A business born out of lockdown has taken a flexible lease on 1,000 square feet of Dean Clough at Halifax.
It’s Sew Different, developed by international sewing blogger Laura Casey, who’s created a unique sewing retreat filled with sewing workstations, fabrics, patterns, and social areas.
Established over ten years ago, initially as a blog to share a passion for pattern design, Sew Different has grown to distribute individually-designed clothing pattern packs all over the world with suppliers in Australia, Sweden, and USA.
She said: “I could never have imagined how sharing designs for an all-consuming passion would become so popular to the point where I could grow a successful business. Lockdown seems to have ignited a spark for crafting at home as a tool for mindfulness and mental well-being. Indeed, our free medical scrubs designs were downloaded more than 40,000 times during the pandemic.
“Setting up the Sewing Retreat seemed like a natural step forward in making a largely solitary hobby into a social space where we can share ideas. The holiday package for up to ten people includes a tour of our local fabric studios with step-by-step support from our team on sizing and design through to creating bespoke garments. We include afternoon tea in a warm and welcoming environment for all skill levels and overnight accommodation is available on site.
“Selecting Dean Clough as our new base and host venue for the Sewing Retreats was an obvious choice given its textile manufacturing heritage.”
Jeremy Hall, Chairman and MD at Dean Clough Ltd, said: “Creativity and diversity are what ultimately delivers excellence and Laura’s venture is a fine example of how a passion can become a sustainable business.
“Dean Clough is thriving with talented independents working alongside major business enterprise and we are hugely proud of what we have achieved in revitalising these magnificent mills for 21st century use.”
Dean Clough is already home to around 150 businesses employing over 3,000 people.
