Rosie Kovacs is a respected design professional passionate about saving the planet through new design thinking and radical systemic change. She is an accomplished designer, entrepreneur, and leader that brings ideas to life one step at a time. Her holistic approach bridges people and processes, resulting in thoughtful outcomes that drive change and value.
Sew Valley
Co-Founder and CEO. 2017
Apparel Development + Manufacturing for Start-Ups
501c3
Rosie together with her co-founder Shailah Maynard built the only apparel development and small-batch manufacturing incubator in the Midwest. Sew Valley shares its expertise in strategy and project management for customers at the beginning stages of their sustainable apparel business. Through four areas of focus (Development, Production, Membership, and Education), Sew Valley has been able to serve local and national apparel brand start-ups while prioritizing quality over quantity. Rosie has been the catalyst to drive equipment procurement, training, production processes, and quality assurance. Her extensive knowledge of textiles and construction has enabled her to consult with each of Sew Valley’s clients in design for manufacturing, sourcing, pattern making, and CMT projects. With a multitude of local foundations and funders, Sew Valley has been able to employ and train a new generation of craftspeople, as well as educate a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Rosie continues to work with Sew Valley as a technology partner and facility for executing her client work.
“My work at Sew Valley has allowed me to put human experience into my client projects and that’s what drives a truly authentic product.”
— Rosie Kovacs // Hand chain-stitching work on hemp denim chore jacket for Rhinegeist Brewery 2018.
Brush Factory
Partner and Designer. 2009
Furniture and Cabinet Shop
After graduating from the University of Cincinnati with a design degree, Rosie opened a studio practice with her life partner Hayes Shanesy. Together they designed and built furniture and millwork for residential and commercial spaces. Rosie managed a large clientele base and grew B2B and direct customer segments. Their relentless focus on quality over quantity as well as lean manufacturing ethos has earned the Brush Factory a reputation for excellence and beautiful contemporary design work. In 2016, Rosie and Hayes won a $20,000 grant to launch a D2C made-to-order product line called “bff'“ with distribution through a digital platform and retail showroom. Hayes has taken over as sole owner and continues to deliver high-quality custom cabinets and furniture made of domestically sourced hardwoods and sheet goods.
