TUTOR PROFILE: Debra Drake

One of Tecstiliau's most popular tutors, Debra started learning to sew when she was just nine years old at a free after-school club in her community. Though she then worked in the corporate world for some years, in 2014 she decided to start her own community sewing group in Llanfairfechan.

Around that time she took a risk and applied for the BBC TV series "The Great British Sewing Bee". She got in and enjoyed it immensely. Reaching the final was one of the proudest moments of her life!

After the show was aired in 2022, lots of opportunities came Debra's way, but she stuck to her core business of helping others learn how to sew and started her very own business "Sewing with Style" soon after that.

Debra's creative inspiration comes from fashion shows, from nature, and from watching people make their own clothes and designs in her classes. Her main influence is Coco Chanel, both the original designer and Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld.  Her other favourite designer is Erdem Moralioglu.

In September, Debra will be coming to Tecstiliau in Bethel to lead a weekend workshop on the 6th and 7th.  She will guide you through the steps to make your very own "alternative denim jacket".  Debra has always been a fan of denim jackets, and has come up with an innovative alternative design with a high neck that's classy and different.

Debra says, "I adore coming to Tecstiliau knowing that course participants are ready and willing to make something beautiful. The workspace is calming and practical with such a supportive and enthusiastic community."

Debra's "top tips" for sustainable textiles and fashion

• Explore "slow" sewing as a way to relax

• Upcycling is so creative and will continue to trend

• Regularly audit your wardrobe to cut down unnecessary spending/consumption

UPDATE! The September weekend is sold out. We are planning another workshop with Debra next year. Check our latest workshop schedules at: tecstiliau.org