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.
Jacquie George
Knitting Tutor
Claire Gelder
Crochet
In 2016, I used my life long love of crafting to launch Wool Couture Company.
From day one, my aim has been to inspire people around the world to try centuries old pastimes, by giving these timeless hobbies a twenty-first century makeover.
I’m very grateful that from day one we have had very loyal customers who have supported us over the years – thank you for being there for us.
I am very proud to tell you that on 15th February 2026 we will be celebrating our tenth anniversary. In the UK, it’s suggested that less than 35% of small businesses make it to this grand age.
Today, our craft kits are ranged in small independent stores through to the more established high street retailers, such as Waterstones, Dunelm and John Lewis.
Wool Couture continues to be owned by Claire and Ali Gelder, the Founders of Wool Couture, and our investors from Dragons Den, Touker Suleyman and Tej Lalvani.
Thank you to everyone who has supported my joy of making. I truly believe that hand made is always from the heart.
Clare Montgomerie
Knitting & Crochet
I am a textiles designer, author, editor, stylist and teacher who has been working with yarn for well over 20 years. My passion for crafting began a child, when my mother taught me to knit and crochet. She, in turn, was taught by her Irish Grandmother, who farmed in Mayo and made part of her living by creating beautiful Irish crochet lace, so it is obviously in the genes!
In the early 2000s, I gained a degree in Constructed Textiles at Middlesex University and then an MA in Knitted Textiles from the Royal College of Art and upon graduation my first job was as the first ever Loopette at the gorgeous yarn boutique Loop in London, where as well as selling yarn, I also started teaching craft classes.
In 2007 I wrote my first book, Easy Baby Knits for Ryland, Peters and Small and since then have gone on to write multiple craft books. The latest of which are The Beginners Guide to Crochet from Search Press and The Granny Square Card Deck. I have also worked as commissioning editor for publications including Inside Crochet Magazine and am currently the stylist for craft publications, crochet designers and yarn companies.
Over the years I must have helped hundreds of people learn to knit and crochet, discovering along the way that most people find the same things difficult and make similar mistakes. This knowledge helps when writing masterclasses, tutorials and books as I know exactly where most people will have trouble, so can give targeted advice and tips.
Most importantly, I love to play with colour and yarn, aiming to create desirable and modern designs from the most traditional of craft techniques.
Instagram:@clairemontyknits
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.
Instagram: @samsabidocrochet