Sew What's New? In the biscuit tin

Join us in this episode as we chat with Leena Norms about her journey into sustainable fashion, her sewing projects, and managing a creative wardrobe. If you're passionate about eco-friendly practices, body positivity, and embracing your craft, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories.

• Leena Norms’ background and evolution from marketing to full-time content creator

• The role of sewing in environmental sustainability and mindful consumption

• Strategies for flexible patterns and adaptable garments for changing bodies

• Navigating fabric and pattern choices to reflect personal style and body flux

• Managing fabric and clothing stashes mindfully and avoiding overconsumption

• Ideas for creative reuse: turning worn-out clothes into bags, quilts, or other keepsakes

• The psychology and dopamine cycle behind fabric shopping and sewing projects

• Incorporating vintage and secondhand shopping as sustainable and meaningful habits

00:00 - Introduction to Leena Norms and her journey into sewing and sustainability

02:49 - Leena discusses her background in marketing and transition to sewing full-time

09:17 - The importance of sewing for climate consciousness and ethical fashion choices

10:52 - How body changes influence sewing patterns and garment adjustments

12:36 - The value of vintage shopping and secondhand clothing in sustainable wardrobe planning

15:23 - Patterns recommended for adaptable fit and growing bodies—Suvi Kaftan and Henrietta Skirt

20:21 - Handling fabric stash growth responsibly and the psychology behind fabric buying

25:00 - How to repurpose beloved but ill-fitting garments into bags or decor

30:00 - Patterns and projects for the busy sewist or those needing quick projects

35:34 - The importance of sewing for joy and mental well-being, not just productivity

42:33 - Tools and apps to organize your wardrobe and fabric collection effectively

50:54 - The concept of deadstock fabric and its implications in sustainable fashion

58:37 - Ethical shopping: supporting local, small businesses, and conscious consumption

61:41 - Final thoughts on balancing creative passion with environmental responsibility

• Leena Norms on YouTube – Sustainable fashion, sewing tutorials, and style tips

• Indyx– Wardrobe organization and outfit planning tool

• Henrietta Skirt Pattern by Spaghetti Western – Versatile pattern for various fabrics and sizes

• Suvi Kaftan and Dress Pattern – Adjustable, inclusive fits for evolving bodies

• Big Four Pattern Brands – Recognized for their extensive range but know their limitations

• Vintage and Secondhand Fashion Platforms – Secondhand shopping, vintage finds, and sustainable fashion

• https://www.youtube.com/@leenanorms

• The role of pattern adaptability in body flux management

• Creative ways to signify sentimental clothing, like transforming into bags

• How sewing can serve as a mindfulness practice, reducing overconsumption and fostering joy

Main Topics:Timeline Highlights:Resources & Recommendations:Connect with Leena Norms:Additional Insights: Thank you for listening! For questions, comments, or topic suggestions, reach out via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sewwhatsnewpod/ or email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations on sustainable creativity and mindful living. 

Hey everyone

Today's episode was record on 20th March 2026 on the Stitch stage at the business design centre in London.

Thank you to all the wonderful people who attended.

Thank you to Kate of Ripper Seams for being our guest.

We hope you enjoy this episode where we keep it real. We share sewing dilemmas and confessions.

In this episode, hosts Samantha and Jess explore the concept of fabric stashing, its cultural implications, and how it relates to identity and consumer habits in the sewing community. They share personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips for supporting independent businesses while managing fabric collections.

Sew What's New Podcast - https://sewwhatsnewpodcast.com

Support Endometriosis UK - https://www.endometriosis-uk.org

Liberty Fabrics - https://www.libertylondon.com

Wilder Fabrics - https://wilderfabrics.com

Sew me Sunshine Fabric Shop - https://sewmesunshine.com

Jay Cots Fabrics - https://jaysfabrics.co.uk

William G Fabrics - https://williamg.co.uk

 guest links

Instagram - https://instagram.com/sewwhatsnew

YouTube - https://youtube.com/sewwhatsnew

Email - [email protected]

 keywords

sewing, fabric stash, sewing community, independent shops, fabric buying habits, sewing tips, mental health and sewing, sustainable sewing, sewing hobbies, fabric shopping

 key  topics

The evolution of the term 'stash' in sewing culture

The psychological and social reasons for fabric collecting

Impact of COVID-19 on fabric shopping and sewing community

Supporting independent fabric shops and online resources

Strategies for managing fabric stash and supporting sustainable sewing

 sound bites

"Fabric stashing is not a personality."

"Anton Dubèche is coming to a VIP event for fundraisers."

"Nothing will beat the prep I did for the sleeve episode."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode

03:06 Exciting Events and Community Engagement

05:52 Sewing and Running: A Unique Community

08:54 Personal Highlights and Upcoming Events

11:57 Fabric Choices and Creative Processes

14:58 Seam Allowances: A Deep Dive

23:56 Main Topic: Fabric Stashing is Not a Personality

25:36 The Evolution of Fabric Stashing

28:03 The Impact of COVID on Fabric Buying

30:00 Navigating the Online Fabric Shopping Experience

34:01 The Dilemma of Excess Fabric

38:00 Conscious Making and Wardrobe Planning

43:01 Supporting Independent Fabric Shops

45:59 The Psychology of Fabric Buying

49:55 Creating a Creative Breathing Space

 resources

In this episode, Jess and Sam welcome Ruana, the Yorkshire Sew Girl, to discuss a variety of topics ranging from biscuits to sewing. They explore the significance of the biscuit question as an icebreaker, share personal stories about their sewing journeys, and delve into the challenges and joys of sewing during lockdown. The conversation also touches on the divisive topic of zero waste patterns, the guilt associated with fabric scraps, and the importance of intentional fabric buying. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the supportive nature of the sewing community and the personal connections that enhance the craft. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the journey of sewing, emphasizing the importance of community, the learning process, and the joy of creating. They discuss the challenges faced by beginners, the significance of embracing mistakes, and the value of choosing the right patterns. The dialogue highlights the social aspects of sewing, the need for patience, and the excitement of personal style development. The speakers also touch on the concept of 'adventurous beginner' and the importance of celebrating progress in one's sewing journey.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

06:02 Biscuit Preferences and Personalities

12:05 Learning to Sew: The Early Days

18:00 Starting a YouTube Channel and Community Engagement

24:51 The Debate on Wearability and Style

33:37 The Social Side of Sewing

41:46 Connecting with the Sewing Community

48:05 Navigating the Beginner's Journey in Sewing

55:57 The Importance of Skill Development

01:10:54 Celebrating Progress and Community in Sewing

In this episode of 'So What's New in the Biscuit Tin', hosts Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding sewing, fashion, and community engagement. They discuss the concept of sack dresses, listener feedback on their previous episodes, and the importance of hobbies outside of sewing. The conversation also touches on upcoming events, personal milestones, and the intersection of fashion and body politics, emphasizing the need for self-expression and comfort in clothing choices. In this episode, Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding fashion, body image, and the sewing community. They discuss the rise of conservative fashion trends, the importance of comfort in clothing choices, and the significance of understanding others' fashion decisions. The conversation also delves into the concept of zero waste patterns, the frustrations of inconsistent seam allowances in patterns, and the implications of red carpet fashion. Finally, they provide insights on building connections within the sewing community, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and forming friendships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Season Overview

02:13 Discussion on Sack Dresses

03:34 Listener Feedback and Community Engagement

06:31 Exploring Other Hobbies

10:15 Upcoming Events and Announcements

15:43 Celebrating Milestones and Achievements

21:49 Sewing Projects and Personal Reflections

24:49 Celebrating Creativity in Sewing

25:27 The Great British Sewing Bee and Zero Waste Patterns

26:57 The Backlash Against Zero Waste Fashion

29:45 Fashion, Comfort, and Body Politics

32:53 The Politics of Fashion and Body Image

35:18 Fashion as a Political Statement

37:44 The Role of Zero Waste Patterns in Fashion

39:46 Personal Choices in Fashion and Body Representation

50:05 Rants and Reflections on Pattern Making

51:22 Understanding Seam Allowances in Patterns

56:33 Fashion Trends and Red Carpet Looks

01:03:10 Building Connections in the Sewing Community

Summary

In this episode, Jess and Samantha explore the complexities of identity and community in the world of sewing and hobbies. They discuss the natural shifts in interests, the importance of maintaining connections with friends, and the pressures of societal expectations in fashion. The conversation emphasizes the value of creativity, personal expression, and the acceptance of evolving identities.

Takeaways

It's okay to transition between hobbies and interests.

Sewing can be a significant part of one's identity.

Community and friendships can evolve beyond shared hobbies.

Fashion trends often reflect deeper societal issues.

Creativity can manifest in various forms, not just sewing.

It's important to recognize the pressures of societal expectations in fashion.

High agency hobbies can lead to decision fatigue.

Flexibility in identity allows for personal growth.

Real friends will support you regardless of your hobbies.

Embracing creativity can lead to unexpected joy.

Titles

When Sewing Isn't Your Main Thing

Navigating Hobbies and Identity

Sound bites

"Your outfit is your outfit."

"Sewing is a high agency hobby."

"Don't put yourself in a box."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catch-Up

18:31 Navigating Shifts in Hobbies

42:56 Identity and Community in Sewing

01:00:12 Fashion Trends and Personal Expression

Summary

In this episode of "So What's New in the Biscuit Tim," hosts Samantha Snoad and Jess kick off Season 4 with an exciting and unfiltered approach. They discuss their shared birthday and the new season's theme of bravery and honesty, emphasizing the importance of having open conversations. The hosts reflect on their experiences from the previous season, highlighting how much listeners appreciated their candid discussions. They also tease an upcoming surprise for their audience, hinting at a collaborative project that listeners can participate in, set to launch at the end of March. Throughout the episode, they share personal anecdotes, including their recent lunch meeting where they planned the season, and delve into their individual goals for the year, focusing on intentionality in their sewing practices and lifestyle choices.

Keywords

podcast, sewing, unfiltered conversations, creativity, indie patterns, sewing community, personal growth, fabric quality, sewing goals, season four

Takeaways

We're going to be brave, we're going to be unfiltered.

It's about making space for those conversations.

You don't have to buy to have a great time.

Sound bites

"We're going to be brave, we're going to be unfiltered."

"You don't have to buy to have a great time."

"Living bravely, that's what we're doing."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Season 4

01:26 The Unfiltered Approach

10:29 Ins and Outs for 2026

21:21 Creating Space for Creativity

27:25 Intentionality in Creativity

30:05 Choosing a Yearly Theme

33:47 Building Community and Adult Friendships

39:55 Feedback and Growth in the Sewing Community

52:02 Celebrating the Joy of Sewing

Summary

In this episode, Samantha and Jess reconnect after a long break, sharing personal updates, including family milestones and creative endeavors. They discuss their experiences at sewing shows, charity initiatives, and the therapeutic nature of quilting. The conversation also touches on their recent experiences with music, film, and reading, as well as the challenges of teaching and the importance of finding joy in creativity. In this engaging conversation, Samantha and Jess explore various themes related to sewing, creativity, and personal challenges. They discuss their recent fabric choices, the joy of sewing, and the emotional complexities of decluttering their wardrobes. The conversation also touches on the calming effects of hand sewing, the rediscovery of musical passions, and the importance of community engagement in shaping future podcast content. Throughout, they share personal anecdotes and practical advice, creating a relatable and inspiring dialogue for listeners.

Takeaways

Life can be overwhelming, but it's important to reconnect with friends.

Becoming an aunt is a significant milestone that brings joy.

Sewing shows provide inspiration and community engagement.

Charity work can have a direct impact on local initiatives.

Experiencing music and film can deepen appreciation for artists.

Reading can be a source of comfort and escape.

Teaching can be challenging, especially with the rise of AI.

Finding joy in creativity is essential for mental well-being.

Quilting allows for a relaxing and therapeutic creative outlet.

Making small choices can help regain a sense of agency. Sewing can be a joyful and creative outlet.

Choosing the right fabric can enhance garment creation.

Decluttering your wardrobe can lead to a more enjoyable sewing experience.

Hand sewing can be a calming and meditative practice.

Rediscovering past hobbies can reignite passion and creativity.

Community feedback is valuable for shaping future content.

Sewing challenges often stem from space and organization issues.

Emotional attachments to handmade garments can complicate decluttering.

Exploring new patterns can inspire creativity in sewing.

Engaging with listeners can strengthen community ties.

Keywords

podcast, sewing, creativity, personal updates, charity, music, film, reading, teaching, quilting, sewing, fabric, wardrobe, decluttering, creativity, hand sewing, music, coat patterns, community, podcast

Hey lovely listeners

Here is Episode 7.

In this episode, Samantha and Jess discuss the current state of sewing patterns, focusing on the impact of trends, the challenges of beginner patterns, and the importance of creativity in sewing. They explore the frustrations of homogenization in pattern design and the need for more diverse and inspiring options. The conversation also highlights the significance of valuing the creative process over mere production, encouraging listeners to embrace challenges and explore their sewing journeys.

Hey lovely listeners. You may have noticed Episode 5 was missing. Here it is and we explain what happened, alongside sewing chat and much more.