About Great Copy Patterns

We are a small, personalized pattern company inspired by ready-to-wear apparel from designer and specialty shops.

Great Copy Patterns are current, classic in design and emphasize easy sewing techniques.  All of our patterns is multi-sized from ex-small to ex-large. We also include a "check your size" box to help determine size selection. Most patterns have the option to be cut but some need to be traced. We pride ourselves on easy to understand instructions that accompany each pattern

We got our start in 1986 when Ruthann Spiegelhoff, the original owner, designed a complete line of "Units" patterns.  Following the success of "Units", Ruthann began copying ready-to-wear designs from upscale boutiques and specialty stores.

She continued designing patterns and in 1994 published her first book, "Polarfleece Pizzazz" and two years later, "More Polarfleece Pizzazz." Both are best sellers for outerwear and accessory design, with nearly 100,000 in print.

Ruthann retired in 2000 selling the store and pattern company.  Great Copy Patterns became available again and was purchased in October 2004 by Pattie Otto, who had worked for the Spiegelhoff's since 1986. She continues the line by selecting classic styles with a great fit that are quick and easy to sew using ready-to-wear shortcuts.

Drawing from a lifetime of sewing, Pattie started an alterations business in 1982 but soon realized a passion for teaching others to sew. She has taught extensively over the years, with her favorite classes being machine embroidery, heirloom work, silk ribbon embroidery by machine, serger techniques, swim & action wear, and fitting seminars.  Pattie has also designed and coordinated production for a small swimwear manufacturer.

Currently she is author and designer for Embroidery Club which meets bi-monthly in southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. She also operates Embroidery Club by Mail - a corresponding bi-monthly publication.  Both clubs feature her original embroidery designs.

Her enthusiasm for fabric, texture, pattern design and construction is evident in all aspects of her sewing.  You will be seeing the impact of this enthusiasm if you visit our site on a regular basis.  After rather sporadic introductions of new patterns during the past few years, the Great Copy Patterns line will now be expanding throughout the year to help you keep looking your best.

Pattie is a life-long resident of southeastern Wisconsin. She lives in the country with her husband and business partner, Rick, and is the mother of four children.