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.