LAURA ASHLEYShop Online

Ray Stitch is quickly attracting the attention of North London’s craft scene as their favourite one-stop sewing shop. Laden with floor to ceiling reels of luxury fabrics, a riot of buttons and lashings of opulent ribbons/trims we found ourselves immediately transported from the bustle of Essex Road. Round it off with their fresh coffee and sticky pastry offering and we have our new Islington afternoon hang out.

We were particularly drawn to the wall of dress-making patterns, charming range of sewing books and the indulgent store design. Downstairs they also have a weekly line up of sewing classes ranging from beginners to intermediate. Children (9 and over) can also learn the ropes with classes teaching the basic techniques of machine sewing, applique and embroidery- running just after school 4.15pm-6.15pm.  Nurture their budding creativity whilst giving you some extra time to prepare their tea!

The Ray Stitch website had been in fruition for over two years when owner and self confessed ‘maker of all things’ Rachel Hart decided to open it’s door just four months ago (testament to its popularity online perhaps). Already earning inches in House & Garden and Elle Decoration (the latter neatly displayed by the cash desk along its solid oak work counter) Rachel has created in her own words a destination that offers everything in one place in the way of “an old-style haberdashery or DIY or art shop” does but in a beautifully stylish way.

To visit the Ray Stitch website click here 

Did you know that Laura Ashley also sell drape fabric (make pieces for your home) by the metre? Simply pop into one of our stores or browse online here 

Laura Ashley fabrics: Gisele Floral Linen/Cotton Fabric Geranium, Cavendish Stripe Linen Fabric in Dove Grey, Coco Viscose/ Silk Fabric Duck Egg