Merchant & Mills sell the most wonderful selection of sewing essentials; safety pins, buckles, scissors, needles, fabrics… They also sell patterns for a wide selection of dresses and tops which are supplied on thick card and sent out in the post in storage tubes. The patterns are simple and elegant (like the ‘Trapeze Dress’ above) and are not too challenging; even for beginners. The majority of the materials are sourced from the UK including dressmaking shears from Sheffield and oilskin from Yorkshire. Their Studio is based in Hay-on-Wye where you can sign up to do various sewing courses. Keep up to date with all their products and news on their blog here.