Philip Sawyer Designs

Philip Sawyer Designs

5.0Exceptional(11 reviews)

About

I've been designing, patterning and making literally every type of garment for nearly 40 years, and currently do all of that for custom clients, and patternmaking and prototyping for commercial businesses.

Since 2010 I have also taught for RISD, initially heading the Continuing Education Apparel program, and since 2014 I have taught traditional men's tailoring and basic patternmaking and sewing in the undergraduate Apparel program.

There are very few others who have this breadth of experience, along with a desire to pass it on to the next generation.

I love the problem-solving aspect of my work: apparel for me is the development of a sculptural-yet-practical solution to a particular client's desires, using particular materials and methods to do this. Consequently, in many ways each project has its own unique issues that need to be dealt with, and for which I need to develop optimal solutions based on my expertise and experience. These issues range from the personal and psychological to technical and materials questions.

There are few things more satisfying than seeing a client put on one of my garments and "discover" how it fits them both physically and personally, and brings out who they are in its own special way. My motto for many years has been, "Clothing that makes you look better than you are, yet more like yourself."


Highlights

Hired 5 times
1 employee
20 years in business
Serves Boston , MA

Social media


Reviews

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Rhiannon A.

Philip has more experience, patience, and skill than I could ever have wished for! I’m looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship with him, and hoping that I can learn just a small part of what he knows.
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December 30, 2019
Hired on Lessons

KM

Kate M.

Philip is extremely knowledgable regarding the issues i wanted to focus on; pattern adjustment so it will fit! the location was convenient and he is very patient. He was also fair in his pricing
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March 20, 2019
Hired on Lessons

KM

Kate M.

March 20, 2019
Hired on Lessons

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Ellen

What is so wonderful about Philip Sawyers classes are that while you are learning pattern making, he is telling you about different fabrics, the evolution of styles. Philip is a wealth of information and he shares what he knows freely. Philip is about the students and learning, he is a great teacher.
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November 09, 2018

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susan c.

I really enjoyed the class on pattern making! We all had great fun and when we struggled with the exacting of the pattern, Philip was always there to help us through, kind and smart. A wonderful way to teach those of us who had never attempted that kind of work before.
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October 07, 2018

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Maureen

Philips mastery of his subject is both broad and deep, and he generously shares his knowledge, insights and passion for design, sewing, and tailoring. He infuses all he does with an artistic sensibility, without which there can be no truly satisfying result. He is patient, kind, and encouraging. To quote someone from the Garment District in New York, He has incredible craftsmanship. I highly recommend him as a teacher.
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September 26, 2018

Frequently asked questions

First, I need to know about their experience and estimated level of ability. This can be gauged by which, and how many garments they have made, and how they came out.

Second, we need to discuss their own goals for learning, and any other options I might suggest.

Finally, we need to come up with a curriculum and schedule that will allow us to complete what we have decided on.

I do not have formal training, but have worked for various people and been mentored by others over the last 40 years. Across that time I have designed, patterned and made essentially every type of garment, for all body types. I am also trained in pattern grading, and have created all sizes for my own business.

My nominal rate is $35/hour, however a 3-hour class is $90. I can also offer 5-hour classes for someone who can demonstrate proficiency and, for example, has larger projects they want to work on. The learning process can be intense, so 3 hours is usually more suitable class length.

I began formal teaching in apparel in 2010 with the RISD Continuing Education program, at the suggestion of a good friend. Otherwise, I have been a teacher of other subjects much of my adult life.

I have worked with everyone from beginners to advanced students, and from age 18 on. In terms of skill, I've found that even if one has little to no experience in sewing, having some sort of "making" experience goes a long ways towards learning how to sew.

In terms of sewing and patternmaking, find someone with broad practical experience, who can advise you about anything you might be interested in learning. 

What do I want to get from this experience?

Am I willing to commit to doing what it takes to learn this?

Can/will I work on projects at home and practice what I'm learning?


Services offered