Hi! I'm Ari.

I started my formal artistic education with an undergraduate degree in studio arts from Kutztown University in 2019. After winning a scholarship prize for my painting work, I studied and graduated with my Masters in Fine Art (MFA) from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in 2021. Working creatively has always been a huge part of my life, and whether it is painting, drawing or sewing, I have always had a passion for making.

I've been playing with needles and thread since I was a little girl. My first projects were crudely sewn pillows, about the right size for an American Girl Doll and not much else, lovingly gifted to my grandmothers. From there, I cultivated a love of sewing, making quilts in high school and learning from my Mémé (which is French for Grandma, pronounced may-may). Mémé was a seamstress, and made her own clothes when she was younger, as well as the clothes for her three children. Her always moving, work-worn hands have taught me many lessons. She serves as an inspiration, and reminds me to always take my time and put my best work forward.

My desire to sew my own clothes arose from a need; I found that clothes off the rack were often ill fitting and designed on and for much smaller bodies. I was tired of my clothes not draping right, or my waistband cutting into my stomach when I sat down. I decided clothes should fit me, not the other way around. As I began sewing and wearing my own clothes, my confidence grew; I cherished every time I got a compliment and was able to reply "oh this? Yes, I made it!" with a smile on my face.

I founded Woad and Madder with a goal of providing beginner-friendly patterns in a size-inclusive range, for every body. My patterns will help you learn skills that lead you from beginner to intermediate. Each pattern will teach you a new specific skill, such as the burrito method or how to make gathers or slash pockets. I'm so excited to have you on this journey with me!