Jonnie Rettele

Jonnie Rettele is a designer and educator with over twenty years of professional practice in collection design and product development. Her background spans leading an independent menswear brand, developing a size-inclusive digital sewing pattern business, and exploring craft-based arts through original quilt design. She focuses on equipping individuals with the skills to create their own clothing and sewn goods. Straddling the line between independent making and commercial production, she translates complex technical processes for both personal practitioners and those entering the fashion industry.

I specialize in translating complex technical processes for diverse audiences. My teaching experience has organically evolved through community education, hands-on craft intensives, and mentorship. Because my career bridges commercial industry standards and independent craft, I am uniquely positioned to support a wide range of students. Whether I am guiding personal practitioners seeking to create garments for themselves or mentoring those preparing to enter the fashion industry, my goal is to foster an inclusive, conscientious educational environment. By sharing not only practical technical skills—such as pattern manipulation and garment construction—but also the critical thinking that underlies thoughtful design, I strive to help every student develop their unique design voice.