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The Sewing Studio Isle of Wight
The Sewing Studio, Isle of Wight began over 12 years ago after I decided to leave my job as a costume maker and pursue my dream of being a fashion designer.
I had over 9 years of wonderful experience to pass on and share with others.
From Ballet and Opera, West End theatrical productions and top Films, I had helped create many many different costumes to A list standard.
Elizabeth the Golden Age, Phantom of the Opera and Pirates of the Caribbean 2 were just a few films I was so lucky to be a part of.
Lion King, Love Never Dies and Spamalot a few stage shows and some of my favourite productions to be a part of.
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My classes started as an additional stream of income whilst I set myself up as a bridal wear designer, but over time actually became the main part of my business and the most rewarding and fun.
It not only finances my life, but more importantly it gives me a fantastic connection to so many people all with the one thing in common, a passion for all things sewing.
Fabrics, techniques, gadgets, trims, new ideas and old skills all combine to make sewing easy but with an immaculate finish.
My standards are high but I will show you short cuts and tricks of the trade for you to be as exacting as I am.
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I have taught many people from scratch how to use a sewing machine, many more to expand their knowledge and attempt projects they have wanted to try but not had the confidence to do alone.
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My aim is to not only teach the basics but to get my students to a point where they can create their own designs, get proper fitting on clothing, achieve a professional finish on home furnishings and most importantly have fun whilst doing so.
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Classes are small and friendly, chilled and encouraging, motivational but honest in approach to get the best from everyone.
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If you are a total beginner or a good sewer looking for direction, polish your techniques or just looking for a social group to join, please check out my classes and see if you would like to join.
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I will be adding one day workshops, longer courses alongside my current class list soon. Please sign up for emails to be the first to know what's is going on in The Sewing Studio.
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I look forward to meeting you soon
Karen xx
NOW STOCKING
BROTHER SEWING MACHINES
Karen Robb
My name is Karen Robb and I have been sewing since I was about 8 years old.
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My mum allowed me to use her old Singer machine and I made many clothes for myself including my school uniform.......thank goodness no photos exist from then.
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It was about then that I saw my hero Karl Lagerfeld on the TV. He drew designs of clothes and this was what I had been doing. For the first time I realised that all my sketches and sewing could be joined together to be a future career for me.
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I left school and headed straight to college where I flourished and really felt that this was what I wanted to do.
Sadly it wasn't to be........for a while......
I had a successful career in retail as visual display in local stores and the Oxford Circus store of H&M going on to be manager of both Wallis and French Connection.
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My path diverted slightly into Interior Design by a chance meeting with a designer and I began 5 years making home furnishings for this high end company.
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After a move to the Isle of Wight I began working for John Sheward as a workroom assistant for his costume making business and stayed for nearly 9 years.
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2011 was the new beginning of self employment and the opening of my classes and my bridal design company, Karen Dornellie
Due to Covid this part of my business is taking a new turn but will encompass my sewing, love of pattern cutting and design and the joy of helping people achieve a unique dream wedding dress.
Look out for this original take which will be launched very soon.
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So as you can see I have a varied but extensive experience behind the machine and in front of people.
My mission is to get more people sewing to high standards and be proud of what they make and amaze others with their skill.
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Let us see where the next chapter takes us xxx
Contact Me
Karen Robb
The Sewing Studio Isle of Wight
Unit 1, Isle of Wight Pearl, Military Road, PO30 4DD
07972819854
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Isle of Wight, United Kingdom