Faculty Christopher Paunil Wins $10,000 in Stitched Fashion Design Competition

Toronto Film School instructor and acclaimed Canadian fashion designer, Christopher Paunil, recently took home the top prize of $10,000 on an episode of Stitched.

Stitched is a Canadian Design television show that airs on Slice. On each episode, four designers compete in a series of design challenges for the $10,000 prize. Hosted by Canadian fashion model Kim Cloutier, the competition features a panel of judges that includes celebrity stylist Joe Zee and ELLE Canada’s Editor-in-Chief, Vanessa Craft.

“Being on Stitched was an amazing opportunity,” Christopher said, while on a break from teaching his class at Toronto Film School’s Davisville campus. “Having had this opportunity has prepared me for more of what is to come!”

Christopher is a bridal and evening wear designer who has been working in the industry since 2003. He has also been teaching aspiring fashion designers since 2008. At Toronto Film School Christopher teaches construction to students in the Fashion Design Diploma.

“I do like to pass along the knowledge I have to the new generation,” Christopher explained. “I think it is really rewarding to pass along everything I have experienced to my students.”

In addition to Christopher’s appearance on Stitched, the Toronto Film School’s connection to the show goes even further as alumnus Ryan Alexander also appeared on the show and alumnus Patrick Salonga will appear on Nov. 11.

“It is cool to see students and alumni from Toronto Film School on the show,” Christopher said. “It is a supportive community here in Toronto among fashion designers.

Toronto Film School extends thanks to Slice for generously providing images and video from Stitched for this article and video.