The Pattern Room is a multi-faceted small business in the apparel industry.
We offer pattern making classes for all skill levels, sewing classes to get you started or to build on existing skills, and a range of sewing and knitting patterns available for purchase.
Our aim is to offer education, connection and community - through shared learning, social events, and the development of a directory of talented creators who can produce garments for those who can’t make their own.
Some will come to learn because they feel commercial fashion doesn’t represent their style, or never fits quite right. Others may be here to build a future in fashion. Everyone is welcome!
When you feel comfortable and truly represented by what you're wearing, the energy you give off is magic - like art. And art is essential. How lucky if you have the means to create your own.
With easy access to global trends, commercially available fashion often ends up feeling homogenised. Hopefully, by sharing skills in this space, we can help create a little divergence from the trend-machine.
Based in Geelong and the Surf Coast, Victoria. We hope to see you soon!
About
Who we are
When I say ‘we’, it’s mostly ‘me’, but I have additional support from amazingly talented people I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years. As time progresses, there will be classes on offer that I will call on masters of the subject to teach. So, the ‘we’ list will grow!
Rachel McCurry Founder
I started this business because, after more than twenty years in the fashion apparel industry, I realised I’d accumulated a lot of practical knowledge that others might like to learn.
Here’s a bit about my background.
I’m originally from regional South Australia, and began studying Textiles, Clothing and Footwear, and Fashion Design, when I was 16. I completed my Diploma in Fashion Design in 2003, but at the time, Adelaide didn’t have a thriving industry to step into - so I made the move to Melbourne.
My career started in a very glamorous ;) Despatch/Fit Model role. From there, I moved into pattern making, design and production across many Australian women’s and children’s wear brands. Over time, I found myself in consulting roles with start-up labels - using my industry experience to help navigate the process from concept through to delivery.
In 2022, I stepped into a role in Ethical and Sustainability Compliance and Quality Management. This included managing factory, social audits (to ensure compliance with international labour standards), overseeing chain-of-custody documentation (verifying organic fibres, non-toxic dyes, and sustainably produced textiles), and handling quality management processes (testing for fabric and trim durability, safety, and compliance with children’s clothing standards).
I also worked with an Australian organisation focused on protecting the rights of local textile, clothing and footwear workers - ensuring ethical workplace practices.
So yes, I’ve done a few things…
Now, I’m motivated by doing what I love in a way that treads lightly. I want to help others create garments they’ll care for and truly value - and maybe even help to uncover a creative streak yet to be discovered.
Here’s your reminder of why creativity is essential
If you're a creative who needs a little reminder of why it feels so good, take the time to watch this.
Contact us
We want to hear from you. Questions, comments, life musings, send it all!