Episode 24: Longarm Quilting with Adam Rateliff

This week, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Adam Rateliff: quilter, educator, and creative force behind @adamsewfun. Adam has stitched his way from a childhood love of fiber arts to a career teaching quilting around the globe, inspiring makers to embrace bold color, break a few “rules,” and have fun in their creative space.

In this conversation, Adam shares how discovering longarm quilting changed the trajectory of his life, the joys and challenges of teaching worldwide, and his advice for anyone curious about diving into this powerful quilting technique. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already in love with longarming, Adam’s insights will help you approach your projects with more confidence and joy.

We also talk about finding your creative lane, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, and the rewarding connections that come from being part of the sewing community. And, of course, we have some fun in our rapid-fire round because every great sewing conversation needs a little laughter.

💡 Follow Adam and his quilting adventures:
Instagram: @adamsewfun
Facebook: Adam Sew Fun
YouTube: Adam Sew Fun
Linktree: Adam Sew Fun Links

💬 Icebreaker: If you could instantly be amazing at any non-sewing skill or hobby, what would it be and why? Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram!

✨ Next week: Veruschka Zarate of Pride & Joy Quilting – don’t miss it!

💬 Stay connected:
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

This week, we’re slowing things down and getting personal talking about the deeper reasons why we sew. For many of us, sewing is so much more than a hobby; it’s a lifeline, a creative outlet, and a way to connect with others.

Bethany and Audra explore the mental health benefits of sewing like mindfulness, stress relief, and the joy of tangible accomplishment as well as the physical perks and brain boosts it brings, from improved hand-eye coordination to preserving cognitive function as we age. We also dig into the power of sewing to build connection, community, and confidence, backed by research that proves what sewists have known for years: this craft is good for the soul.

Along the way, we share personal stories, listener encouragement, and a few practical tips from Spool School including how painter’s tape can become your new favorite seam guide.

💬 We’d love to know what’s your “why” for sewing? Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram!

✨ Next week: Longarm Quilting with Adam Rateliff (@adamsewfun) – don’t miss it!

💬 Stay connected:
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodca

Episode 22: Pixel Quilts with Dee Bushrod
The Sewcial Hour Podcast

This week, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Dee Bushrod, the creative force behind Pixel Quilts. Dee’s work transforms photographs and images into breathtaking quilts that look like they’ve leapt straight out of a digital screen and onto fabric.

From her first Super Mario quilt in 2008 to her current portfolio of portraits, pop culture icons, and personal photo quilts, Dee has spent years perfecting her process. In this episode, she shares her journey from self-taught sewist to full-time pixel quilting artist, her tips for mastering color value and contrast, and the creative joy that comes from turning tiny fabric squares into big visual impact.

We also talk about confidence-shifting sewing projects, the makes that change how you see yourself as a creator and Dee’s take on why sewing is truly whatever you want it to be.

💡 Follow Dee’s colorful world:
Instagram: @pixelquilt
Facebook: Pixel Quilt
TikTok: @pixelquilt
Website: https://pixelquilts.com/

💬 Icebreaker: What was your confidence-shifting sewing project? Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram!

✨ Next week: Why We Sew: a heart-to-heart on the deeper reasons we pick up a needle and thread.

💬 Stay connected:
 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

Episode 21: The Great Sewing Machine Debate
The Sewcial Hour Podcast

It’s time to talk about the workhorse of every sewing room, the sewing machine! In this episode, Bethany and Audra dive into all things sewing machines: how to choose the right one, what features really matter, and how to keep your machine running like a dream.

Whether you’re shopping for your first machine, eyeing an upgrade, or just love geeking out over machine features, this episode is packed with tips for every sewist. We’ll cover everything from buying basics (new, used, vintage) to matching machine features to your sewing style: garment sewing, quilting, bag making, embroidery, and beyond.

Plus, we break down the difference between must-have features vs. fun extras, share our favorite buying tips, and discuss the importance of servicing and maintenance (spoiler: it’s more often than you think!).

In our Stitch & Share segment, we show off recent makes, and as always, we wrap up with our “You Love to See It” favorites of the week. 🎉

💬 Icebreaker: What was your first sewing machine—and do you still have it? Share your story in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram!

✨ Next week, we’re chatting with Dee Bushrod of Pixel Quilts - you don’t want to miss this one.

💬 Stay connected:
 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 20: Sewing with Unconventional Materials

This week, we’re thinking outside the fabric store! Join Bethany and Audra as we dive into the world of sewing with unconventional materials—from thrifted treasures to household odds and ends, nothing is off-limits.

We kick things off with a fun icebreaker: What’s the weirdest or most unexpected material you’ve ever sewn with? (Bethany’s answer might surprise you!) Then we explore why stepping outside traditional textiles can spark creativity, save money, and even help the planet.

We take a deep dive into upcycling, sharing tips for sourcing secondhand fabrics, tools for harvesting usable material, and ideas for turning old clothes and linens into fresh, functional projects. From sewing with cardstock to transforming sweatshirts into stylish bags, this episode is all about rethinking what’s possible at your sewing machine.

Plus, we shine the spotlight on two inspiring makers:
 🧵 @sariditty (Sarah Thomas, Moda Designer – High Flight)
♻️ @sullysupcycled (Karen Sullivan, Upcycling Advocate)

And in our “You Love to See It” segment, we celebrate the return of Project Runway and throw some love toward our fellow anti-quilt-police sewists. 👏

💬 We’d love to hear about the wildest thing you’ve ever sewn with! Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram.

🧵 Next week: The Ultimate Sewing Machine Debate – you won’t want to miss it!

💬 Stay connected:
 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 19: Sewing on a Budget – Create More, Spend Less

Sewing doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby! In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra are diving into their favorite money-saving strategies, thrifty sewing hacks, and honest talk about resisting the pressure to “buy it all.” Whether you’re just getting started or trying to rein in your fabric budget, we’ve got tips to help you stitch smarter—not spendier.

From DIY ironing tables and porcupine quills (yes, really) to remnant bins and resale goldmines, we’re sharing what works, what’s worth the investment, and how to make the most of what you already have.

Icebreaker: What’s the most surprisingly cheap or free sewing tool you’ve ever loved? Join the convo in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group and tell us yours!

In This Episode:

• How to prioritize sewing tools without breaking the bank
  
  
• Where to score affordable fabrics and notions
  
  
• Tips for organizing your scraps and purging with purpose
  
  
• A beginner-friendly mindset for building your stash slowly and intentionally

Spool School Tips:

• Audra: Create a scrap system that works for you
• Bethany: Do an annual or bi-annual purge - resell, donate, or just let it go

You Love to See It:
Bethany’s sewing retreat sold out in under 5 minutes (!), and Audra shares the joy of bringing a forgotten remnant back to life.

Next Week: Get ready for Episode 20: Sewing with Unconventional Materials—because candy wrappers, placemats, and billboard vinyl are fair game!

Stay connected:
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 18: Siah Swag Bags – with Guests Kassiah & Susan

This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re joined by the powerhouse sister duo behind Siah Swag Bags: Kassiah Myers and Susan Thiriot! What started as a handmade hustle has grown into a beloved brand known for vibrant bag-making content, must-have supplies, and community-fueled creativity.

We chat all about their journey from craft fairs and classroom teaching to running a thriving sewing business with a devoted YouTube following, Patreon crew, and live teaching events across the country. From industrial thread to industrial machines, these ladies are living the bag-making dream and bringing sewists along for the ride with their “Sew-in the States” and “Swag Dash” series.

Of course, things got off track (in the best way), as Kassiah and Susan kept us laughing and swapping stories throughout the episode. We dive into favorite and least favorite bag fabrics, what it’s like to work with family, and what advice they’d give to fellow creatives carving out their own sewing path.

Thread Talk: We put our guests on the spot to share a hot take!

Icebreaker: What’s your favorite, and least favorite, bag-making fabric? Share your take in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group under today’s episode thread!

You’ll also hear:

• Why directional fabrics can be a sneaky challenge
  
  
• How community has fueled their success
  
  
• What it really takes to run a creative business (hint: sisterly teamwork!)

Connect with Siah Swag Bags: 

• Siah Swag Bags Website
• YouTube: Siah Swag Bags
• Patreon
• Facebook Group – Siah Swag Bags
• Instagram: @siahswagbags
• ✉️ Email: [email protected]
  
  

FREE Safari Duffle Bag Pattern: https://sew4home.com/our-sew4home-classic-safari-duffle/

Coming Up Next: Episode 19: Sewing on a Budget
Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social for all the latest updates.

Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 17: Fabric Fundamentals for Sewing Bags - Choosing the Right Material for the Job

Whether you're stitching up your first tote or crafting your 50th clutch, choosing the right fabric can make or break your bag-making experience. In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra break down the essential fabric know-how every bag maker needs, from structure and durability to style and stitchability.

We’re sharing our favorite materials for different bag types, tips for handling specialty textiles like cork and vinyl, and the inside scoop on what fabrics not to use if you want your bag to last more than a weekend.

Icebreaker: What’s your go-to bag style? Bethany loves a hands-free crossbody, while Audra says… why choose just one? Share your faves in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group!

In This Episode:

• Why fabric choice matters (woven vs. non-woven, structure, and directional prints)
  
  
• How to work with specialty fabrics: cork, vinyl, waxed canvas, quilting cotton & more
  
  
• Best fabrics for different bag styles: totes, purses, backpacks, pouches, and upcycled designs
  
  
• What to keep in mind when using interfacing or stabilizers
  
  
• Creative tips for mixing textures, colors, and using leftover scraps for matching accessories

Stitch & Share:
Bethany’s deep in quilting mode, while Audra’s stitching up a summer halter jumpsuit.

You Love to See It:
Bethany celebrates her son’s first job (proud mom moment!), and Audra’s giving Dave some well-earned appreciation for his podcast support.

Next Week: We’re chatting with the founders of Siah Swag Bags, Kassiah and Susan, don’t miss it!

Stay connected:
Subscribe to the show, leave us a review, and follow along on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t forget to share your latest bag project in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group. We’d love to cheer you on!
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 16: Threading Through the Trends – What’s Hot in Sewing for 2025

From 90s plaid to visible mending, sewing in 2025 is anything but boring! In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra break down the top sewing and quilting trends shaping the creative world this year: think big bows, functional fashion, sustainable stitching, and a major romantasy aesthetic takeover. ✨

We’re chatting about what trends we love (hello, quilted everything), which ones we’re trying (visible mending and longarming!), and why some of these movements go deeper than fashion they’re about expression, sustainability, and storytelling.

Icebreaker: What sewing trend are you excited to try this year? Share your thoughts in our Facebook group The Sewcial Sewists!

Trend Talk Highlights:

• 3D florals, ruffles & oversized bows
• Nostalgic 90s prints
• Eco-conscious materials & visible mending
• Romantasy vibes in garments, bags, and quilts
• Heritage design influences
• The rise of quilted apparel (and not just jackets anymore)

Sewcial Spotlight:
Bethany highlights Karlee Porter Design and her stunning free-motion graffiti quilting.
Audra shares design inspo from Olivia Herrick on Instagram.

Karlee Porter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karleeporterdesign/

Olivia Herrick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliviaherrickdesign/

You Love to See It:
Bethany embraces the summer slow down, while Audra finds joy in a quote that stopped her in her tracks.

Next Week: We’re kicking off a new series all about bag making basics starting with fabric fundamentals!

Stay connected:
Follow us @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe on your favorite platform, and leave us a review to help more sewists find the show!

Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1ZCHvpEhqu/

Episode 15: Sewing in the Margins of Life – Making Time for Creativity Amid Chaos

Life gets busy—like really busy. Between work, family, adulting, and everything in between, finding time to sew can feel nearly impossible. In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra get real about the struggle to carve out creative time in hectic seasons and why sewing isn’t just a hobby - it’s self-care.

We’re sharing personal stories, relatable moments (yes, Audra once stitched while getting her hair foiled!), and practical strategies for squeezing in sewing—even in 10-minute bursts. Whether you’re stitching during nap time, lunch breaks, or in the pickup line, we’re here to remind you: it counts.

Icebreaker: What’s the most unexpected place or moment you’ve managed to sneak in some sewing? Join the convo in our Facebook group, The Sewcial Sewists!

Spool School: Clean your machine. Seriously. Also… Audra learns some hard truths about interfacing.

Topics include:

• Reframing sewing as a necessity, not a luxury
  
  
• Giving yourself permission to make
  
  
• Creative ways to sew in short, doable sessions
  
  
• Tips for working sewing into travel, family life, and even your social calendar
  
  

❤️ You Love to See It: Bethany’s new shower and Audra’s ironing therapy moment (yes, really).

📅 Next Week: Threading Through the Trends – we’re chatting all about what’s hot in the sewing world right now!

Stay connected:
Follow us @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and leave us a review if you're enjoying the show. Every stitch of support helps!