After 15 years working behind the scenes in the professional costume industry, Katy returned to her hometown of Cromer in 2023 to start a new chapter—this time, sharing her skills with others.
Her love for theatre began right here on the North Norfolk coast, working every summer season at the Pavilion Theatre on Cromer Pier from the age of 16 through to 22. From there, she toured the UK and Europe with large-scale musicals including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Evita, Sister Act, and Hairspray, before going on to work in the West End. For eight years, she was Head of Wardrobe for The Play That Goes Wrong.
Alongside her work in theatre, Katy is an experienced costume maker, with credits including The Globe, the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, and Peter Pan Goes Wrong, among many others. You can see examples of her work on Instagram using #katycustomknits.
Katy was first taught to sew as a child by her mum, and she’s been making ever since; completing her first knitting project at age 8 and her first piece of clothing by 13. Sewing has remained a constant in her life, and she’s passionate about passing on the joy and creativity that comes with making something by hand.
Now settled back by the sea, Katy runs Cromer Seamstress—a small business offering sewing workshops, retreats, private tuition in sewing and knitting, and a local alterations and repairs service.
