Deborah trained at Canterbury College of Art where she studied Graphic Design, and then at Goldsmiths’ College from where she has a BA (hons) degree in fine art textiles. After graduating in 1978 she continued her art practice producing divergent work in the fields of painting, printmaking, decorative art and textiles, as well as teaching in adult and further education. Between 1980 and 1983 she worked for the Inner London Education Authority as an advisory teacher with the Inspectorate for Art and Design, supporting tutors and lecturers in the fields of textiles and crafts by running in-service training, and facilitating teaching opportunities and developments throughout the inner London area.

In the early 1980’s she set up her studio in Lots Road, Chelsea, supplying Liberty’s as well as selling from the Apple Market, Covent Garden, then London’s flagship venue for top quality designer-makers. In the 80's and 90's she exhibited and sold from her own studio gallery in the Portobello Road.