My name is Andrea Patterson. I'm a native Charlottean with a deep love for the environment, community, and the arts. I started sewing out of a desire for more functionality and customization when it comes to apparel. I'm a partially self-taught sewing artist, and I also attended CPCC where I expanded my skills by learning pattern customization and earned a Professional Alterations Certification in 2023. I'm enthusiastic about sharing knowledge that empowers people to do more with less. My thoughtful and collaborative approach to understanding the "why" behind what we do makes me effective teacher. Using my talents my main focus will be on supporting our community of often overlooked and underserved individuals, by working with what we've already got, each other. I will be hosting a beginners sewing series named "Out tha' Box" to encourage home sewers to get their machine out of the box in their closets. I will also be hosting various workshops that focus on functional goods and upcycling. Funky Sweatshop is a co-owner of The Mill, a sustainable fashion & textile diversion company located at Innovation Barn in Charlotte, NC.