We recently connected with Julie Keller and have shared our conversation below.
Julie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I started drawing fashions as a kid and sewing as a teenager (taking home economics the max I could). I then went to Bauder college for fashion design and while attending school I worked at a tailoring shop and interned with the designer DarylK in NYC. While my sewing skills increased immensely in Fashion design school the most important thing I learned was clothing construction and creating sewing patterns. Knowing how to make almost anything and not having to rely on patterns and tutorials is very freeing. There are no limits to my creativity and I am confident in my craft rather than worrying if I am doing it the right way or not. The right way is the one that accomplishes my vision.
I later learned to knit by taking a knitting class. I fell in love with both knitting and crochet and have learned via videos and online resources since my class. Luckily with my background in fashion design my skills easily transferred to fiber arts and I currently make all my own patterns for my designs in both Knitting and sewing. My biggest regret is not learning knitting and crochet earlier. I think the reason I did not learn it earlier was fashion design is really thought of as sewing not knitwear, despite the fact they compliment each other well. I approach knitwear different then most designers because of my background as well as sewing. The added complexity of my skills is what now sets my designs apart.
I would urge other artists to consider if there are any new skill they could learn that might compliment their work and help them create a style that is even more unique compared to other artists.
Julie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I created Ornute after graduating from fashion design school. It originally started as a lingerie line sold out of a boutique in Atlanta. Since then Ornute has evolved into a fashion clothing and accessory brand sold exclusively on Etsy.
Ornute’s designs are unique, comfy, and effortless. My cold weather accessories keep you warm and looking cute. And my ponchos, capes, shrugs, and cardigans are a great addition to any wardrobe. They can be dressed up for a special occasion, date night, or down for everyday over a tank top.
My knitwear is unique in it’s fit. Most knitwear patterns are simple in their construction and are shapeless and rely on draping, stretch and gravity to shape it. Think oversized, dropped shoulders, and extra comfy fit. This fit can result in shrugs that fall off your shoulders or has the armhole and sleeves starting almost to your elbows.
Since I create sewing patterns and working with fabric with no stretch, I am use to shaping items more. I love the comfort of oversized less shaped items but also like elements of a tailored fitted item. I often blend the two fits making my designs even more unique. This results in some extra comfort and hides possible problem areas but fits so much better. I also design with universally flattering fits wherever possible. I want my designs to make my customers feel comfortable and make them look their best.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Knowing my customers love my creations and often come back again to buy more to give as gifts to family and friends is definitely rewarding.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
I absolutely believe in the 10,000 hr theory Malcom Gladwell proposes in his book “Outliers”. I feel like it probably took that long to master my crafts.
“The 10x Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure” by Grant Cardone
It’s easy to get in a rut and to think small as a small business. This book advocates for setting goals and taking actions that are 10 times greater than what you believe is possible or necessary for success. In doing this you are forced to truly think how would you accomplish this goal, what would it look like, etc.
“The Magic of Thinking Big”by David J. Schwartz
Another book that challenges you to think big. This one is an oldie but a classic. The author believes that instead of using excuses one should focus on solutions and take action. Replace excuses with proactive strategies, develop resilience, think positive, believe in yourself, set big goals, focus on success not failure, and adopt a mindset of continuous learning.
“The 80/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with Less” by Richard Koch. Also known as the Pareto Principle. 80% of outcomes (or outputs) result from 20% of all causes (or inputs) for any given event. This book explores how to identify and focus on the 20% of efforts that yield the most significant results, helping individuals and businesses achieve more with less effort.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ornute.etsy.com
- Instagram: Ornute
- Facebook: Ornute
Image Credits
Images the property of Ornute