Tasmania once possessed a vibrant textile industry with locally grown and processed wool turned into myriad products. There were great names, among them Coats Patons and Sheridan, who had production facilities in Tasmania. All that remains today is the Waverley Woollen Mill, an under-utilised remnant of what once was; globalisation having spelled the end for all the rest. With the decline of the industry, also came an increase in joblessness and a lack of opportunities in the State, for youths in particular.

Rudolf was one of those youths some twenty-odd years ago, who left Tasmania to seek his fortune elsewhere. Now that he is back, he is making an effort to establish a local, decentralised textile industry under the banner of ‘Garment Makers of Tasmania’. The aim is to connect skilled people with those who need to have things made. For more information or to become part of the network, please click here.

Services for fashion industry and -students


Rudolf brings a wealth of skills and experience to the table and he is available for hire to clothing manufacturers and fashion school students alike. On offer are pattern- and sample making, product development and refinement and a consultation service for those seeking advice on how to go about starting or managing their own fashion label. Rudolf has worked on many a fashion student’s end of year collection in the past.

Initial consultations are always free of charge. Once it has been established what your needs are, a quote can be given for the work to be performed. Charges for each of these services is based on AU$60.00 per hour. Please contact Rudolf to obtain ask advice or to make an appointment.

Pattern Making

The pattern is equivalent to an architect’s plans for a building. It is where the designer’s vision is translated and the garment’s construction is planned and engineered.

Making it up into preliminary test garments, called toiles, that are tried on a model at crucial stages ensures the perfect fit. Exact positions for details such as pockets, collars and hemlines are also decided upon at this time.

Taking into account the nature of the fabrics that are to be used , the finished pattern must be precise right down to correct labelling of the pieces.
Sample Making

Following on from the pattern is the first sample made in the correct fabric. Rudolf can either work from patterns he has made or from ones you supply.

This is the process where production techniques are tried and the order of assembly planned. Any adjustments required to be made to the pattern are noted at this stage.

A final fitting on a model will be required before the sample can be approved  for production.
Consultation Service

When you are considering setting up your own fashion label, there are countless hurdles to be considered.

To better understand what you should expect to encounter on such a venture, you will do well to consult someone with experience.

Share in Rudolf’s knowledge and let him assist you with ideas and recommendations