Closet Core Patterns (formerly Closet Case Patterns) is a sewing pattern design and education company aimed at giving modern makers the tools and techniques to create the wardrobe of their dreams. Our bilingual sewing patterns, step-by-step tutorials, and obsessively clear online courses are intentionally changing the way you build comfort, joy, and ease into your closet.
With a chic, modern aesthetic, our designs will help you create beautiful, functional and infinitely wearable garments you’ll reach for again and again. Each pattern is professionally drafted and graded, and is accompanied by clear, detailed instructions to help you sew your dream wardrobe with confidence.
Meet our Founder, Heather Lou
I’m Heather Lou, owner of Closet Core Patterns, and sewing is my life (just ask my spaniel Harry; he’s almost always covered in thread).
Perhaps like you, I was once overwhelmed by the prospect of sewing. Back in 2011, I was a commercial interior designer who was obsessed with fashion. My closet was jammed with ill-fitting clothes I didn’t wear, my credit card was maxed out from too many shopping sprees, and I didn’t feel connected to or creatively inspired by my wardrobe.
I knew I had to make a change, so I created a challenge for myself: for one year, the only new things that would enter my closet would be things that I made with my own two hands. I didn’t really know how to sew outside modifying the occasional vintage dress, but committing to this goal ended up radically transforming my life in every possible way. Every time I sat down at my sewing machine with a new project, I discovered a deep well of creativity, resilience and joy. Sewing felt revolutionary and expressive, a technical skill and a timeless art form rolled into one, a way to create totally one of a kind, truly “me” garments, that felt so much more meaningful and personal than anything I could ever buy in a store.
The lessons grew deeper. I learned how to make clothes that fit me perfectly, totally transforming my relationship with my body (we only get one chance in these human suits, and sewing taught me to accept and love what I have, just as it is). I learned to grow and push myself to constantly learn new things, which gave me a sense of confidence and faith in myself I had never experienced before. I established deep, meaningful connections with sewists around the world, discovering a supportive community and lifelong friendships. Sewing became the positive feedback loop that I couldn’t stop thinking about and the creative outlet that I desperately needed.
The hours I spent in front of my sewing machine made it more and more clear that my hobby had out-grown my full-time design job. Frustrated by the empty and often destructive fast fashion industry – and mindful of the pressing need for chic sewing patterns and clear instructions for the modern sewing movement – I made the decision to launch Closet Core Patterns as a full-time business. Since then, I’ve taught sewing around the world, and we’ve released everything from swimsuits to tailored blazers, always focused on creating the best sewing patterns and educational resources on the market.
These days, I spend most of my free time filling in my wardrobe with handmade one-of-a-kind creations, travelling for inspiration, and cozying up at home with my beloved pup, a great book and a strong cup of tea. I hope that through reading my own story, you’re inspired to fearlessly eliminate what no longer serves you, and embrace a lifestyle of personal expression that fits you like a glove.
If you'd like to learn more about my sewing philosophy and how Closet Core Patterns works, check out my interview with the Love to Sew podcast here. You can see all the clothing I've lovingly sewn over the years here.
Our Team
The organizational maestro of the CCP team, our operations manager Alexis oversees all pattern production and sample sewing and brings her laser eyes to every detail behind the scenes. She's also a devoted cat mom, meticulous sewist, lover of homemade pasta and eco-conscious scrap buster.
Celine is our in-house technical design expert, responsible for drafting patterns, figuring out complex construction details, resolving fit issues and ensuring our notches are always perfectly matched up. Originally from France with a degree in fashion design, she is also a travelling free spirit and loving mom.
Our resident idea factory, Amy oversees our social media channels, marketing plans and editorial calendar and dreams up the best blog tutorials. A former dancer, dedicated mom to two boys and the thriftiest maker alive, she can nearly always be found at home making magic out of cast-offs.
As our shipping coordinator, Rika ensures your packages arrive on time and in one piece, in addition to holding down the fort at our Montreal studio. Thoughtful, kind and organized, she is also the team comedian, and can always make us laugh during team meetings.
Monserratt is the warm presence who answers your questions as our customer service representative. Passionate about teaching and experimental science, Monserratt will also be collaborating as Production Assistant to develop new content and courses to feed your creative minds.
