Submit a Pattern (or Article)

We are no longer accepting new patterns or article submissions. After more than a decade of publishing, Make Modern is winding down. Issue 73, due in November 2026, will be our final issue – and our schedule for remaining issues is now full.

To every designer and writer who has contributed to Make Modern over the years: thank you! You are the heart and soul of this magazine, and we are SO proud of what we have built together 💛

🗓️ For Current Contributors – Deadlines

If you already have a project scheduled with us, here are the remaining contributor deadlines:

• Issue 70 (May/Jun 2026) – 15 March 2026
• Issue 71 (Jul/Aug 2026) – 15 May 2026
• Issue 72 (Sep/Oct 2026) – 15 July 2026
• Issue 73 (Nov/Dec 2026) – 15 September 2026

✅ For Current Contributors – Submission Checklist  

Already been given the green light? Hooray! 🥳 Here’s what you need to send us:

• Write Your Pattern: Use the Word Doc Template or PDF Template to write your instructions. Keep it simple – no need to include images in your text or fancy formatting – we’ll handle that. You can include a separate PDF if it helps to show layout or structure. We have basic instructions for basting and binding so don’t include these unless you wish to showcase your method. Note: We may edit your pattern for clarity and to match our magazine’s style.
• Take High-Quality Photos: 
  • At least four high-res, uncropped images of your finished quilt
  • One portrait-style shot for the project cover
  • Close-up shots of key details or special features
  • Step-by-step photos (if required) – use a light backgrounds (e.g. white cardboard, not your cutting mat)
  • 📷 Check out Quilt Photography Hints & Tips. More is ALWAYS better!
• Create Digital Diagrams (if required): Label clearly (e.g. “Diagram 1”) and refer to them by name in your instructions. Submit as JPG or PNG files.
• Create Templates (if required): Templates should fit on a 7 ¾” x 10” page for easy printing, include a ¼” seam allowance and a 1″ test box, and submit as a PDF. Label templates clearly in plain Arial font with just the template name (e.g. Template A) – no logos, pattern names, or fancy fonts needed.
• Send a Headshot: A photo of you with your quilt, or at your sewing machine – friendly and real!
• Add a Short Bio: A sentence or two about yourself, plus your location and social handles.

Send your files to Our Submissions Team and get excited to see your work in our magazine!

💸 Payment Details

You will receive a free digital copy of the issue your project appears in, plus payment in Australian dollars after publication.

Pattern Rates: 

• Small projects (e.g. mini quilts under 30″, cushions, bags): AU$250
• Small quilts (30-50″ square): AU$275
• Large quilts (over 50″): AU$325
• Cover quilt bonus: AU$50

Article Rates: 

• Feature article (1000+ words with 4-6 photos): AU$225
• Regular column: AU$200

Who owns the work?
You retain full ownership of your design and may republish a restyled version two months after the issue is released. Your version must be independently reformatted; you may not copy Make Modern’s layout or styling. We will seek your permission before including your project in any future compilation, and we will never publish your project as a standalone pattern.

💬 Questions?

If you have any questions about your submission, we’re still here and happy to help. 📧 submissions@makemodern.com.au