Meet Kristina | Maker of things and Technical Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristina, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Over the years I’ve realized that work life balance is essential for my mental health and for my happiness. I’ve had jobs where I worked long hours, which led to a complete burn out. And even after hours my mind would be completely engulfed in work. Which in turn led to me losing my creative energy. Oftentimes all I could wish for would be some time behind my sewing machine, and when I had time I couldn’t create anything. My sewjo (sewing mojo) was gone. Sometimes I would think how nice it must be to be a trust fund baby. But then the pandemic gave some of us a new perspective on life. After I left my job I’ve had nothing but time. I don’t sell my creations. I sew for myself in a pursuit to make a 100% self-made wardrobe. One might think I could’ve achieved that during lockdown, but as it turns out without the daily structure and routine of my day job I couldn’t master the dedication and stamina to keep creating. Pretty soon the gravity of my couch became overwhelming.
Currently, I’m working as a technical designer. The hours are still long, but I’m finally doing something I love and enjoy. I think I’m very lucky to love what I do for a living. If that’s not the case for you, then fill your after work hours with things that bring you joy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In school I studied journalism, but it wasn’t until a few years after graduation that I discovered my passion for sewing and making things. I signed up for Patternmaking classes at NYC’s Fashion Institute of Technology. With each course I took, I wanted to branch out and learn more things. It was a rather pricey investment into something that was only a hobby. Let’s not forget the cost of special equipment, sewing machines and fabrics. I would’ve never thought that I’d get a job in the fashion industry, but I guess all those investments were not in vein. Besides, I’ve always believed that investing in yourself is the best investment there is.
I work as a technical designer for a special occasion evening wear company. In a nutshell, it’s the technical designer’s job to perfect the fit of the garment. We conduct the live model fittings and then work closely with the factories, sending them pictures and detailed notes on how to correct the pattern and fit.
If my job wasn’t already cool enough, we also get to keep some of the dresses before they go to the sample sale.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When people visit New York they tend to stay in Manhattan. My heart, however, belongs to Brooklyn. There are so many places and things to do and to see there. The best Thai is at Dekalb market, a family run spot called Thank You Come Again. Brooklyn Promenade – breathtaking views, and the Brooklyn Bridge pier is right next to it. Industry City in Sunset Park is a Mecca for creative souls. And the food spots there are just on point. And then as a bargain hunter and a do-gooder I love Fabscrap at Brooklyn Army Terminal. You get free fabric for volunteering, which is a win-win for me.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My love for fashion and sewing I’ve inherited from my grandma. The knack for sewing is something that almost every Eastern European woman can attest to, but knowing how to sew and loving sewing are two different things. I learned how to sew when I was little but I didn’t love it till I was 25. Same as my grandma, I love bright and bold colors, loud prints and all shiny things. I still raid her closet whenever I visit.

Instagram: @i_hand_made_it