The design process is a lovely unfolding of ideas built up over a period, sometimes elements from years ago and things I saw this morning. Designers never seem to stop designing, thinking of things yet to do and how to improve or build on things they have already done. As a clothing or fashion designer I am always noticing small details, from a particular shade of red, to the shape or movement of a plant in the wind. Thinking of where to place a fold or how to illuminate the need for a button. I personally love the create the silhouette I want with the minimum interruptions to the fabric. The fewest seams, darts, fastenings etc. Turning, tucking, folding even twisting or rotating the fabric coaxing, cajoling and forcing it to interpret what is in my mind. It is fabulous when you see the way and fabric begins to obey.

Starting a fashion business is exciting, getting established and growing that business is exhausting and at times a thankless task. Surviving is the a test of your stamina, imagination, determination and will to succeed. It is not easy, but if you are doing something you love it is definitely possible.

It is important to me that my work-life balance is just that…balanced. So although the business is important it is not more important that my life.

Buttercup days…there is something in the air

Fashion is synonymous with London…but I need to find avenues outside my home town…

When you are starting out you do not know where the work will come from, so keep an open mind and say ‘Yes’..because you also do not know where it will lead to…

The Design and Sewing Studio website is live and we are alive!

…what motivates a buyer to make a purchase is very unpredictable.

This very sad event is also an indication of what undue pressure can do to an individual.

I make dresses…I am sure I can make a good morning!

As I know, it does not matter how fabulous the idea, the product or the care behind it…if no one knows you exist it will fail.

I know that marketing and publicity alone will not make this venture a success but I know that without the correct publicity it will fail.

A wonderful day full of ease and happiness… and all because I took notice of my porridge. I will return to my business tomorrow.

It can be a frightening place for a small fish!

Keeping it real…in the virtual world.

As a modern business you need a website, but you can absolutely make your own and ensure it is beautiful and represents your brand. The time you invest will save you money, give you what you want and allow you control of your brand and image. Speaking directly to your market is a personal touch in a digital world.

The Design and Sewing Studio is an exciting new facility based in Mossley, Greater Manchester, offering a fully fitted commercial fashion studio workspace for hire to small and start-up businesses who wish to manufacture their own collections or samples but who do not have or need a permanent manufacturing facility. The studio can be hired on a day or weekly basis and provides a wonderfully creative environment with industrial flatbed, overlock, cover stitch and blind hem machines together with many Kennett and Lindsell fitting forms, full size cutting tables, leather craft sewing machine and many other facilities.