True to its name, Freesewing is free to use and completely open source. The patterns are coded in JavaScript and there’s a step by step guide that walks you through the process of creating your own pattern from scratch. Even if you’re not a coder, it’s interesting to have a look at the guide because it shows how the algorithms work. The code for the patterns, platform and website are all available on GitHub.
Joost says the main challenge to the project is “maintainer burnout”, so when people donate it’s a great morale boost. But he’s not doing it for the money and pays all the expenses out of his own pocket because he realises he is in a “privileged” position “with a good job and a roof over my head”.
All the money raised through the site is given to the charity Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors without Borders). “It makes this project socially responsible as well as fun to do. And I need that to convince myself it’s ok to spend all my time doing this, because each year, I get to write a cheque to people who need it so much more.”
To find out more about Freesewing and to get involved, visit freesewing.org
