Debbie Tomkies
Debbie Tomkies is a textile designer, hand-dyer, author and tutor. With over 25 years experience, she is happy to undertake pattern design commissions for knitwear and crochet. An expert hand-dyer, she works with natural and synthetic dyes on both yarn and fabric and has a particular interest in researching dyes in the 1800-1900’s.
Debbie has 3 books and over 100 articles published in major magazines and welcomes requests for articles, how-to features, technical and research articles, video tutorials and books.
Making Futures
Debbie runs Making Futures a social enterprise that aims to build confidence, wellbeing and self-esteem through creative activity. Making Futures works with community groups, schools, colleges and third sector organisations to deliver a wide range of workshops, classes, Arts Award and Open Badges.
An experienced retailer and designer-maker Debbie also offers business mentoring and start-up advice to new creative enterprises. In particular she works with individuals who face barriers to employment, working with them to set up home-based creative businesses that allow them to achieve their potential whilst having regard to any specific needs they may have.
DT Craft & Design
Debbie is a partner in online retail company, DT Craft & Design. Arising from Debbie’s first book, Hand-dyed Yarn Craft Projects, the company was set up in 2006 to sell natural and synthetic dyes, undyed yarns, equipment, kits, books and other products featured in the book.