The Sewing Social

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What happens when fashion design dreams take an unexpected turn? In this episode, Rosie Briscoe, better known as The Linen Thief, shares her creative journey into upcycling, thrift flips and sustainable sewing.

Rosie explores how second-hand fabrics and pre-loved clothing can be transformed into unique, wearable pieces through creativity, experimentation and a willingness to think differently about fashion. She discusses the importance of sustainability, making the most of what you already have, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.

Whether you're passionate about sewing, love hunting for charity shop bargains, or want to embrace a more sustainable approach to fashion, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you rethink your wardrobe and discover the possibilities of upcycling.

In this episode, we explore:

• Rosie's journey from fashion design ambitions to becoming The Linen Thief.
• How upcycling and thrift flips turn pre-loved clothing into something new.
• Sustainable fashion and reducing textile waste through creative reuse.
• Finding inspiration in second-hand fabrics and forgotten garments.
• Building sewing confidence through experimentation and creativity.
• The importance of community, shared knowledge and support in sewing.
• Why you don't need to buy new to create something original.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Instagram: @linen_thief

Tiktok: @linen_thief

Facebook: @linen_thief

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rosie and her sewing journey
02:20 Starting sewing during lockdown and learning through trial and error
07:14 The moment Rosie realised her niche in thrift flips
11:30 The story behind the Linen Thief name and brand identity
16:49 Most unpromising garments turned into brilliant creations
22:21 Learning to see potential in fabrics and garments
25:37 What draws Rosie to designer fashion and its details
30:50 Rosie's thoughts on sustainability and secondhand shopping
38:53 Rosie's upcoming project: a photo shoot collection
41:25 Rosie's plans for a new creative collection
43:41 Where to find Rosie online and community support

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I’m joined by Chris Wincott (Haus of Wincott) to talk about his journey from experimenting with sewing as a child to developing his own ideas around fashion, textiles and design.

You might recognise Chris from M&S: Dress the Nation, but his creative journey goes much further than the show. We talk about how his early experiences with sewing developed into a passion for fashion, and how his own experiences have influenced the work he wants to create.

Chris has a particular interest in using fashion and textiles to start conversations around men's mental health, as well as exploring how clothing can be more innovative, sustainable and responsive. We chat about the ideas behind some of his projects, the role that sustainability plays in his work, and why clothing can be about so much more than simply what we wear.

We also talk about what happens after appearing on a TV competition and deciding to build something for yourself. Chris is now developing his own fashion house, Haus Of Wincott, and shares his ambitions for the brand and where he wants to take his work next.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Chris's journey into sewing and fashion
• His experience on M&S: Dress the Nation
• Designing textiles with a focus on men's mental health
• Sustainability and making fashion more thoughtfully
• Innovative and reactive clothing
• How personal experiences influence creative work
• Building Haus Of Wincott
• The relationship between fashion, identity and wellbeing
• What it really means to build a career as an independent designer

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Instagram: @hausofwincott

                  : @lilsibwinnie

Website: www.hausofwincott.com

Podcast: That's Sew Fashion

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Chris's background in fashion
01:57 Early influences and childhood sewing experiments
03:26 Studying textiles and fashion, and final collection themes
04:53 Designing for men's mental health and emotional wellbeing
05:59 Innovations in reactive and sensory clothing
07:51 Color psychology and mood regulation in fashion
10:59 Experience on M&S Dress the Nation and lessons learned
16:10 Most proud moment on the TV show and overcoming pressure
18:01 Building Haus of Wincott and future vision
21:08 Sustainable fashion week collection and inspiration
25:02 Upcoming projects, collaborations, and podcast
33:03 Final thoughts, advice, and where to find Chris

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What does it take to turn a love of sewing into a successful sewing pattern and fabric business?

In this episode of The Sewing Social, I’m joined by Clair and Charlotte from Emporia Patterns to talk about their journey through the sewing world - from their early experiences with making and dressmaking to building an independent pattern and fabric business.

We chat about designing sewing patterns, the hardships of a small business and  how the sewing community has evolved alongside the rise of The Great British Sewing Bee.

Clair and Charlotte share what they’ve learnt along the way, how their approach to pattern design has developed, and what it’s really like turning something you love into a business.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How Clair and Charlotte first discovered sewing and dressmaking
• The journey from sewing enthusiast to independent sewing pattern designer
• How Emporia Patterns came to be
• What goes into creating and developing a sewing pattern
• Building a sewing business and connecting with the sewing community
• How The Great British Sewing Bee has influenced the world of sewing
• The changing landscape of the independent sewing pattern industry
• Finding your own creative style
• The realities of running a small creative business
• What keeps them excited about sewing and making

If you love sewing, dressmaking, indie sewing patterns, fabric and The Great British Sewing Bee, this is one to listen to.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Website: www.emporia-fabric.co.uk

Instagram: @emporia_patterns

                  : @emporia_designer

                  : @lottejamiesoncrafts

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clair and Charlotte from Emporia Patterns
00:10 Early sewing stories and childhood influences
00:14 Clair's background in costume and clothing technology
00:16 The growth of the fabric shop and pattern business
00:17 Impact of COVID and online community support
00:21 Business challenges and fabric sale during tough times
00:27 Moving from shop to office and back to home
00:34 The importance of honesty and sharing struggles
00:54 Pattern development process and creative collaboration
01:02 The role of the Great British Sewing Bee and community
01:25 Favourite patterns and design inspirations
01:27 Future plans and hopes for Emporia Patterns

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Neil O’Dwyer has had anything but a conventional career. In this episode of The Sewing Social, Neil shares his unconventional journey from banking to tailoring, teaching and storytelling, and the unexpected role that sewing has played along the way.

We talk about what first drew Neil to tailoring and sewing, making a career change later in life, and how a series of unexpected opportunities led him from one career to the next. From working in banking to becoming a tailor, making lingerie for strippers, working as a film extra and eventually teaching maths and sewing, Neil’s career has taken some surprising turns.

Neil also talks about his storytelling show, Banker, Tailor, Teacher, Guy, and the experiences that inspired it. We explore creativity, learning new skills, changing careers and saying yes to opportunities, even when you don't know exactly where they might lead.

It's a conversation about work, sewing, creativity and finding your way — with a reminder that there isn't necessarily one right career path, and that it's never too late to learn something new or take things in a completely different direction.

Key Topics: 

• Neil’s diverse career journey from banking to tailoring to teaching and storytelling
• The importance of saying yes to opportunities and embracing change
• How creativity can be a lifelong pursuit and a career path
• Experiences at Saville Row and the impact on Neil’s skills
• Using storytelling to inspire students and share life lessons
• Neil’s involvement in Edinburgh Fringe and clown courses
• The value of networking and connections in career development
• Advice for those considering career changes and pursuing passions

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Instagram: @uphereimalreadythere

                    @bankertailorteacherguy

Substack: Career Escapism

Chapters

00:00 Neil’s diverse career journey from banking to storytelling
01:53 The leap from banking to tailoring inspired by a friend
03:55 Training at Newham College and working on Savile Row
06:02 Experiences working at Savile Row and self-training
08:07 Transitioning from tailoring to film and fashion projects
09:57 Storytelling at Edinburgh Fringe and performing on stage
11:53 The importance of saying yes and embracing new experiences
13:54 Neil’s advice for career changers and lifelong learning
15:50 Using storytelling to inspire students and share life lessons
18:02 Balancing creativity with teaching and everyday life
19:54 Upcoming projects and future plans for Neil

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What happens when a passion for sewing grows into a platform designed to help sewists make more sustainable choices?

In this episode of The Sewing Social, Caroline Bacle joins us to talk about her journey from Montreal to London, her love of sewing and dressmaking, and the story behind Destasher - a platform created to help sewists give unwanted fabrics, sewing patterns, haberdashery and other sewing supplies a second life.

Caroline shares how her own experiences as a sewist led her to think differently about the amount of fabric and sewing supplies we accumulate, and how Destasher has grown into a community where sewists can buy, sell, share and discover materials that might otherwise go unused.

We chat about sustainable sewing, slow fashion, fabric destashing and the sewing community, as well as the challenges of building a platform around a community of people who love to make their own clothes.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Caroline's journey from Montreal to London
• How she discovered her passion for sewing and dressmaking
• The story behind Destasher
• Why sewists end up with so much fabric and sewing stash
• Fabric destashing and giving unwanted materials a second life
• The connection between sewing, slow fashion and conscious consumption
• Building a community around sewing and making
• The challenges of creating a platform for the sewing community
• Why sharing resources can be an important part of more sustainable sewing
• What she has learned from the sewing community along the way
• The future of Destasher and where Caroline hopes to take it next

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Instagram: @destasher_uk

Website: www.destasher.co.uk

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Caroline Bacle and her sewing journey
00:52 How lockdown sparked Caroline’s passion for sewing
02:03 The story behind Destasher and its community focus
02:59 Upcoming sewing events and initiatives
04:09 Tips for managing your sewing stash
05:06 The importance of sustainability and storytelling in textiles
06:00 Caroline’s future vision for Destasher
07:04 Closing thoughts and how to connect with Caroline

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, Lydia Finney (known online as "Lovely Lydia") talks about her journey into fabric printing, dressmaking and making clothes, exploring the technical skills and creative processes behind her work.

We chat about combining traditional sewing and textile techniques with modern creativity, developing confidence as a maker, and why craft should be accessible and inclusive to everyone - whatever your experience or skill level.

From fabric design and printing to dressmaking and the realities of learning new sewing skills, Lydia shares what she has discovered along the way and what continues to inspire her as a maker.

Whether you're new to sewing, an experienced dressmaker, or simply interested in fabric and textiles, this episode is full of inspiration and practical insight.

Key Topics: 

• Lydia's transition from civil service to fabric printing and dressmaking
• The importance of technical skills in sewing and printing
• How to combine fabric printing with garment making
• The role of colour and pattern in personal style
• Opportunities for craft education and inclusivity in the community
• The process of lino and woodblock printing for textiles
• Upcycling garments with fabric printing
• Overcoming self-doubt and celebrating craft achievements

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Instagram: @lovely_._lydia

                  : @she_who_sews

Website: www.lovelylydia.co.uk

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction to Lydia Finney and her creative background
04:05 Discovering vintage Bernina and early sewing experiences
07:22 The technical complexity of dressmaking and its artistry
08:08 The reality of making mistakes and sharing imperfect work
09:23 The importance of craftsmanship in mass-produced clothing
11:22 Lydia's career before craft and her move to Suffolk
12:47 Everyone's creative potential and opportunities for craft
14:02 The accessibility of lino and block printing for beginners
15:52 Tools and techniques for lino and woodblock printing
16:39 The joy of teaching and inspiring all ages in craft
17:25 Access to craft
20:58 Lydia's first lino design and inspiration from Suffolk
22:28 Creating unique garments with fabric printing
24:28 Combining fabric printing with sewing for custom designs
27:24 Fixing fabric paint and tools for printing
28:34 The process of creating lino designs and tools needed
31:47 Safety tips for lino carving and craft tools
32:36 Natural fabrics versus synthetics for printing
33:25 The role of colour in Lydia's creative life
34:45 Upcoming projects and workshops with Lydia 

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David Olaniyi joins The Sewing Social Podcast to share the story behind his journey from dance to fashion and tailoring, and how his creative background has shaped the way he designs today.

David talks openly about his experience on Dress the Nation with Marks & Spencer, the challenges of putting his tailoring skills to the test, and what it takes to build a career in the fashion industry.

Known for blending streetwear with traditional tailoring, David also takes us behind the scenes of his creative process - from developing ideas and finding his signature style to navigating the realities of working as a tailor and designer.

In this episode, we explore tailoring, menswear, and fashion design, as David shares what he’s learned so far and where he wants to take his craft next.

Key Topics: 

• David's transition from dance to tailoring
• His experience on Dress the Nation and winning the competition
• The concept of structured streetwear blending tailoring and street style
• The process of designing and creating a collection for Marks and Spencer's
• Inspiration from Japanese fashion and travel influences
• The importance of technical skills like tailoring in streetwear design
• Future plans including moving to Japan for 3 months and learning new techniques
• The role of confidence and spontaneity in creative success

Follow me: 

Website: http://www.thedalythreadstudio - website will soon be live! 

I will be teaching anyone who wants to learn how to sew in the Nottingham area and beyond! 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details:

Website: https://www.davidolaniyi.co.uk

Instagram: @bydavidolaniyi

Tiktok: @bydavidolaniyi

Bespoke Tailoring Course - Newham College:

https://newham.ac.uk/course/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/

Kapital - Pillow Bomber Jacket: 

https://www.kapital.jp/

Instagram: @kapitalglobal

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and David’s background in dance and fashion

01:01 How David’s dance career led to an interest in tailoring

02:27 Learning to sew and construct garments from wardrobe staff

04:06 Transition from dance to professional tailoring and fashion

05:34 Winning Dress the Nation and the application process

10:37 The intense process of TV casting and experience on the show

11:46 Lessons learned from winning the competition

13:50 Favorite pieces from the show and designing for the final collection

16:51 Post-show career, working at Marks and Spencer’s, and design philosophy

28:43 Inspiration sources including travel and Japanese fashion

30:01 Deconstructing a Japanese jacket and future plans

32:23 Game of this or that: style preferences and techniques

34:26 Where to find David online and upcoming projects

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Jane Harbison, founder of Jane Harbison Design, to explore her inspiring journey into the world of dressmaking, sewing pattern design and creative entrepreneurship. 

Jane shares how she followed her passion for sewing, identified a gap in the market for men's and boys' sewing patterns, and built a business around helping more people enjoy making their own clothes.

We chat about the importance of the creative process, why sewing is about so much more than the finished garment, and how handmade projects can become meaningful gifts that tell a story. 

Jane also shares her thoughts on designing accessible sewing patterns, nurturing creativity and building confidence through making.

Whether you're interested in dressmaking, sewing patterns for men and boys, handmade gifts, or you're dreaming of turning your creative hobby into a business, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice and thoughtful conversation.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Jane's journey from accounting to sewing pattern designer.
• Creating sewing patterns for men and boys.
• Finding gaps in the sewing pattern market.
• The joy of the creative process and handmade sewing.
• Building a creative business around your passion.
• Why handmade garments and gifts tell a unique story.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Website: Jane Harbison Design - https://janeharbison.com.au/ 

Instagram: @JaneHarbisonDesign 

Pinterest: Jane Harbison Design - https://au.pinterest.com/janeharbison/

Skool: The Pocket Square Club - https://www.skool.com/the-pocket-square-club-3733/about?sc=1

YouTube: Jane Harbison Design - https://www.youtube.com/@janeharbisondesignau

Creative Process document: 

https://janeharbison.com.au/blogs/puckerup-sewing-blog/how-to-give-gifts-that-speak-their-love-languages

Other Information: 

• Destasher Summer Destash event - https://www.destasher.co.uk/blog/summer-stash-reset

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What does it take to create beautifully fitting garments? 

In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Helen Shine, an expert pattern cutter whose impressive career has seen her work with renowned fashion brands including Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen and many more.

Helen shares her journey from the world of high-end fashion to running her own pattern cutting workshops, sewing retreats and dressmaking courses in Cornwall.

We explore the art of pattern cutting, why achieving a great fit is about so much more than standard sizing, and how understanding garment construction can transform your sewing.

We also discuss sustainable fashion, creating clothes that are made to last, and Helen's specialist work designing bespoke wedding dress patterns, helping brides bring their dream gowns to life.

Whether you're passionate about dressmaking, sewing your own clothes, pattern cutting or improving the fit of your handmade wardrobe, this episode is packed with inspiration, expert advice and practical insights.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Helen's career working with leading fashion brands, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen.
• The fundamentals of pattern cutting and garment construction.
• Why fit is the key to creating clothes you'll love to wear.
• Sustainable fashion and making garments that last.
• Pattern cutting workshops and sewing retreats in Cornwall.
• Designing bespoke wedding dress patterns and bridal wear.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Website: www.dotncross.com

Instagram: @dot.n.cross

Links: 

• Dot n Cross Pattern Cutting Retreats in Cornwall: https://dotncross.com/retreats - I forgot to mention that the retreat location is a 15 minutes taxi journey from Penzance train station, which has direct links to many of the major cities.
• 1-1 Wedding dress workshop: https://dotncross.com/make-your-own-wedding-dress-class
• Group sewing and pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/group-sewing-classes-cornwall
• 1-1 pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/pattern-cutting-workshops
• Link to Vogue article about the Cate Blanchett dress, designed by Mary Katrantzou: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/cate-blanchetts-mary-katrantzou-cannes-dress

Chapters: 

00:10 Helen Shine: A Journey into Pattern Cutting

04:48 Education and Early Career in Fashion

10:07 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design

10:18 Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching

15:00 Establishing Dot and Cross: Workshops and Community

17:51 Exploring Unique Retreats in Cornwall

23:20 In-Depth Wedding Dress Pattern Cutting Classes

27:42 The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society

31:57 The Dress for Cate Blanchett

34:34 Engineering Prints in Fashion

35:50 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design

36:04 Future Plans and Exciting Developments

41:31 Join my Substack

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What does it take to grow a family fabric business that has stood the test of time?

In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics to chat about her family's remarkable 26-year journey in the fabric industry. 

From running a traditional fabric shop to embracing the world of online retail, Kayleigh shares how the business has evolved while staying true to its passion for quality fabrics and exceptional customer service.

We also discuss the importance of authenticity on social media, the incredible community that surrounds sewing, and why encouraging new sewists is so important to her. 

Along the way, Kayleigh shares the touching story behind her work creating tiny stockings for babies in neonatal units, and how sewing can be a powerful way to bring comfort and connection.

Whether you're looking for tips on choosing dressmaking fabrics, curious about the story behind one of the UK's best-loved fabric shops, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring conversations about creativity, community and sewing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The story behind 1st For Fabrics and its 26-year family history.
• How the fabric industry has changed over the years.
• Choosing the right dressmaking fabrics with confidence.
• Building an authentic presence on social media.
• Supporting new sewists and growing the sewing community.
• Kayleigh's inspiring neonatal stocking project.
• Creativity, community and the joy of sewing.

Follow me: 

Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

                     @thedalythread

Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod

If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 

Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod

Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:

[email protected]

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 

The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:

• Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com

     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

• Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/

     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 

Website: www.1stforfabrics.co.uk

Instagram: @1stforfabrics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh and First of Fabrics
02:13 The origins of the family business in the North East
04:23 Adapting to market changes and online sales
06:00 Advice for first-time sewists and beginners
11:52 The story behind bag kits and limited fabrics
15:01 Kayleigh's sewing journey and personal story
19:53 Charitable sewing: neonatal stockings for charity
22:05 Social media tips for small businesses
24:00 Upcoming plans and quick fire questions