Pictured: Estelle James

A new Mum has found an innovative way of returning to work after setting up a new business from premises within Derby's Friar Gate Studios.

Estelle James has set up Curtain Academy, which provides training courses in curtain-making and soft furnishings from its new home within The Studios on Ford Street.

With more than 20 years' industry experience, Estelle runs courses in curtain-making and soft furnishings for both professional curtain makers and home enthusiasts - and is already attracting students from all over the world, including Canada, France and Spain.

Curtain Academy offers one week intensive training courses, designed to provide students with the most up-to-date techniques and styles in curtain making and soft furnishings, along with the basic knowledge needed to set up their own curtain making business. 

In addition to the intensive hands-on course, students also receive a unique set of DVDs, which have been designed specifically by Estelle to deliver the basics in setting up a soft furnishing business. 

Students will leave with five soft furnishing samples which can be used in their portfolio for future clients.

Commenting on the move to the Studios, Estelle said:

"I am thrilled to be joining the creative network at Friar Gate Studios.  This is the ideal location for Curtain Academy as the facilities and location provide the perfect environment for my students." 

"The courses are open to students of all levels and ages - classes are limited to a maximum of four students so that they can complete five soft furnishing projects and a business module in the minimum time. All students who complete the one week course will receive a certificate."

Ann Bhatti, centre manager at Friar Gate Studios, added:

"I am delighted to welcome Estelle and Curtain Academy to Friar Gate Studios. The courses seem to have been very popular already and have even attracted interest from our tenants!" 

Estelle will be running a one-day Roman Blind course on Friday 18th November in aid of the BBC Children In Need Appeal.

The course will run from 10.00am until 4.30pm and costs £120, which includes all materials and manuals, with all proceeds going to Children in Need.

All students taking part in the one-day course will make an interlined hand sewn Roman blind to take home. For further information, contact Estelle on 01332 332392 or 07738 491438.

Friar Gate Studios, based on Ford Street in Derby, is a purpose-built centre for growing businesses in the creative industries. The Studios offers stylish, modern office facilities for businesses in one of the fastest growing sectors in the region.