Makeshift Apparel is a cool Arizona-based indie label specializing in handmade, reconstructed and hand screen-printed clothing and accessories. We love these fresh, one-of-a-kind designs, and we recently chatted with Makeshift's young designer, Amanda Wesselman, to find out more about her work.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. My name is Amanda Wesselman, I'm 20 years old and I'm from Gilbert, Arizona. I love tattoos and sewing, hence my sewing sleeve! I make one of a kind shirts, dresses, and purses, as well as hand screen printed shirts.



How did you get started as a designer? It all started with me cutting up my clothes in junior high and reconstructing them using hand stitching. Then I got a sewing machine and over the years, the clothes I made became more advanced. I really loved it and decided to take some sewing classes so my designs were more professional.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Patience is a virtue! Stay motivated, don't give up! Also check out the tutorials on craftster.org, they can teach you some really good techniques.

What inspires your work? Thrash metal gets my creative juices flowing!

Who are your favorite designers? I love Joodito and Supayana's designs!

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? For winter -- leggings, cardigans, boots, and something handmade!

Where can people find your work?
makeshiftapparel.etsy.com
www.myspace.com/makeshiftapparel

Anything else? Save the dinosaurs!

We love all of the amazing independent designers out there and we wanted to find out more about what makes these creative types tick. If you do too, check out more of our Indie Designer Interviews.