In burda Foto, users from around the world show how creative they are. One good example is Claudia Scholl (User name: ClaScho) from Nürnberg, Germany. Even as a girl, this student of business administration designed imaginative princess dresses and opulent gowns on paper. Today, this talented 22 year old hobby seamstress designs and sews sophisticated dream gowns – such as this glittering fire-red gown with tulle train. burdafashion.com talked to the creative young woman about her greatest passion – sewing!

When did you learn to sew??
I began my first sewing attempts when I was about twelve years old. My mother wasn't very enthusiastic about it, because I cut up many of my clothes. Then I couldn't wear the results and I also couldn't return them to their original state! In the course of the years, I learned a lot through “learning by doing“ – and I also learned a lot from my grandmother. Today I can do what I always dreamed of doing – design and sew bridal and evening gowns with glitter and glamour.

How many garments do you sew a year?
Since I became self-employed, in addition to going to the university, I don't sew so much for myself – I just don't have the time. Throughout the year I sew roughly 20 evening and/or bridal gowns. I also sew quite a bit for ballroom dancers – for competitions and for hobby dancers – for International standard, International Latin, rock´n´roll, and also for groups in the various dance categories.

What do you like to sew best?
My biggest passion is without a doubt, Haute Couture. In general, this is the term used to describe evening and bridal gowns of an unusually high quality and level of design. I can give my creativity free rein as far as color, form, fabric, and embellishments – such as rhinestones, beads, sequins, feathers, etc. – are concerned.

Why is sewing special for you?
When I sew, I can turn all my ideas – including crazy ideas – into reality. It's a wonderful feeling to make these fabric dreams come true. And I can see the results immediately. Of course, I work many hours on such a gown, but with each additional hour, I see the dream getting closer to the ballroom.

For which occasion was this dress sewn?
I designed and sewed this dress for a competition in the “Alten Oper” in Frankfurt, Germany. The photo was made in a club in Straubing. For this dress, I changed a simple evening gown pattern (for example, pattern 8320) according to my own design.