BBC Great British Sewing Bee star, Debra Drake, on taking risks after 50 

Debra Drake

Debra Drake has loved sewing and fashion since she was a child. She fondly remembers making her own clothes from recycled materials and in the 80s studied fashion and design. 

That passion was put on hold as a corporate career in communications and raising a family took over. Years later, Debra was craving a creative outlet and decided to dip back into sewing, sparking a desire for a change in direction. 

In her early 50s, Debra decided to leave her corporate career behind and start taking sewing seriously. With a plan to maximise the potential of her new venture, Debra applied to compete in BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee.

This proved to be a great success, finishing the journey as a finalist and earning ‘Garment of the Week’ three times along the way. This experience gave Debra the push she needed to launch her own business and Sewing With Style was born. 

PRIME Cymru’s Volunteer Mentor, Nick Bradley, supported Debra as she built her business up. Utilising his vast business background, Nick offered Debra encouragement and guidance. 

She said: “As a self-starter Nick’s support has been invaluable to me. He’s given me clarity and makes me look at the bigger picture. His neutral guidance has been a massive help and rather than giving me the answers, he coaches me to find the answers myself.” 

Sewing With Style offers day and evening courses from Debra’s studio in Llandudno. Customers come from across the UK, with offerings for beginners like making tote bags, to more advanced workshops such as Debra’s signature French couture jacket course.

BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee

Alongside this, Debra has been busy collaborating with universities, charities and local councils, who all recognise the benefits of sewing for wellbeing and sustainability. 

She said: “The job satisfaction it has given me is huge!” 

Debra has amassed fans from across the globe, recently visiting Australia to teach her ‘Go Two Pattern’ and French-style jacket courses. 

She also gave a talk about taking risks after 50. Debra wants to inspire others and firmly believes it’s never too late to start a new business. 

She said: “Going from employed to self-employed was scary and it requires a very different mindset, but it was time for me to do something that I really wanted to do.” 

If you would like free support to start a new business, please contact PRIME Cymru on 01550 721813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.