Designer Tidbits: Debbie Mumm

We are hip hopping right into Spring! The sound of playful frogs, the sweet smell of flowers and feel of the gardens in Debbie Mumm's Hip Hop Garden are perfect for Springtime sewing. Debbie is here to talk with us about Hip Hop Garden, her latest collection for South Sea Imports.

Q: Where did you find your original inspiration for Hip Hop Garden?
A: I love playful gardens with colorful, decorative pots, wheelbarrows, watering cans, bugs and of course flowers. My goal was to create a spring line with a fresh, playful look.

Q: What was your “aha” moment in designing this collection?
A: My "aha" moment in designing this collection was adding the frogs. It brought the hip-hop energy that the group needed.

Q: Tell me about your sewing machines. What kinds do you have and how many?
A: I typically use Bernina Sewing machines. Great machines!

Q: What is your favorite part of the fabric industry?
A: Designing is my favorite part. It does feel a little like Christmas when we receive a box with our fabric samples in them. It's a combination of excitement and relief when I see how beautifully they turn out. That is pretty fun too!

Q: From what aspect of your life do you draw creativity?
A: I just like looking at things and observing trends in art, color and patterns for inspiration. I'm always inspired by what appeals to me and what I believe will appeal to others.

Q: What is your favorite print in the collection?
A: You want me to pick just one?! I really like the playful dot (in brown, cream and yellow) - it just makes me happy to look at it. And the large sampler toss with frogs, pots and a loaded wheelbarrow (in cream and blue) is also a favorite because it really tells the story of this garden collection.

Q: What is the most challenging part of the design process?
A: Sometimes I get a little frustrated when we review the strike-offs when the printing mill hasn't gotten it correct. We sometimes need to go back and forth a few times before it's right. Really though, I have no complaints about what I get to do!