Since winning Project Runway All Stars Season 2, Anthony Ryan Auld has made big strides in the fashion industry. In addition to becoming a Brother sewing machine spokesman, he’s creating a capsule collection for Nine West, collaborating on designs with fellow Project Runway cast members, and worked on an exhibition for the Louisiana Art & Science Museum.

Originally featured in Season 9, the Baton Rouge, Louisiana, resident ended up in seventh place with just one win under his belt. Anthony Ryan wasn’t ready to give up just yet, however. After hearing that the All Stars casting directors were considering him for the show, he jumped at the opportunity.

Initially a graphic design student at Louisiana State University, Anthony Ryan had no idea he wanted to pursue a career in fashion. The first time he watched an early season of Project Runway, he hadn’t even considered trying out. It wasn’t until Season 8-with the inspiring designs of Mondo Guerra and Gretchen Jones-that he finally decided to give it a shot.

In addition to designing, Auld is a movie fanatic who loves being outdoors: camping, kayaking, or working in his backyard. Anthony Ryan tells us all about his Project Runway experiences, and what we can expect to see from him in the future.

SewStylish: How did you learn to sew?

Anthony Ryan Auld: I really didn’t learn to sew until I was 24, once I went back to college. Although, when I was younger I sewed a quilt with my grandmother one summer; that was my first sewing project.

SS: When did you first know that you wanted to pursue fashion?

ARA: I didn’t know until that four-year period I took off from college, during which I worked in…