From here my discovery of textiles expanded to spinning, weaving, natural dyeing, felting, book-making, screen printing, machine embroidery and dressmaking. Finally, I was encouraged by friends to do a degree in textile and surface design to consolidate my skills. After making my first corset on the course, I was invited to apply at Cleveland College of Art & Design for a course in costume making for the entertainment industry. From here, grew my love for historical dress and historical dressmaking techniques.
After finishing my course, I worked as an alteration hand. Later, I set up a business partnership making costumes for events and museums and also offering dressmaking and alterations. Life’s events and Covid have led to me setting up a workshop at Bbox Studios, where you can find me now.
I am passionate about sewing and textile art and love creating new things. I specialise in historical and performance costumes, but also create dress-up customisations. I also construct corsets and stays for your personal size. I offer personalised 1-to-1 workshops where you can learn and develop your own passion for sewing.
I call myself The Rogue Needle Woman because I am largely self-taught and like to bend the rules to honour the creative process. Thus, following the saying, I am a Jack of all trades, but master of none, which is always better than just being the master of one!