The Straight Stitch: A Podcast About Sewing and Other Fiber Arts

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Years ago, people sewed because they had to—either to have clothing to wear, to save money, or both. Now that sewing is no longer a necessity, it has blossomed into a billion-dollar industry providing nearly unlimited potential for creativity. Sewists can quilt, embroider by machine, make bags, sew custom clothing, and take advantage of social media to create new income streams. Why do YOU sew? 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

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Today's guest is Cheryl Espinosa, owner of the Etsy store Aunt Honey's Estate. Cheryl talks about how her love of vintage sewing patterns led to the creation of her business. Not only does she sell vintage patterns, she sews from them as well. For Cheryl, the appeal of vintage patterns lies in the details—the design lines and fine finishing techniques that are absent from many of our modern designs. She also shares some of her tips for incorporating vintage patterns into your own sewing practice. 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

My guest today is Ryliss Bod, owner and founder of the Sewing and Design School in Tacoma, Washington. Ryliss considers herself one of the luckiest people in the world. She was raised in a family where learning new skills—no matter your age—was valued and encouraged. She channeled her love of sewing into a career as part of the faculty of Bates Technical College. In 2012, she opened the Sewing and Design School and has inspired students to advance their skills through a variety of classes for all skill levels. In addition to the ongoing slate of classes, Ryliss also brings in instructors such as Kenneth D. King for special workshops throughout the year on pattern drafting and moulage making. I’ve taken a class from Ryliss and am registered for two more this fall. Come along and listen as I visit with Ryliss!

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

Explore the intersection of sustainable fashion and artistic creativity with Kathleen McVeigh, a visionary who transforms vintage textiles into stunning contemporary clothing pieces. Kat, together with her husband Dale Donaldson, is the author of the new C&T Publishing release entitled Reclaimed Quilts, Sew Modern Clothing & Accessories from Vintage Textiles. In this episode, Kat shares her passion for giving new life to vintage textiles. From sourcing unique fabrics to the intricate process of designing and crafting each garment, hear about her philosophy on design and the ethics of repurposing vintage textiles. Gain insights into the challenges and rewards of sustainable fashion entrepreneurship, and explore the environmental and cultural impact of her work.

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

Today’s episode is a fascinating conversation with Anne Graham, a seasoned seamstress specializing in repairing clothing for Patagonia. Her work for Patagonia is a fulfilling second career that has taught her much about sewing, people, and sustainability. 

Anne discusses the challenges and joys of extending the lifespan of outdoor apparel, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste. Her insights into the techniques she employs, such as darning, patching, and innovative stitching methods, provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in Patagonia's mission to reduce its environmental footprint. Her passion for her work and dedication to quality craftsmanship offer a refreshing perspective on how small actions can lead to significant changes. 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

As a knitter, I was enchanted by the process of making knitted fabric—so much so that I often took a long time to complete a project. I would get sidetracked exploring different techniques. As a sewist, I’m exactly the opposite. Thrilled by the prospect of whipping out a piece of clothing in an afternoon, I am more about the product than the process. What’s your maker personality type? Are you a process person, a product person, or a combination of the two? How can you shift your focus in one direction or the other? Let’s talk about it. 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

Bad habits can get in the way of pleasurable sewing and lead to less-than-perfect results or even damage to our machines. In this episode, we’ll talk about the bad sewing habits that we should strive to remove from our sewing practice, such as sewing over pins, not changing the needle regularly, and more. What are the bad sewing habits that you’d like to eliminate?

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

Singer is, arguably, the most recognized brand in the world of sewing. In today’s episode, we look at the man who bore that name—Isaac Merritt Singer—and how he came to be such an influence in the development of the sewing machine that we know today. Did you know that he fathered some two dozen children? Or that his first love wasn’t invention, but acting? Listen and learn more!

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

We sometimes forget that leather is a textile, and a wonderful material with which to create beautiful and functional items. Today's guest, Lisa Sorrell, of Sorrell Custom Boots in Guthrie, Oklahoma, has taken leatherwork to the next level with her designs. Lisa began making boots in 1996, custom fit and handcrafted for each client. Lisa’s work has been featured in several books, numerous magazines, and the PBS series “Craft in America.” She is the recipient of numerous awards and the author of the book, "The Art of Leather Inlay and Overlay," published in 2015.  In this episode, Lisa talks about her journey to becoming a custom bookmaker and what needs to be done to save and pass on these specialized skills to future generations. 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]

Send us feedback about this episode!

Today's guest, JoJo Beazel, saw the opportunity for a new business during the pandemic and took it. What started as a fascination with sewing machines in general morphed into a love of industrial sewing machines, and from there, into a thriving business refurbishing these old workhorses.  Seams Perfect Industrial and Vintage Sewing Machines in Fresno, CA, specializes in the restoration of industrial and commercial sewing machines. JoJo has a deep and abiding appreciation for these machines for their functionality as well as their artistic design. Join me for a conversation with JoJo about some of the machines that have graced the Seams Perfect workbench and how they have been restored to a useful life. 

Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.com
My website: www.janetszabo.com
See my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blog
E-mail me!  [email protected]