Hi, I'm Tess

I’m a fashion designer, pattern maker and sewist, based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Sewing has been a constant throughout my life and career. I grew up sewing and studied Fashion Design in New Zealand before working in the fashion industry across design, production and manufacturing. After moving to Vietnam, I spent years working closely with factories and garment production, gaining a real understanding of how clothing is designed, constructed and brought to life.

Tess Jean Patterns grew from my desire to bring all of that experience into the sewing room, creating modern, thoughtfully designed patterns that are approachable for sewists of all levels.

THE PATTERNS

Tess Jean Patterns is a growing collection of designer-led PDF sewing patterns, created for sewists who want to make beautiful, wearable clothes with a little more consideration behind them.

At the heart of Tess Jean Patterns is thoughtful design. I’ve always been drawn to garments where you can see the consideration behind the design, a strong silhouette, beautiful proportions, an interesting construction detail or a shape that feels fresh and modern.

I wanted to bring that designer-led perspective to sewing patterns, combined with a strong focus on fit and how the finished garment will actually be worn. Every pattern is developed, tested and refined multiple times before being released, with clear written instructions and accompanying YouTube tutorials to guide you through the process.

SEW LEARN & MAKE

Alongside the patterns, I share free sewing tutorials, techniques and video content on my YouTube channel to help you build your skills and get more from your sewing.

Find my YouTube channel here

I love sharing the things I’ve learnt throughout my career, from pattern cutting and garment construction to the small techniques that can make a big difference to the finished piece.

The pattern library is still growing, with plenty more designs, tutorials and resources to come.

LET'S CONNECT

One of my favourite parts of this work is connecting with fellow sewists from around the world! If you have a question, need a little help with a pattern, or just want to say hello, you can find me on Instagram or email hello@tessjean.com