From rags to stitches: Young Project Fashion designers are happiest with a sewing machine

12-year-old Erin Hopkins, left, and 14-year-old Leila Mellett, right, with Beth Brady, 17, wearing some of the garments they created as students with Project Fashion. Picture Moya Nolan

At just 12 years old, fashion designer Erin Hopkins already has a string of commissions under her belt which include a formal dress made especially for her teacher.

The first-year student of St Gerard's School in Bray, Co Wicklow, is looking forward to showcasing her collection at Project Fashion’s Young Designer of the Year awards, which will take place in January at Croke Park.