Karin Hellaby was born in the north east of England to Norwegian parents. She is now enjoying life in semi-retirement after owning Quilters Haven, one of the UK’s leading shops for 23 years.
Karin is the author of 11 patchwork and quilting books, offering readers multi-techniques within new designs. Her books have appeared on The Quilt Show in America, Sewing Quarter and Create and Craft TV.
Qualified to teach, with a Home Economics degree in education, Karin has taught in countries all over the world, including quilting shows in Houston, Paducah, Dubai, Canada, Spain, Germany and New Zealand. There are several YouTube videos featuring Karin demonstrating techniques from her books.
Traveling is one of Karin’s passions and she is a regular textile expert/teacher on holidays with Stitchtopia, part of Arena Travel as well as having taught on four cruises for Stitchin Heaven.
Karin feels her greatest achievement was to bring up her three sons on her own. She started writing books to help support them through university. Ross in Hong Kong, Jason in London and Alexander in Singapore are all leading their own independent lives.
Watch Karin on Sewing Quarter. Fast forward to 40 minutes.