PATCHWERK

Nonconforming Sewing Patterns

Patchwerk creates nonconforming sewing patterns and guides that support experimentation over perfection. The studio’s work is video-forward and designed for makers from beginner to advanced. We are for outsider makers, neurodivergent and queer makers who prefer clear instruction and learning by doing. Patchwerk values clear guidance without gatekeeping and encourages customization, experimentation, and fun.

Founder Bio

Patchwerk was founded by Teresa Fiehn Millies. Teresa is an award-winning quilter, author, and educator, and the founder of Patchwerk. She is the creator of The Quilter’s Inspiration Deck and has exhibited work at QuiltCon and Quilt Week Paducah. Teresa has taught quilting as an adjunct professor at the College of DuPage, as well as for quilt guilds and community education programs. Her work and teaching emphasize accessibility, adaptability, and confidence-building through process-driven making.

Who We Are For

Patchwerk serves neurodivergent and queer makers from basic to advanced skill levels. The audience includes quilters and sewists who learn best visually, enjoy experimentation, and prefer adaptable instruction over rigid rules.

What We Do

• Digital sewing and quilting guides and patterns

• Video-based tutorials and process documentation

• Classes and workshops (in-person and virtual)

• Creative collaborations with publishers, brands, and organizations

Values

• No gatekeeping

• Process and experimentation over perfection

• Queer and Neurodivergent lead

• Clear, authentic instruction

Contact

For press inquiries, podcasts, events, or collaborations:

Email: Teresa.Millies@gmail.com
Social: @patch.werk