We sat down with our lovely teacher Laura to find out what she likes to sew plus a few sneaky tips...

Laura has been teaching at Sew In Brighton for many years - a whole range of courses including Patchwork & Quilting, Replicate Your Clothes, Applique & Free Machine Embroidery plus general sewing & dressmaking in our Stitch Classes. We love Laura for her warmth, humour, kindness & care she takes of each & every student (and us at Sew In Brighton!)

What do you enjoy most about teaching sewing at Sew In Brighton? 
The students! 

What's your favourite sewing technique or skill either to teach or to do yourself? 
I think free machine embroidery is really fun and usually when students learn how to do it they get really into it, which is lovely!

Do you have one sewing tip to share that you think really speeds up or revolutionises people's sewing in some way? 
I'd say choose the best fabric you can afford. Feel the fabric before you buy it.  In the fabric shop unroll a bit and see what it looks like from a distance and even hold it in front of a mirror. It's all about the fabric for me. 

What sort of things do you sew yourself, either for you or to sell?
When I have time to sew for myself I like making clothes and altering bargain finds from charity shops. I also make bags and small accessories from recycled fabrics which I sell through Appendage in Kensington Gardens. 

What's the most amazing/your favourite thing you ever made and why?
I have a turquoise silk velvet coat that was a really tricky fabric to sew but it makes me happy every time I wear it!

What was the first thing you ever sewed in your life and how long ago was it? 
Well, in 1972 I was 12 and my Mum helped me make a pair of corduroy flares. Really flared!

What are you making next for yourself? 
My wardrobe is missing a red dress. Why don't I have one? Maybe that is next. 

What is your wish for students who come to your classes?  Either for their experience at Sew In Brighton or in their future. 
Most importantly I hope they have fun and enjoy the experience. Secondly I hope they feel inspired and more confident to carry on sewing at home. 

Laura will be teaching Thursday morning Stitch Classes from Dec 18-Mar 19.  She also teaches Sew a Rucksack workshop, Replicate Your Clothes, Sew a Coatigan in a Day, Hen Parties and 1-2-1 lessons

Check out her designs on Instagram: @one.off.brighton