Hello, I’m Claire
Sewing and creating have been part of my life for as long as I can remember.
I first learnt to sew as a child, taught by my mum and aunts. What began as a childhood interest soon grew into a real love of fashion, design and creating beautiful things from fabric.
I went on to study Clothing Production at Buffalo City Technical College in South Africa, where I completed my diploma. In 2000, I was delighted to be named the winner of the Rhea Award for Fashion Excellence.
From fashion to teaching
After completing my studies, I went on to teach sewing and other areas of fashion and design, working with students at both junior school and further education level.
It was through teaching that I discovered just how much I enjoyed passing on my skills and helping other people realise what they could create for themselves.
There is something incredibly rewarding about watching someone start with very little confidence and then seeing how proud they are when they finish something they have made themselves.
Bridalwear and the beginning of Eli-b
My love of fashion and design later led me to specialise in bespoke bridalwear, creating made-to-measure wedding gowns under my own label, Claire Catherine Bridal and Couture.
Then, after my daughter Elizabeth was born, a new chapter began and Eli-b Create & Sew by Claire Watson was born.
The name Eli-b was inspired by Elizabeth, so the business has always been something very personal and special to me.
Not long afterwards, I also opened my online fabric shop, Watsons Fabrics, supplying quality dressmaking fabrics and haberdashery to sewing enthusiasts across the UK.
Sharing my love of sewing
Today, one of the things I enjoy most is being able to share the skills and knowledge I have gathered over the years.
From my home studio in Byfleet, Surrey, I teach friendly, relaxed sewing classes for all abilities, from complete beginners learning how to use a sewing machine for the first time to more experienced sewers looking to develop their skills or try something new.
My teaching style is relaxed, patient and encouraging. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions, having a go and learning at your own pace.
For me, sewing should be enjoyable. It is about learning new skills, being creative and experiencing that wonderful feeling of being able to say, “I made that.”
Come and sew with me
Whether you’d like to learn how to use your sewing machine, start making your own clothes, tackle a new project or simply spend more time doing something creative, I’d love to help you on your sewing journey.
Take a look at my Sewing Classes & Workshops to discover what you’d like to make next.