Meet Angie from Greenstyle Creations

I’ve loved following Angie’s patterns for years, she’s definitely your go-to designer if you want athletic patterns. I don’t even have to pick between kickboxing and yoga, her designs work for everything!

Angelyn Bennett is the fabulous creator of Greenstyle Creations!

Angie, what would you have done differently when you first started sewing if you knew then what you know now?

I started sewing when I was 5-6 years old.  I learned from my mother who started me hemming tea towels.  But, when I ventured into sewing clothing at the young age of 11 or 12, I didn’t pay attention to seam allowances, like at all… and I wondered why nothing fit right. It is important, trust me.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

“Hard work beats talent with talent doesn’t work hard.”  My parents always said “you can figure it out yourself if you just work on it until you get it right.”  Well, turns out they were right.

Who or what inspired you to do what you’re doing now?

My sister introduced me to the PDF pattern world 7-8 years ago.  It was such a breath of fresh air and the FB groups were so supportive.  I am so thankful to her.

What is still your biggest challenge?

Time management.  I have a lot of things going on and getting to it all is a daily challenge.  Last night’s dishes are still in the sink as I type this and it is almost noon.

What are your favorite books or magazines on sewing?

I don’t really read any books or magazines on sewing.  I have a few pattern-making reference books I refer to quite a lot but that’s about it.

What’s your best advice for handling criticism?

I take it as a chance to hone my skills. The best thing to do is listen to the criticism and use it as a chance to better your skills and yourself.  Unless it is just silly, then you should ignore it.  🙂 

How do you balance work and family demands?

Balance?  I have to think about that one.  I really try to set aside time from 3-7 to help with kids with homework or appointments and getting dinner together. I am far from perfect on this but I am doing my best just like everyone else.

Angie, how do you structure your days?

After getting the kids off to school, I always hit the gym to teach my group exercise class followed by a training a private client.  Then it is back home to work on my “day” job as an engineering consultant in the gas and oil pipeline hydraulics field.  I probably spend 5-6 hours before breaking from that for a little sewing pattern work.  Then all the sudden, the kids are walking in the door.  It only seems like they are at school for an hour or so but I guess it is already 3:00.  Homework and chores are next followed by dinner and getting everyone in bed.  When it is all settled down I have time to sew a bit or work on patterns or hydraulics as needed. 

Where and how do you work best?

Alone… always in my office or sewing room where it is nice and quiet. No music, no TV, just the click of the keyboard and mouse or the hum of the sewing machines. My sweet dog is always under the desk keeping me company..

What tools do you find indispensable when sewing?

I love my sergers, as someone who sews mostly athletic and athletic leisure clothing, that is my most used tool/machine.

What’s next for you, Angie?

Our Greenstyle team has some big plans for this year.  We are growing quickly and want to expand our line up with some unique items we hope you will love.

Thanks for letting us get to know you Angie! We can’t wait to see more patterns from you this year!

Thanks for learning about Angie, you can check out her patterns and blog here. And be sure to check out her Instagram feed (she just released a free pattern hack) here. Fun!

There will be more giveaways for the Sew Fab Bundle, be sure to stay tuned for the remaining 4 designer spotlights!

Leave us a comment about your latest sewing project! We want to hear about it. 🙂