Lisa is part of our research and development team and shares her sewing journey.

Please tell us a bit about your journey before joining JettProof. 

I studied at the School of Fashion in Newcastle, a two-year technology design course starting in 1986. In 1988, I started working with Jean Bas in high-end fashion. I started mainly on the sewing machines, but now I do more pattern-making and grading. In 1988, I competed at the Hunter region 'Work Skills Trade Olympics' and won gold, then went to the Nationals in Perth. That was a big thing for me when I was 20. About 12 years ago, when Jett was 3, I received a call from my cousin Michelle, who had developed a new compression product to help her son and wanted my help to take the product that worked so well for Jett to the rest of the world. Joining JettProof was an exciting new chapter.

Can you tell me about someone who has inspired you?

My parents have definitely inspired me. My dad comes from a background in building and architecture. He was an assistant government architect in Sydney and was awarded the Order of Australia medal in 2012 for his contribution to architecture and a book he wrote. Dad was a great listener, communicator and creative problem solver, strengths which I draw on today in my work. Also, my mum inspired me very early with her creativity and sewing skills.

Lisa with her dad

At what age did you learn to sew?

I started sewing at the age of about four. My mother bought me a tiny Singer sewing machine. I can still remember the feeling of joy discovering how this machine worked. I was so fascinated and intrigued, and I always wanted to learn more. At about seven, I remember mum teaching me to sew on a Singer treadle machine. My mum would draw lines and shapes on paper at the start, and I'd follow those lines, and later she taught me to sew clothing on a Bernina machine. My mum was always full of encouragement and praise, which helped feed my passion. That time together was very special for me.

What is your favourite product from JettProof, and why?

Definitely the JettProof singlet. It’s a unique design Michelle created specifically for her son Jett - and it’s made a real difference. I’ve seen firsthand how it’s helped him stay calm, focused, and regulated. His ongoing progress speaks volumes. Knowing this singlet has supported so many others with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and sensory challenges makes it even more special.

What does a typical day look like for you as part of the JettProof team?

I'm always working on many designs at once. They interlink, which is good because it gives you time between designs to reflect on how to improve each product. I often work on custom orders, which is valuable because they inspire new product development. There's a product I'm working on at the moment, a singlet that allows access for tube feeding. Working on a new custom pattern involves designing, cutting and taking it to the machines, sampling, documenting, photographing and trialling. Some days, I work in production and manufacturing, which I enjoy too.

Lisa designing with Michelle

What do you enjoy most about your role at JettProof?

What I enjoy most is being part of the full creative journey - from concept to finished product. I love documenting the design process through photos and solving technical challenges along the way. Design meetings are a highlight, where ideas are shared and refined as a team. There’s real satisfaction in creating meaningful, functional products that make a difference in people’s lives.

Product development is a real team effort - what's it like collaborating with others at JettProof to bring new ideas to life?

It's terrific. When working on a new product, I'll talk to the cutting and production team before I design and make a prototype to ensure a smooth flow for manufacturing. It's crucial to listen to what people say and take others' ideas on board when doing a new design. I also like involving others in the sewing team to brainstorm ideas and clarify things. It's always good to have other people help with the decisions to ensure the best outcome for the customer.

How does feedback from customers influence this process?

Feedback is vital. The tube feeding singlet I'm currently working on is a special design. It is essential to have feedback directly from the customer. I'm always chasing input from the admin team as well because it helps me improve and make things more streamlined for future products and development.

Is there a particular product you've helped develop that holds a special place in your heart?

I loved developing the bedding range, particularly the fitted sheet. The nature of all the angles, how I put them together to fit perfectly on the bed. It refers to my father's influence as an architect, looking at shapes and how things go together.

Do you have any creative habits or routines that help you think outside the box?

Yes. I call it my cup of tea moment. You pause and think about the product and how to improve it. That's why sometimes working on a few products at once is good. My cup of tea moment is when you work on something else, but you're thinking about this other product, so you're taking a moment to analyse it and make sure you think things through for the best outcome. Good design takes time.

Lisa having her cup of tea moment

If you could swap roles with anyone at JettProof for a day, who would it be and why?

Sarah from Graphic Design, I think that would be amazing. I would love to learn some of those skills.

If you could pick any JettProof product to bring to a desert island, what would it be?

Definitely, a sensory fitted sheet. It's a product I use every night, and a sensory quilt cover from the new range, which has a slight weighted feel. I'd feel very safe, secure, and relaxed. I'd hope the island would provide a mattress at the same time!

Lisa with her childhood sewing machine  - A tiny Singer machine

Is there anything else you want to share about your time at JettProof?

Thank you, Michelle, for allowing me to follow my dreams and use my skills to create amazing products I'm very proud of. To do life-changing work for others is very rewarding, especially when I receive feedback from a custom order that we've worked hard on and realise it has made a big difference to one person. Being able to come to work every day, work with a fantastic team, and do something you love is incredible.