Personal Background
Ellene, as we dive into your story, could you provide a snapshot of who you are and take us on the journey that led you to where you are today?
I live in the midwest with my husband Kevin, who is a wood artist, and we are now empty nesters. I was an art teacher for several years and now I teach ESL in a middle school.
Quilting Journey
When and how did you start quilting? What drew you to quilting as a form of expression?
I have been sewing since the age of 6, and in my past work I created garments for fashion collections. When I discovered modern quilting, I fell completely in love. A love of fabric is at the root of everything I do. I have been creating different types of surface design on fabric for a long time, and then started using these fabrics in my quilts. I love the freedom in the art of quilting, because I can do any style and add any details that I can dream up.
Pattern Designing
What inspired you to start designing quilt patterns? How do you approach the creative process of designing a new pattern?
As I began quilting more and more, I realized I was mostly creating my own designs rather than sewing other people’s patterns, so I decided to learn the software and produce the patterns in a more polished way. I enjoy drawing my ideas in my sketchbook and then creating the Adobe Illustrator final version for the sellable pattern.
Style and Aesthetics
How would you define your pattern style? Are there specific themes or elements that consistently appear in your designs?
I enjoy the problem solving aspect of designing a quilt pattern. My style is something that may look complex, but can be broken down into doable steps. I design wall hangings for the most part, and have been exploring different ways to use the circle structure in a quilt design. I did weaving and macrame before I became a quilter, so I invented a way to add macrame string to the edges of my quilts.
Color
How does color play a role in your pattern designing? Do you have a favorite color? Are there certain color combinations you find particularly appealing?
My favorite color is black. To me, black is modern, elegant and striking, and helps any other color stand out. My all time favorite color combination is black and ivory (specifically a tea stained ivory). In my art teaching days, my classroom was not styled in bright colors, but in black with neutrals, so that the student artworks would be the colorful part.
Business Activities
Apart from designing patterns, what other activities are integral to your quilting business?
(Membership, notions, courses, etc)
I am creating some courses that will teach my macrame + quilts technique, and I am designing a few fabric collections as well. Since surface design plays such a huge role in my work, I cannot wait to have some of my fabric designs commercially available.
Online Presence
Where can people find your work online? (Website, social media handles, online marketplaces). How do you use online platforms to connect with your audience and fellow quilters?
My website is www.BraveNouvelle.com and my instagram handle is @BraveNouvelle. I share studio happenings and behind the scenes fabric and quilty fun on instagram and through my email newsletter.
Upcoming Projects
Can you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or designs you’re working on? Any exciting collaborations or events?
Upcoming quilt patterns include a few traditionally pieced curves and some ice dyed fabrics!
