Meet Sheila Wong — Maiwa Instructor

Among the young luminaries of the Vancouver textile scene is Sheila Wong. At the age of 18 she started her first company designing outfits and managing dance performers in her hometown of Calgary. She knew she found her métier the first time she saw an energetic audience reacting to her designs.

After completing a Bachelors of Applied Business and Entrepreneurship degree and a fashion design diploma, Sheila took on positions as studio assistant at the Fashion Exchange building, production manager at Aritzia, and instructor at Blanche Macdonald Fashion Centre and Vancouver Community College. In 2010, Sheila founded a truly unique boutique sewing studio. From pattern-drafting to final stitch, the studio provides a creative environment for all skill levels to learn fashion design techniques with personalized private instruction. The studio has been very successful and is often booked several months in advance.

What truly makes Sheila Wong stand out in the industry, however, is her desire to help other artists succeed. Sheila loves collaborating with other designers and artisans, and has this to say to anyone who has ever wanted to see their own name on a piece of clothing: “Anyone can design and construct a garment; you just need the right amount of guidance and motivation. My goal is to help inspire people to create beautiful things. If you are passionate and driven, there is no reason why you cannot be creative every day.” Sheila Wong Studios can be found at swfds.com or on Instagram at @sheilawongstudios