Today we’d like to introduce you to Brad Schultz.
Hi Brad, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
As a boy, I was on the hunt for treasure like any other. Little did I know that my mom’s ‘stash’ of half-cut fabrics and sewing patterns would be what sparked my lifelong journey into creativity! Even after 3 decades, those materials in her closet remain endlessly appealing to me – whether it’s because of their vibrantly colored textiles or some unknown source of pure creative energy. But, growing up in a very conservative family and area led to distinct gender roles, and sewing wasn’t on the list deemed socially acceptable for boys.
Who knew my Granny would become an ally in the fight against gender roles?! With her help, I was able to pursue a craft that felt liberating and fulfilled some of our wildest Halloween costume ideas. From spooky ghosts to King’s robes and Elvis jumpsuits–my creative pursuits were never judged or restricted by her. Sewing gave me purpose as I taught myself through trial and error, crafting costumes even Captain Jack Sparrow himself would be envious of.
Sewing has been a powerful passage of discovery and expression for me – literally creating the clothing I wear allows my personality to shine through. As someone who was raised with rigid gender expectations, this freedom initially left me feeling unsure about myself and what life held in store. That uncertainty eventually led to an awakening though; it allowed for self-reflection that helped build up confidence I wasn’t sure existed within me. The things that hindered my confidence then are the same things that strengthen my confidence and allow me to share my true personality now.
As an adult, I channeled all my creative energy into sewing, and although it took me a while to create something I was truly proud of, eventually that hard work paid off. Through many long nights in the studio spent stitching together fabric with love and passion- before too long I had started designing costumes for event production companies which blossomed even further into creating custom bridal gowns. These days I primarily sew for myself and share my journey on my blog and social media.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Growing up in a traditional home means there’s pressure to conform—and that often doesn’t leave much room for creative expression. As someone who wanted to learn how to sew, I had an extra hurdle: my gender and social acceptance. Perfectionism can be helpful but with learning something new it was paralyzing; every mistake felt like the end of world! My perfectionism often hindered my motivation and momentum. Then came sewing commissions which turned this passion into work… Thankfully creativity won out and now I’m able to enjoy and share my journey! My journey has been somewhat of a roller coaster of highs and lows, but the key to true happiness lies in striking an equilibrium between both. I’ve learned to embrace every twist, turn, and unexpected detour – they’ll take me exactly where I need to go!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Through my years of expertise, I’ve done it all – from designing show-stopping costumes to crafting bespoke bridal gowns. But now it’s time for me to sew just for myself! Combining engineering and fashion trends with a splash of creativity, I sew and use clothing as an expression tool so the real me can shine through and inspire others to do the same. My journey has been one full of lessons learned but most importantly that being authentically you is worth more than anything else in this world; something which I’m proudest about achieving on my own.
In addition, I have been a public-school teacher for 16 years and am uniquely equipped to show others the ins and outs of sewing. From fundamentals to more complex techniques – no matter what level you’re at – I’m here for all your stitching needs! Plus, with an inside look into how and why I make certain choices during design processes, online followers can learn from first-hand experience. Sharing my creative journey online is so rewarding! I love using bold colors and daring style to meld together a wardrobe that wholly reflects who I am. Plus, it’s an amazing feeling helping others bring their unique styles to life by teaching them how to make totally ‘them’ pieces through sewing patterns and fabric – regardless of the gender labels on packages!
What do you think about luck?
With luck and destiny playing a part, I’ve built my sewing career with hours of practice to hone in on my skills. As the universe would have it, while volunteering at a charity event, I was introduced to an event production company owner who hired me for designing costumes. From costume-making at events, I moved on to custom bridal gowns for weddings–an invaluable experience where I honed what skills remained from home sewing classes growing up! To this day I continue making beautiful creations focused mostly toward the home sewing community: two years ago, even the prestigious New York Times noticed and featured me and some of my work in an article about men who sew.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bradschultzdesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradschultzdesign
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brad.schultz.design/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcE3svCdjQEpbvi8DyLWr7g
