Today we’re thrilled to welcome back Susan Khalje of Susan Khalje Couture. Susan first joined us on Sew & So in 2023 (Episode 75), where she shared her remarkable journey into couture sewing and her passion for teaching these refined techniques around the world. Since then, her work has continued to evolve—expanding her global reach through online education and immersive experiences abroad. Widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities on couture sewing, Susan trained at the legendary New York salon Chez Cez et Bez, designed on Seventh Avenue, and later built a celebrated custom bridal and eveningwear business before dedicating herself fully to teaching.

A longtime contributing editor to Threads Magazine and author of Bridal Couture: Fine Sewing Techniques for Wedding Gowns and Evening Wear and Linen and Cotton: Classic Sewing Techniques, many also recognize her from Sew Much More, which aired for six years on HGTV and DIY Network. Today, she continues to inspire sewists worldwide through her Couture Sewing School, her online Couture Sewing Club, and her curated educational trips to Paris and London.

(2:40) Susan recaps her journey to couture sewing.

(5:05) what’s Susan been doing since her last visit with us in 2023?

(5:42) Her Couture Sewing Club has taught sewists worldwide. She talks about it’s beginning and how it’s evolved. Also, what’s important to her about this online community?

(7:25) Couture sewing is very tactile. How does she teach this online?

(8:52) What’s her favorite couture technique?(10:36)Susan explains couture sewing

(12:24) Is every garment designed with the owner and event in mind? Hear her very unique point of view!

(12:33) How long does it take to create a couture item?

(14:08) What’s it like for her to experience a student’s first “ A Ha” moment?

(15:16) Why are her curated trips to Paris and London so special? What do the participants learn?

(18:01) What’s her favorite thing to do on these trips?

(19:04) What continues to inspire her?

(20:42) What changes has she seen in the sewing audience since she’s been involved in writing/teaching?

(23:25) What’s next for her and what’s her dream?

(25:05) Is there a question we didn’t ask that she wishes we had asked? Well, get with a group of people who sew!

(26:10) Want to contact Susan? [email protected]

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