Taylor Crawford is spending her Gateway Work Placement this year with Arlene Sutherland, a local fashion designer and seamstress Arlene Sutherland Apparel.

Taylor is enjoying the experience she is gaining from working with Arlene and has written the following about her experiences so far: 

"For my work experience placement, I have been working with a seamstress and learning about the process of designing, creating, and repairing clothing. During my placement, I have been developing practical sewing and fashion skills while gaining experience in a real work environment.

One of the main tasks I have been doing is drawing and cutting out pattern pieces that are used as templates for clothing shapes. These pieces are traced around onto fabric before the clothing is made. These help me when making different items of clothing, which I have plans to start on in the very near future.

This work placement has given me valuable hands-on experience in sewing and clothing production, while also helping me build confidence and learn new skills within the fashion and textile industry".

Thank you Arlene for supporting our Gateway programme by allowing Taylor to spend a day each week with you and sharing your knowledge and expertise with her.