Holly Paget

Sewing from a young age, Holly came to Herefordshire & Ludlow College firstly for a textiles short-course, before commencing the Level 2 Certificate in Millinery & Fashion. Holly has now moved on to the City & Guilds 7168 Level 3 in Craft Skills for Creative Industries – Advanced Millinery/Fashion. Alongside studying, Holly started her own business producing embroidered art which she sells on Etsy. Holly also entered and won the Innovative Use of Felt Prize from the Feltmakers Design competition.

“I have always had an interest in sewing since I was young. The courses here at the college have allowed me to explore this further and expand on my abilities in this traditional craft. I was thrilled to win the Innovative Use of Felt prize, where I combined my love of sewing and Harry Potter into a hat, creating a barred owl out of felt. In Edwardian times, ladies’ hats were usually trimmed with feathers, fruits and real stuffed birds. My version was a modern, environmentally friendly take on the traditional hat using needle felting, which is now an extremely popular craft.

I would recommend the college courses for anyone with a passion for sewing or textiles. They really incorporate both fashion and textiles and there is something for everyone! It is incredible to learn traditional skills which have remained the same way for centuries, and the course tutor Marina is brilliant. Due to the small group sizes, Marina always has the time to work with you one-to-one and offers great support throughout.”