Meet the Maker: Carl
Pattern Cutter
Carl Ross has clocked up an incredible 42 years at Derek Rose as a pattern cutter and marker maker. He’s seen the factory evolve from vintage machinery to cutting-edge tech, yet his dedication remains anchored in old-school precision. When he’s not obsessing over patterns, you’ll find him riding motorbikes, show jumping, strumming his guitar, or elbow-deep in a Land Rover rebuild – proof that he knows exactly how to live life in the fast lane, on his own terms.
What's your name, and how long have you been at Derek Rose?
Carl Ross, 42 years.
What's your favourite memory of working here?
Being promoted to manager and pattern cutter.
What's the best thing about working here — what makes Derek Rose special?
Working with a high-end product and seeing the end result.
What do you do outside of work? Any hobbies?
Riding motorbikes, show jumping, playing guitar, and building Land Rovers for off-roading.
What does “Live As You Please” mean to you?
Just live life as you want, no stress.
Are you listening to anything while you work? Chatting, or do you need to focus?
Just need to focus, as I'm old now, lol.
Do you have a favourite Derek Rose product?
I love the Dukes gowns.
What's the most unusual request you've had — and did you make it happen?
I made a pattern for the Silent Night Hippo, and I cut King Charles's pyjamas for his wedding night with Diana.
If you could pass one thing on to someone just starting here, what would it be?
Work hard and enjoy.
What does craftsmanship mean to you personally?
It is good to have a craft behind you. I am still learning to this day; you never stop learning in this trade.
Anything you really like cutting?
Anything that has a lot of checks.
100 Years. A hundred pieces.
