Tanya Knannlein

I've been teaching in the School of Apparel Design & Development at Seattle Central College for over 10 years and have a background as a clothing and textile designer.  My areas of teaching specialty are design, textiles and technology.  In 2023, I earned a Master’s Degree focusing on sustainable fashion at the University of Applied Sciences in Berlin. 

Creation is an avocation for me, whether it be textile designs, sweaters, drawings or pottery. Reconciling this need with the urgency of economic, social and ecological sustainability is my current focus.

For my thesis, I researched sustainable practices in apparel with the aim to educate students on these topics. I created a collection as proof of concept which explores circular design principles, upcycling and machine knitting.

In my spare time I spend time with my beloved family and dog, and go out dancing to rockabilly or western swing music. 

My industry experience includes freelance textile design, design consulting for companies, and instructing professionals in use of design technology. Prior to teaching, I held several roles at Tommy Bahama, building to lead the men’s design team as Product Manager. Additionally, I have worked for several small clothing and equipment manufacturers which has given me knowledge of production manufacturing processes in sweater knits and technical diving gear in addition to sportwear.

Freelance Design and Instruction ::  2000-Present  :: Clients include Tommy Bahama, Eddie Bauer, Cascade Designs, buddingSTEM 

Seattle Central College School of Apparel Design & Development Lead Coordinator and Instructor :: 1998-Present :: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, textile structures and surface design, collection design, portfolio and presentation, fashion history

Men’s Design Product Manager Tommy Bahama :: 1999-2000

Design Computer Specialist Tommy Bahama :: 1998-1999

Designer Tommy Bahama :: 1995-1998

Assistant Designer Sun Sportswear :: 1994-1995

Other experience:

Freelance Pattern and Sewing Uno/Duo

Design Assistant Warm Heart, Children's Sweaters and Sportswear

Sewing Technician and Technical Writing, KME Diving Suits