The Sewing Social

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In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with sewing and upcycling creator Paige Joanna Watts for an inspiring deep-dive into handmade fashion, creativity, and building a craft-based business. 

Paige shares how she fell in love with sewing, why valuing handmade clothing matters, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes at Friday Pattern Company. 

We chat about her passion for thrifting and creative upcycling, the projects she’s most excited about right now, and the launch of her adorable doll-making pattern brand, Podgekins. 

Paige also offers practical advice for sewists, upcyclers, and aspiring creative entrepreneurs looking to turn their craft into a sustainable business. 

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with sewing insights, upcycling ideas, and handmade business tips.

Key Takeaways:

• Paige's love for sewing began with her grandmother's influence.
• She emphasises the importance of valuing handmade items.
• Working for Friday Pattern Company allows her to combine her passions.
• Thrifting is a treasure hunt that promotes sustainable fashion.
• Upcycling is a creative outlet for Paige, especially with jackets.
• Launching Podgekins was a passion project with the idea born during lockdown.
• She encourages others to share their creative journeys online.
• Paige believes in charging what you're worth as a maker.
• Future projects include more upcycled items and doll patterns.

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Guest Details: 

Instagram: @paigejoannaa

Youtube: @paigejoannaa

Pinterest: @paigejoanna

Email: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the last show of the year!

01:27 Paige's Sewing Journey

04:35 The Value of Handmade Items

08:09 Working with Friday Pattern Company

13:00 The Importance of Secondhand Shopping

15:36 Thrift Flips and Upcycling Projects

18:15 Exploring Live Shopping Platforms

19:51 Finding Inspiration in Creativity

21:06 Evolving Personal Style

22:32 Launching a Doll Sewing Pattern Business

27:42 Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs

31:04 Upcoming Projects and Market Preparations

32:37 Fun This or That Game

36:00 Outro 

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In this inspiring episode, host Gemma Daly sits down with Sharlene, founder of SO Sew Dressmaking, to dive into her creative journey — from a childhood surrounded by sewing to building a thriving dressmaking business and teaching community classes.

Sharlene talks about how her skills have evolved over the years, the challenges and triumphs of pattern drafting, and the excitement of launching her very own sewing pattern line. 

She also shares her thoughts on developing personal style, the power of a supportive sewing community, and the joy that comes from connecting with others through creative social events.

Throughout the conversation, Sharlene highlights the importance of carving out creative time for yourself, even in a busy life, and reflects on her experiences of growing within the sewing world.

If you love dressmaking, community, and real conversations about creativity, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧🧵✨

Key Takeaways

• Sharlene's passion for sewing began in childhood, influenced by family.
• Teaching sewing classes became a natural progression for Sharlene after studying fashion at University.
• Sharlene's pattern line reflects her unique style and creativity.
• Community engagement is vital in the sewing world.
• Personal style evolves with experience and experimentation.
• Sewing for yourself is essential for maintaining creativity.
• Sharlene's journey highlights the importance of timing and opportunity.
• Inspiration can come from various sources, including fashion history. 

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Guest Details: 

Website: www.sosewdressmaking.com

Instagram: @sosewdressmaking

Pinterest: sosewdressmaking

Youtube: Sharlene Oldroyd

*DISCOUNT CODE for 20% off patterns from So Sew Dressmaking: SEWINGSOCIALPOD (valid from 3rd - 17th December, T's and C's apply)

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to SO Sew Dressmaking

01:55 The Journey of a Passion for Sewing

06:38 Teaching and Community Engagement in Sewing

09:00 The Evolution of Sewing Classes

12:34 Pattern Drafting and Design Process

16:33 Launching a Pattern Line

19:51 Inspiration and Design Process

22:04 From Idea to Finished Product

25:50 Mastering Pattern Grading and Website Setup

28:26 Evolving Personal Style and Wardrobe Choices

31:46 The Importance of Creativity in Sewing

34:16 Understanding Colour Palettes and Fabric Choices

35:59 Building Community Through Stitch and Stretch Events

41:16 Future Plans and Creative Endeavours

48:09 Outro for Sharlene (Discount code)

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Georgie Li, the creative force behind Hey Sew Sister, a thriving online fabric shop loved by sewists around the world. 

Georgie opens up about her inspiring journey, from learning to sew as a child, to leaving behind a career in law, to building a successful, natural fibre focused sewing business.

Listeners will hear Georgie talk candidly about the challenges that shaped her skills, including sewing her own jeans, creating her wedding dress, and navigating the learning curve of garment construction. She also shares how the sewing community on Instagram became a powerful catalyst for her growth and confidence.

Georgie gives an inside look at her design process, revealing how she develops the unique fabrics and patterns that have become Hey Sew Sister’s signature. 

The conversation dives into personal style, the biggest lessons she’s learned as a business owner, and what exciting plans lie ahead for the Hey Sew Sister brand.

If you’re passionate about sewing, sustainability, small business stories, or simply love hearing how makers turn creativity into a career, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways: 

• Georgie's early sewing experiences were influenced by her family.
• Instagram helped Georgie connect with the sewing community.
• Making jeans is one of the most challenging sewing projects that she has undertaken to date.
• Georgie made her own wedding dress.
• She transitioned from a law career to running a fabric shop.
• Sustainability is a key focus for Hey Sew Sister.
• Georgie designs unique fabrics and patterns that reflect her style.
• Planning and work-life balance are important lessons learned in business.
• Georgie's personal style is eclectic and influenced by many things.
• She is excited about future projects, including a custom quilted fabric range. 

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Guest details: 

Website: www.heysewsister.co.uk

Instagram: @heysewsister

                    @heysewgeorgie 

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: Georgie's Sewing Story

06:43 From Law to Fabric: The Birth of Hey Sew Sister

10:54 Evolution of a Business: Five Years of Hey Sew Sister

16:52 Designing with Purpose: Unique Fabrics and Sustainability

21:14 Lessons Learned: Balancing Passion and Business

24:19 Future Aspirations: New Designs and Collaborations

28:31 Thready Set Go 

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In this episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, accomplished sewist and industry advocate Clive Bruder opens up about his powerful journey in the world of sewing and fashion. He talks candidly about navigating a female-dominated industry as a male sewist and the barriers he’s worked to break down along the way.

Clive shares the motivation behind his influential movements We Sew Too and Boys Sew Too, both created to champion diversity, inclusivity, and visibility for underrepresented makers in the sewing community.

He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, design inspirations, and the launch of his brand-new space, Sew Newbo Studios—a vibrant sewing studio dedicated to community connection, skill-building, and creative growth.

Engaging, insightful, and full of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sewing, fashion, and inclusive craft spaces.

Key Takeaways:

• Clive Bruder is the founder of the Boys Sew Too and We Sew Too movements.
• His sewing journey began at a young age with a hand-crank sewing machine.
• Clive faced challenges in the fashion industry due to gender stereotypes.
• We Sew Too aims to create a more inclusive sewing community for LGBTQIA+ and other underrepresented groups.
• Boys Sew Too empowers men to embrace sewing as a valid craft.
• Visibility and representation in the sewing community are crucial for change.
• Clive draws inspiration from various sources, including other designers and everyday life.
• Sew Newbo Studios serves as a creative space for teaching and community building.
• Clive emphasises the importance of supporting one another in the sewing community.
• He believes that sewing should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of gender. 

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Guest details: 

Website: www.wesewtoo.com 

Instagram: @wesewtoo

                  : @boyssewtoo

                  : @sewnewbostudios

Facebook: Sew Newbo Studios

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Clive Bruder and His Journey

00:37 The Early Days of Sewing: A Passion Ignited

02:57 Navigating Gender Norms in Sewing Education

09:27 Challenges and Triumphs in the Fashion Industry

14:26 Creating Inclusive Spaces: The We So Too Movement

19:04 Empowering Men in Sewing: The Boy So Too Movement

23:40 Global Movement in Sewing

26:08 Representation and Inclusivity in Sewing

28:40 Design Inspiration and Personal Style

34:19 Creating a Home Studio and Community

40:24 Teaching and Building a Sewing Community

44:42 Outro 

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🎙️ In this inspiring episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly chats with Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh — the creative duo from Ilkley, West Yorkshire — whose friendship blossomed into a thriving partnership in the world of sewing and quilting.

Jenni and Kay share how their love of fabric and creativity led them to build a supportive sewing community and launch exciting projects that bring people together through craft. 

They also open up about their latest book, Menopause Makes, which uses sewing to spark honest conversations about women’s health and empowerment.

Listeners will hear about their collaboration with Quiltfolk, the heartwarming stories stitched into their quilts, and what’s next for this talented pair in the ever-evolving crafting industry. 

Whether you’re a passionate quilter or new to sewing, this episode is full of inspiration, creativity, and community spirit.

Key Takeaways

• Jenni and Kay met at a tap dancing class, which sparked their friendship.
• They transitioned from friends to business partners through a shared passion for sewing.
• Their business grew organically, focusing on community and creativity.
• Sewing provides a therapeutic outlet, especially during challenging times.
• Their book 'Menopause Makes' addresses women's health and encourages conversations.
• Quilts tell stories and connect people through shared experiences.
• They emphasise the importance of balancing family life with business.
• Their collaboration with Quilt Folk allows them to share global quilting stories.
• They aim to create a welcoming space for discussions about menopause.
• Future projects include workshops and exploring new sewing techniques.

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Guest details:

Instagram: @jenniandkaycreate

Facebook: Jenni and Kay create

Website: www.menopausemakes.com

                 www.quiltfolk.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Sewing Social Podcast

00:19 The Journey of Friendship and Sewing

03:28 From Hobby to Business: The Evolution of Their Work

06:12 Learning the Craft: Personal Sewing Journeys

08:57 Current Projects and Passion for Dressmaking

12:33 Collaboration with Quilt Folk: A Unique Perspective

16:47 The Stories Behind Quilts: Community and Connection

18:32 Exploring Quilting Heritage and Inspirations

20:07 The Birth of 'Menopause Makes' Book

25:38 Breaking the Silence on Menopause

27:52 Creating a Welcoming Space for Conversations

28:58 Future Plans and Exciting Projects

31:22 Fun and Games: This or That?

34:37 Outro - tip on Ko-fi.wav

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Join us this week for an inspiring conversation with Kat Molesworth — master quilter, creative event curator, and passionate maker. 

Kat takes us through her journey from her early career in the creative industry to mastering the art of quilting. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her sewing journey, her work bringing creative communities together through events, and the joy she finds in every stitch. 

Packed with insights, stories, and heartfelt advice, this episode is a must-listen for quilters, makers, and anyone inspired by creativity and community.

Key Takeaways:

• Kat has a diverse background in creative industries.
• She transitioned from various jobs to focus on events for bloggers and creators.
• Community and connection through social media have been pivotal in her journey.
• Running thoughtful events can transform attendees' lives and businesses.
• Kat emphasises the importance of considering all attendees' needs at events.
• She is the youngest master quilter, showcasing her dedication to the craft.
• Her quilting style blends traditional and modern techniques.
• Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts is a significant milestone for her.
• Kat encourages aspiring quilters to have fun and make for loved ones.
• She highlights the undervaluation of handmade crafts and the need for makers to assert their worth.

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Guest details: 

Instagram: @thatkat

Tiktok: superthatkat

Job role: Programming Coordinator for Immediate Live's Craft Portfolio

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kat Molesworth

01:39 Kat's Creative Career Journey

09:27 Event Planning in the Creative Industry

11:47 Kat's Sewing Journey and Quilting Beginnings

13:46 Becoming a Master Quilter

16:16 Quilting Styles and Inspirations

19:04 Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts

23:46 Advice for Aspiring Quilters

26:36 Future Plans and Exciting Projects

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly chats with Rosie, the creative mind behind Sew Eco Fabrics — a beautiful small business championing sustainability in the sewing world. 🌿

Rosie opens up about her journey from retail to running her own eco fabric shop, the highs and hurdles of small business life, and why conscious consumer choices matter more than ever. She also shares practical sewing tips, insights into choosing sustainable fabrics, and an exciting look at what’s next for Sew Eco — from innovative subscription boxes to upcoming market appearances.

It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation about creativity, community, and making a difference — one stitch at a time. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways: 

• Rosie's journey began in retail, leading to a passion for sustainability.
• She started her business to make a difference in the fabric industry.
• Sustainability means offering only eco-friendly fabrics to consumers.
• Small steps towards sustainability are better than none at all.
• Rosie emphasises the importance of reusing materials in sewing.
• She aims to create a magical experience with her seasonal surprise boxes.
• Future plans include more basic fabrics and subscription boxes.
• Rosie enjoys the community aspect of sewing events and pop-ups.

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Guest details: 

Website: www.sewecofabrics.co.uk

Instagram: @sewecofabrics

Pinterest: Sew Eco Fabrics 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Early Conversations

02:23 Rosie's Journey to Sustainable Fabrics

08:06 Challenges of Running a Small Business

11:32 Defining Sustainability in Business

15:19 Practical Sustainable Sewing Tips

17:02 Types of Eco-Friendly Fabrics Offered

19:43 Navigating Pricing and Quality in Fabric Retail

20:19 The Journey of a Self-Taught Seamstress

22:43 Patterns and Fabrics: Preferences and Challenges

25:04 Creating Unique Seasonal Surprise Boxes

28:37 Future Plans: Expanding the Business

30:22 Fun and Games: This or That with Rosie

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In this insightful episode of the Sewing Social podcast, we chat with Laura, also known as The Specky Seamstress, about her journey into sewing, growing her skills, and turning her passion into a thriving business specialising in colourful bias binding.

Laura shares how sewing has supported her mental well-being, how she juggles her creative work with family life, and what exciting projects are on the horizon.

We also dive into the challenges of promoting size inclusivity in the sewing world.

Whether you're a curious beginner or a lifelong maker, this episode offers thoughtful conversation, relatable stories, and plenty of creative energy.

Key Takeaways:

• Laura started sewing in 2018 after leaving a job in London.
• She found a passion for making her own clothes due to the availability of online resources.
• Laura enjoys making dresses with fun prints and simple designs.
• Laura's favourite dress pattern is a hack of the Cashmerette Montrose pattern.
• She started her YouTube channel in 2019 to share her sewing journey.
• The Specky Seamstress business was born out of a desire for pretty bias binding during the pandemic.
• Laura balances her sewing business with family life and emphasises the importance of mental health.
• She is excited about future projects, including a new swimsuit and raincoat.

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Guest details: 

Website: www.thespeckyseamstress.com

Instagram: @thespeckyseamstress

                    @speckylaura

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction to Laura and Her Sewing Journey

08:05 The Evolution of Sewing Skills and Preferences

15:12 The Specky Seamstress Business and Bias Binding

21:53 Balancing Sewing, Family, and Mental Health

31:42 Future Plans and Projects

36:30 Fun This or That Game

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This week, host Gemma Daly chats with the inspiring and down-to-earth Melanie Keane, a passionate sewist whose journey started with patchwork and led to something truly powerful.

Mel opens up about how sewing became more than just a hobby—it became a way to build confidence, create community, and support vulnerable women through her incredible Lighthouse sewing project. 🌟

They also dive into the buzz around the Sew-Fizz-Teacated event (yes, there will be bubbles involved 🍾) and explore the joy that comes from making something with your own two hands.

It’s a heartwarming, motivating, and feel-good conversation that’ll leave you reaching for your fabric stash—and maybe even dreaming up a sewing project of your own. 💬🪡

Tune in, get inspired, and sew along with us!

Key Takeaways: 

• Sewing can boost personal confidence and creativity.
• Community projects can have a profound impact on individuals.
• Sewing offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
• Mel started sewing with patchwork during health challenges.
• The Sew-Fizz-Teacated event raises funds for community projects.
• Sewing projects can help vulnerable women connect and learn.
• Mel's sewing journey began with a basic machine from Hobbycraft.
• Sewing has allowed Mel to embrace bold patterns and colours.
• The Lighthouse project supports vulnerable women through sewing.

Follow me: 

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

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Guest details: 

Instagram: @melaniekeane

                  : @surreysews

Challenge/afternoon tea event: #Sewfizzteacated25

The Lighthouse Community Project: https://www.the-lighthouse.info/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:10 The Journey into Sewing

06:52 Community Projects and Impact

13:01 The Therapeutic Nature of Sewing

13:44 Community Engagement Through Fundraising Events

15:11 The Sewfizzteacated Challenge: A Unique Fundraising Initiative

16:14 Encouraging Creativity and Community Projects

18:02 The Lighthouse: A Hub for Transformation

19:17 Upcoming Events and Future Plans

20:01 Fun and Games: This or That with Mel

24:45 Connecting with Mel: Where to Find Her

25:37 Outro 

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*Please note there is a trigger warning on this episode*

In this powerful episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, we sit down with Debbie Marsden as she shares her moving journey through grief and healing, and how sewing became her lifeline. 

After the devastating loss of her baby, Debbie found solace at her sewing machine, sparking not only personal transformation but also a thriving business built around handmade children's clothing and supporting other mothers through sewing. 

We dive into the emotional depths of her story, the strength found in community, and her inspiring vision for the future, from sustainable fashion for kids to helping more mums turn creativity into confidence and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways:

• Sewing became a therapeutic outlet for Debbie, helping her cope with grief.
• She started her first business, Lolapops, from her kitchen table.
• Debbie emphasises the importance of community and support for mothers.
• Her sewing classes have transformed lives, providing emotional healing.
• Debbie's new venture, Handmade Loop, focuses on sustainability in children's clothing.
• She encourages mothers to prioritise self-care while managing their creative businesses.
• Debbie's journey illustrates the power of creativity in overcoming adversity.
• She aims to help other mothers start their own creative businesses.
• Debbie's story highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to foster connection. 

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

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Guest Details: 

Instagram: @thismummysews

                    @handmadeloop

Website: 

www.thismummysews.com

www.handmadeloop.com

Baby loss charities: 

www.sands.org.uk

www.tommys.org

www.teddyswish.org

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:55 Debbie's Journey into Sewing

02:03 The Impact of Baby Loss on Mental Health

07:17 Finding Purpose Through Sewing

09:53 Building a Creative Business

11:52 The Birth of Lolapops and Its Success

14:31 Transitioning to Teaching Sewing Classes

18:10 Launching the Members Club

20:56 Transformative Stories from Sewing Classes

24:05 The Importance of Community and Support

26:31 The Evolution of Handmade Loop

30:13 Sustainability in Children's Clothing

32:27 Future Plans and Aspirations

35:00 Advice for New Entrepreneurs

38:51 Fun Quickfire Round

42:38 Where to Find Debbie