About Collette Costello

Storytelling Fabrics

Collette Costello Fabrics

Fabrics Inspired by History

My Nanna taught me how to sew when I was a little girl. We would spend cosy Sunday afternoons together, sewing and sharing stories. She would tell me about her childhood, growing up in Victorian Salford. Born into a poor immigrant family. She made all her own dresses and never threw clothes away.

Because of her I became a fashion teacher and designer. To preserve her stories I turned them into a collection of vintage fabrics. Now I want to share her stories with you. 

Where it Started

I am a Manchester designer, I love designing fabrics based on stories from the past.

At 26, I launched my first vintage fashion company after winning first place in the Salford Council Business Start-up Awards 2008. My first business premises were based at Salford Quays. Since then, I have worked in education. I am qualified lecturer with a MA degree and have taught at Oldham college, Burnley college and MMU.

Collette Costello Fabric

Most recently in 2024 I launched Sew Sub Club. Selling subscription sewing boxes and online courses. My range of fabrics are also selling as ready-made items in the gift shop at Salford Museum.

Past Press Coverage

My projects and designs have been featured by many press publications. See my press features and achievements below:

Achievements

  • Salford Business Start-up Awards Winner 2008
  • Manchester Open Exhibitor 2019/2020
  • Reframe Women in Tech Speaker 2023
  • Manchester Fashion Awards Winner 2010

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