I was curious if anyone else uses a plotter to print patterns?

Hey Designers! 🤍 I was under the weather last week, so it took me out for a few days however I’m back and wanted to share a pricing resource I use regularly. The app is called Crafting Calculator, and it’s a great tool for designers who struggle with pricing or want to make sure their prices actually make sense. I personally use it to: ➡️Break down true material costs (main fabric, lining, notions, etc.) ➡️Factor in labor costs — whether I’m paying a seamstress or paying myself Here’s how I typically use it for custom work: 1. Cost of materials: What you’re really spending on fabric, lining, notions, and extras 2. Number of items made: I usually enter 1 for custom pieces 3. Hourly wage: Typically $25–$50/hour, depending on the complexity of the gown. This is your labor cost, so be realistic and practical 4. Retail profit: This is the sweet spot — it determines what you actually profit after all wholesale costs are covered For most of my gowns, my markup falls between 150%–300%. 🗣️You are the CEO and Only YOU can determine what PERCENTAGE is comfortable or needed to help your business run. If the cost is above what your brand normally charges try 100%. The point is to understand why you charge what you are charging not because I told you to do so ! 🫣 I hope this helps anyone who’s been second-guessing their pricing or feeling unsure about charging what their work is truly worth. 💕

what do you guys do on your spare time when still creating if you run out of materials/supplies?l and low on funds? I feel like I go crazy because I have so many ideas, sometimes I sketch BUT I HAVE TO SEW!!!

Hey designers ✂️✨ We’re officially in the middle of Prom 2026 season, and I wanted to check in with everyone. How is it going for you right now? 👇 Drop below and tell us: • Are you fully booked or still taking clients? • Are fittings running smoothly — or stressing you out? • Are clients booking early… or still trying to rush last minute? 😅 • Are you overwhelmed, behind, or actually enjoying this season? No judgment. Real answers only. If you’re struggling with anything — 📌 timelines 📌 pricing 📌 deposits 📌 difficult parents 📌 rush orders 📌 plus-size fittings 📌 pattern adjustments 📌 or just burnout this is exactly what this community is for. Comment “HELP” if you want support or feedback. Comment “WIN” if something is going really well and you want to share it. Or drop your question and let’s problem-solve together 💬🧵 Prom season can be beautiful… it literally it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Let’s finish Prom 2026 strong 💪🏾✨

Hey designers! 🧵✨ I’m planning an upcoming live sewing session where we’ll create an item from scratch — pattern → cutting → construction. Before I finalize the plan, I want your input. If there’s a garment you’d like to see made, please: 📸 Post an inspiration photo in the comments —or— 🧵 Create your own post if you can’t add photos here. This will help me plan the lesson properly and choose the best techniques to teach. For reference, I specialize in: • Ready-to-wear • Bespoke gowns (bridal, prom, formalwear) And yes — I currently have a LOT of prom gowns in production, so we can absolutely go in that direction too 😄 The floor is yours. Drop your ideas below 👇🏽