Debbie Bliss
Knitting Tutor
Debbie Bliss is one of the world’s most recognised knitwear designers and yarn company founders. With over 30 years in the industry, she has built an international reputation for creating beautiful, wearable knitted garments and establishing successful yarn lines.
Beginning her career as a fashion knitwear designer, Debbie launched her own yarn company, Debbie Bliss Yarns, which has become synonymous with quality and sophisticated colour palettes. Her yarns are distributed globally and are particularly beloved for their natural fibre content and excellent stitch definition.
As a prolific author, Debbie has published over 30 books featuring her designs, from baby knits to adult fashion. Her patterns are known for their timeless elegance, clear instructions, and flattering fits. She has a particular gift for creating designs that appeal to both beginners and experienced knitters.
Debbie regularly teaches at yarn shops, fibre festivals, and knitting events worldwide. Her teaching style emphasises the importance of good construction techniques and understanding how garments fit the body. She continues to innovate in both design and yarn development, consistently introducing new techniques and colour concepts to the knitting community.
Claire Gelder
Crochet Tutor
Claire Gelder is a celebrated crochet designer and author known for her contemporary approach to traditional techniques. Based in the UK, she has become a leading voice in modern crochet, creating patterns that bridge classic craftsmanship with fresh, wearable designs.
Claire’s signature style features intricate lacework, innovative construction methods, and sophisticated colour combinations. She is particularly renowned for her shawl and wrap designs, which often incorporate complex stitch patterns and geometric motifs. Her patterns are cherished by crocheters worldwide for their clear instructions and elegant finished pieces.
As an author, Claire has published several successful books with major craft publishers, each showcasing her ability to make advanced techniques accessible to intermediate and experienced crocheters. Her publications often feature step-by-step photography and detailed charts that guide crafters through complex processes.
Claire teaches workshops throughout the UK and at international fibre festivals, specialising in lace crochet and advanced construction techniques. She is known for her patient teaching style and ability to break down complex concepts into manageable steps. Her work has been featured in leading crochet magazines, and she maintains an active online presence, sharing techniques and inspiration.
Clare Montgomerie
KNitting Tutor
Claire Montgomerie is an innovative knitwear designer and author recognised for her modern approach to traditional Scottish knitting techniques. Based in Scotland, she draws inspiration from the rich heritage of Fair Isle and Aran knitting while creating contemporary patterns for today’s knitters.
Claire specialises in colourwork and textured knitting, often incorporating traditional motifs into fresh, wearable designs. Her patterns are celebrated for their clear instructions, thoughtful construction, and attention to fit. She has a particular talent for adapting historical techniques for modern knitters, making ancient skills accessible to contemporary crafters.
As an author, Claire has published several books focusing on Scottish knitting traditions and their modern applications. Her publications feature both historical context and practical patterns, helping preserve traditional techniques while encouraging innovation.
Claire teaches throughout the UK and internationally, offering workshops on Fair Isle techniques, colorwork theory, and traditional Scottish knitting methods. She is known for her encyclopedic knowledge of knitting history and her ability to inspire students to explore their own creative interpretations of traditional patterns. Her work has been featured in major knitting publications and international exhibitions.
Sam Sabido
Crochet Tutor
Sam Sabido is a vibrant crochet designer and educator known for her colourful, contemporary approach to the craft. Based in the UK, she has gained recognition for creating patterns that celebrate bold colours, innovative techniques, and an inclusive design philosophy.
Sam’s work is characterised by her fearless use of colour and her ability to reinvent traditional crochet techniques for modern makers. She specialises in garments and accessories that are both stylish and wearable, often incorporating unique construction methods and unexpected colour combinations. Her patterns are particularly popular among younger crocheters seeking fresh, contemporary designs.
As an educator, Sam teaches workshops throughout the UK, focusing on colour theory, modern crochet techniques, and confident making. She is known for her enthusiastic teaching style and her ability to inspire students to step outside their comfort zones with both technique and colour choices.
Sam maintains an active online presence through social media and her blog, where she shares patterns, tutorials, and inspiration. She has contributed to several crochet magazines and has been featured at major craft shows and fibre festivals. Her work reflects a commitment to making crochet accessible and exciting for a new generation of makers.