Lorna has been sewing all her life. After completing her degree she became a qualified teacher and taught Design and Technology in schools in England for more than ten years.
She worked as a regional director for Terry Fox where she learned the inside secrets of the couture world. She set up her own business making made-to-measure clothing, including bridal wear and lingerie and started running specialist sewing workshops.
In July 2014 Lorna opened her studio in a purpose-converted barn in Bradnop, near Leek. Since then, her husband, Stephen, has joined her in the business where they continue to run sewing workshops and stock fabric, specialist haberdashery and gadgets. They are the authorised dealers for Brother and Baby Lock, selling sewing and embroidery machines and overlockers.
Writing
Lorna has written and contributed to many sewing books and magazines since 2000. Many of these are available for sale in the studio or from your local bookseller.
Lorna's books include:
Overlockers & Overlocking (Jan 2021)
Complete Dressmaking Skills (2014)
Dressmaking to Flatter your Shape (Sept 2012)
The Sewing Machine Accessory Bible (Feb 2011) co-authored with Wendy Gardiner
Compendium of Sewing Techniques (Feb 2010)
The Dressmaker’s Technique Bible (2008)
The Sewing Stitch Bible (2007)
'Many congratulations. You have created an amazing place to learn and be inspired. I feel SO lucky to have enjoyed your workshops and my machines are very grateful for your care!' Janice (July 2024)
TIP: Always use good quality thread - it's kinder to your sewing machine and better for your garments.