AN EX-art and design student at Coleg Menai has recently celebrated the publishing of her first book.

Connie Mabbott, who studied at Coleg Menai from 2010 to 2012, has published her first book, entitled ‘Customising Clothes with Embroidery’.

During her time at Coleg Menai, Connie discovered she had a passion for textile work and embroidery during sessions delivered by course tutor Soo Rees-Jones.

Connie went on to study textile design at Birmingham City University, and by now has established her own embroidery business, ‘Connie’s World’, while also working as a bridal embroidery assistant at the Couture Company in Birmingham.

‘Customising Clothes with Embroidery’ teaches and guides the reader on how to upscale clothing through the use of free motion embroidery.

The book is available to purchase directly from the publishers ‘Pen and Sword Books’, online at: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk.

Connie said: “I hope the book encourages people to use what they have - to upcycle, and inspires them to come up with their own designs using the techniques I have included.

“It’s all using free-motion embroidery, which uses a regular sewing machine and isn’t the easiest skill, so it starts with some very simple ideas for beginners and progresses into much more difficult, detailed projects towards the end.

“This means there’s something for everyone to try, whatever their ability!”

Paul Edwards, creative arts programme area manager at Coleg Menai, added: “We are all immensely proud of Connie’s recent success!

“It’s great to see Parc Menai’s past students excelling in the industry.”

You can find out more about Connie’s embroidery business, ‘Connie’s World’, at: www.lintandthread.com/h-o-m-e.