Creating a job that fits more flexibly around a young family is a very common incentive for want to work self-employed or start your own business, and following an eclectic career comprising a nursery nurse, station chargehand, hotel receptionist, working in an art shop, social health at Cornwall Council and also a skin-care manufacturer for Trevarno Organic Skincare, Liz finally found her passion with the help of Outset Cornwall.

“I was working long hours for someone else and not being able to be at home with my family when I needed to be.  At the same time I had been teaching sewing classes in my local hall and they were proving very popular, so I decided it was time to do what I had been wanting to do for a long time  – open a haberdashery shop that also taught workshops.

“Outset Cornwall was recommended to me by a friend. I attended every one of the sessions from the first to the last as I had no idea what starting and running a business involved and I wanted to make sure I was completely ready to do it myself.

“I am not very good at asking for help, which is something I have had to get over…when you start your own business you need all the support and help you can get from people close to you.”

“Threads is a fairly unique business at the moment in Cornwall but with similar “sewing cafes” and pop-up sewing workshops becoming more popular I will have to stay ahead of the competition.

“We are a place for people to come and meet, learn a new skill or re-new a skill they may have long left behind as life became busier.  It’s a place to relax, take time for yourself and chat with like-minded people.  We have sewing machines for hire by the hour if you need to hem some trousers, pattern swaps if you fancy making something different and a small reference library if you just want to be inspired…the kettle is always on. We also have a small but select range of fabrics, yarns, trimmings and buttons for sale.”

The Outset programme was very informative and always well-planned and presented with a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. The sessions always gave me lots to think about and research in my own time after I went home. I met some wonderful people that I am still in contact with now and have formed some great friendships.

“Hopefully I can stick to my business plan which is to move to bigger premises within three years and maybe open a Sewing Café.  I would like to become known for a friendly welcome and a great place to learn a new skill.”