GET TO KNOW US
Having set up the business, following a top end training, Rachel intended on running a family cottage industry. Soon word spread and the fabric and job list were spilling out of the basements and into the rest of the house. Rachel’s Made-to-Measure was in demand.
As the business grew, Christine joined us, with her experience in clothing and mathematical skills, and started training with soft furnishings. The teenagers rebelled and said either we "find new premises or the fabric will disappear!".
Christine and Rachel moved out and into an old Otley fabric mill. Within 18 months we outgrew those premises and with more staff we needed more space - and a bigger table - those bifold door curtains can stretch for miles…
Our current place feels like home, which is just as well because we spend so much time here. The workload continues to expand. From new homes to old, draughty farmhouses, from first modest rental apartments to lofty mill developments, hotels and stately homes, we do it all! Between us we follow each job through, everyone coordinating different aspects: measuring; selecting fabric and linings; ordering; making; fitting and hanging. Oh, and billing!
OUR TEAM
Meet Martha
I'm also a wildlife watercolour artist and a qualified florist, I love colour, design so I am always being creative!
I am responsible for the overall administration of Rachel's Made to Measure, social media & all your lovely fabric appointments & enquiries!
When you meet me in the workshop we can talk though your ideas, colour schemes and I can help you find the perfect fabrics for your home. If you want to bring in any paint, wallpaper, carpet samples or pictures to your appointment then they are most welcome!
I always love seeing your visions come to life and will be on hand to guide you through the process along with our wonderful team!
Meet Rachel
I have my roots in the local area, brought up my family in Otley and now live close to family in Ilkley. As my girls grew up, I began to explore the possibility of a career change and to turn a passion into a business: made-to-measure fabrics and furnishing sales. We have built the business on a simple premise - "would I be happy if this was in my home", we strive to give our clients the very best quality and workmanship, which is why we have so many returning customers.
Meet Elly.
I have a degree in fine art from Brighton University and have worked in hospitality operations, but really enjoy being creative. I am responsible for setting up the new Art Of Cushions web shop and so you are unlikely to see me if you visit the workshop, I will most likely have made head in the computer being creative and displaying the new designs on the website as well as all the administration for ordering and deliveries. I became a mum last year and love gardening, but hate pickles.
Meet Katie
I have a number of years experience in curtain making having started in a factory. My background is in textile design and knitted textiles, but have always enjoyed being creative and love "hands on" working. I love to see a job through from start to finish and love even more seeing pictures of my creations hung in their new homes.
Likes - knitting, cross stitch and binge watching tv series. Dislikes - celery and peanuts.
Meet Christine
Hello, I’m Christine and I’ve been working with Rachel for several years now. I have always enjoyed making things, but only took up sewing as a hobby late in life. I was lucky to meet Rachel at a time when her business was expanding and now it’s my job as well. I work behind the scenes, making sure that our products are made to our customers’ requirements and our high standards. I am usually to be found upstairs in the workshop, planning projects, making up curtains and blinds, and making sure we work as efficiently as possible.
Best skills: pattern matching and sewing machine whispering.