Stitching My Story

I’m a full-time dressmaking and sewing tutor based in a village in the Leicestershire countryside, and I absolutely love helping people discover their passion for sewing. My classes aren’t just about learning stitches and seams—they’re fun, friendly sessions where friends (old and new) can take a break from everyday life. Sewing becomes a wonderful escape, offering space to relax, reflect, and create something unique.

My love of sewing began when I was very young. When I was young my mum would make beautiful clothes for herself and outfits for my sister and me. I had a bag of fabric scraps that I carefully stitched into doll’s clothes, and my first go on a sewing machine was with my grandma’s hand crank—where I learned the magic of how it all worked.

At school, I was lucky enough to take needlework classes, and that’s when my passion really took off. As a teenager, I loved making clothes that were completely my own, and after school I went on to study a BTEC and then a BA (Hons) in Fashion and Textiles. That led me into UK garment manufacturing, where I worked with suppliers for well-known high street brands including Woolworths, C&A, Adams, Boots, Next, Phase Eight, The Disney Store, Tesco, and George.

As fast fashion grew, UK manufacturing declined, and I stepped away from the industry for 15 years. In 2015 I returned to work in corporate and workwear, but all the while I kept making clothes for myself. Today, over 85% of my wardrobe is handmade—and I live by the motto: “If I can make it, I won’t buy it.” Sewing my own clothes means everything fits perfectly, each piece is unique, and I know I’m not supporting the wasteful fast fashion system that harms our planet.

In 2019 I started running dressmaking workshops with a friend in my spare time. I never expected to become a teacher, but I quickly discovered how rewarding it is to share my skills. After the pandemic, with so many people looking for new hobbies and ways to reconnect, I decided to take the leap and leave my 9–5 job to focus on tutoring full time.

Since then, I’ve had the joy of teaching at different venues and meeting so many wonderful people who share a love of sewing. If you’d like to join me, take a look at the Sewing Spots tab for upcoming dates and locations—I’d love to see you there!