Upon entering April’s world one thing is clear, she lives and breathes in a symphony of textiles; bolts and stacks of remnants fill her atelier. The most amazing thing is her deft hand at pattern, texture and colors. She is a master composer, creating a color palette that is uniquely hers. Inspired by the visuals of daily beauty, April often finds herself delighting in a state of constant creativity. An artisan whose designs possess a unique spirit, narrative and intention.
April's journey began in the Miracle Mile, an eclectic neighborhood in the center of Los Angeles. It was here at home where her early designs were born, as the recipient of duplicate hand-me-downs from older twin sisters, she began to make her own custom garments, turning them into the latest fashion. An artisan was born.
After her aunt who studied fashion design at the Art institute of Chicago, recognized her interest and talent, she began to teach April the sewing basics. April spent endless hours on a borrowed Necchi sewing machine making clothes for herself and later for friends and family. Improving and improvising on standard patterns, reusing remnants and used items given to her, she developed her love for crafting special pieces by mixing and pairing unexpected textures, patterns & colors of the old and new.
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While attending Xavier University of Louisiana and with a new sewing machine to create with, April set out impressing her friends with unique and impeccably constructed garments.
April Lynn Jones-Sellers, Artisan
With 20 plus years of design experience as a Women’s Apparel Designer for ASOD, Children’s Clothing Designer for Raindrops, freelance Costume Designer, Stylist and Head Dresser for Nordstrom Department Stores- Los Angeles region, Interior Designer, Textile Specialist -Pacific Design Center Los Angeles, Fashion Show Producer and most recently West Elm Local - Featured Artist: Designers and Makers, Los Angeles. The Oaktown Collection can now be seen at the Oakland Museum of California. April is building on what began at home into a tree with many branches.
"We are all put on this earth to make a difference. The passion and power that radiates from artistic endeavors connects the human spirit. Burlap and Leather designs are intended to make a positive impact on the receiver. Every item is born from a place of purpose and intention. Focus on that which you find beautiful and you will soon be drawn to your next meaningful endeavor."
All Wool and a Yard Wide
April Lynn Jones-Sellers