News
CRAFT&DESIGN
Jan/Feb 2011
Saddler Wins QEST Scholarship
“Mia Sabel, a trainee saddler, has been awarded a £6,200 Queen Elizabeth Scholarship to complete her final qualification courses at the Saddlery Training Centre in Salisbury. She will also attend several other courses, such as fashion and upholstery, to enable her to expand her knowledge of bespoke luxury leather goods and thus diversify her business.
Following a successful 25-year career in brand, design and theatre, Mia decided to change her career and used her redundancy package to help fund a two year, full time course at Capel Manor College in North London. This enabled her to learn authentic leather-craft skills within the tradition of English Saddlery and she has now qualified as a Trainee Saddle, Bridle and Harness maker.
With her newly acquired skills, Mia has diversified and incorporated many of the distinctive aspects of saddlery into developing a range of bespoke luxury non-equine commissions. Winning a QEST Scholarship will ensure that Mia can complete her training in the art of English saddle and bridle making, as well as expanding her design skills to enable a greater range of bespoke luxury leather goods. Already accomplished in brand awareness and development, Mia has brought together all her experience and after just two years is running a highly successful company. www.miasabel.com”
