 'classic' pattern and married it with your boldly designed fabrics. Happy Creating and may 2012 be your best year yet!

Katie
www.westiejulep.blogspot.com
www.katiesews4fun.blogspot.com

Eva said...

Me parecen originales.
Gracias!

Judi said...

Aprons are really cute and practical. A great way to "show off" the fabric!

Judi said...

Cute apron patterns and a great way to show off fabrics!