The Sewing Social

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly is joined by Alice O’Connell, founder of Learn to Knit, to chat about creativity, career changes and the unexpected ways a hobby can shape your life.

With over 20 years’ experience teaching knitting, Alice shares how she went from working as an actress to building a business around her love of making. We talk about the calming benefits of knitting, the confidence that comes from learning something new, and why it’s so important to let yourself be a beginner and embrac...

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly chats with Mila Moiso, co-founder and co-owner of Tauko Magazine, the international sewing magazine celebrating independent designers, creative sewing and the joy of making your own clothes.

Mila shares her journey from working in the sustainable fashion industry to launching Tauko Magazine with her childhood friend Kaisa Rissanen. Having spent over a decade running their own fashion label, they discovered a new way to support creativity and independent designers by creating a sewing publication that brings together talented makers...

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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...

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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 pa...

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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.

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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 ev...

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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...

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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...

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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...

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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 h...

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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 s...

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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, t...

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Sarah Laws, founder of My Handmade Wardrobe Patterns, pattern designer, sewing educator and passionate advocate for helping people create clothes they truly love to wear.

Sarah takes us back to where it all began, sharing how learning to sew as a child sparked a lifelong passion for dressmaking and ultimately led her to design sewing patterns that empower makers of all abilities. 

We chat about the journey from hobby to career, the realities of running a creative business, and t...

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In this episode, Amy Scarr (also known as Almond Rock Sews on Instagram) shares her inspiring journey into garment sewing, from discovering a love of making her own clothes to becoming a passionate advocate for "Big Four" sewing patterns and creative dressmaking.

Amy explains why she champions brands like Simplicity, McCall's, and Butterick, she busts some of the common myths around using commercial sewing patterns, and shares practical tips to help sewists build confidence and achieve a better fit.

We also explore how sewing has become an important outlet...

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In this episode, Luke-Matthew Iveson, winner of The Great British Sewing Bee, shares his inspiring journey from learning to sew with his grandmother as a child to becoming one of the UK's best-known sewing personalities and content creators.

Luke reflects on his experience of winning The Great British Sewing Bee, how the show transformed his life, and the opportunities that followed. 

We discuss the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, the positive impact creativity can have on mental wellbeing, and how finding a supportive sewing community helped s...

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In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley shares how she discovered sewing during a challenging period in her life and how it grew from a practical skill into a powerful source of creativity, confidence, and wellbeing. 

From teaching herself to sew, to building a colourful handmade wardrobe, Claire reflects on the lessons, challenges, and joys of her sewing journey.

We explore the mental health benefits of sewing, including how creative hobbies can boost self-efficacy, reduce stress, and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Claire also shares her passion for s...

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In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley explores the fascinating connection between sewing and mental wellbeing, uncovering the psychology behind why we sew and what keeps us coming back to our machines. 

From motivation and creativity to identity, self-expression, and emotional attachment, to handmade clothes, we delve into the deeper role sewing plays in our lives.

We also discuss common challenges that can affect your sew-jo, including stress, anxiety, burnout, social media comparison, perfectionism, and major life transitions. 

Claire shares practical insights into how understanding the psychology of se...

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Claire Ashley to explore ADHD, how it really presents in adulthood, and why sewing can become a powerful tool for self-regulation.

We discuss the core symptoms of ADHD, why so many women are misdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life, and the link between ADHD, anxiety and chronic overwhelm.

This is an honest, practical conversation about neurodiversity, creativity and building a healthier relationship with your sewing practice.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, struggled to finish projects, or found that sewi...

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In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley explores anxiety - what it is, why it happens, and how it affects the body as well as the mind. 

Drawing on both her medical expertise and lived experience, she explains the physiological response behind anxiety symptoms, from racing thoughts to a heightened stress response.

We talk about practical strategies for managing anxiety in everyday life, and how creative hobbies like sewing can play a powerful role in supporting mental health.

 From regulating the nervous system to creating moments of focus an...

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Claire Ashley, (a GP and passionate sewist) for an honest and informative conversation about burnout, how to recognise the symptoms, and what recovery can really look like.

Claire shares her personal experience of burnout alongside her medical perspective, explaining the science behind chronic stress and how it impacts both our physical and mental health. 

We talk about the early warning signs that are often missed, why burnout is more than just “feeling tired,” and how high-achieving, caring professions can be particularly vulnera...

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In this episode, Lauren Guthrie shares the story behind her journey from working as a physiotherapist to founding Guthrie & Ghani, and how a love of sewing slowly grew into something much bigger than she ever expected.

We talk about her experience on The Great British Sewing Bee and how that moment shaped the direction of her career, as well as the realities of building and evolving a fabric shop in an ever-changing industry.

Lauren reflects on the growth of the sewing community over the years, what it really takes...

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In this episode, Lisa Wagner shares her remarkable journey from learning to sew alongside her mother and grandmother in Australia to becoming a couture dressmaker, pattern drafting educator, and founder of Draft.ed.

We explore the value of skills passed down through generations, why fit is about so much more than measurements, and how learning to draft your own patterns can transform your confidence as a sewist. 

Lisa also shares insights from decades spent designing bespoke garments and explains how her latest project, Draft.ed, is making personalised sewing b...

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This week, Amy and Theresa from Matchy Matchy Sewing Club share their journey from passionate sewists to successful sewing pattern designers, and how they’ve built a brand centred around creativity, sustainability, and approachable garment sewing. 

In this episode, we talk about designing beginner-friendly sewing patterns, embracing experimentation, and their “scrap theory” approach to reducing waste and rethinking fabric offcuts. 

We also discuss the evolution of modern sewing culture, personal style, and their exciting plans for a new creative retail space in California.

Key takeaway...

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In this episode, Lucy from Sew Essential shares her journey from passionate home sewist to running one of the UK’s best-known sewing businesses. 

We talk about confidence, creativity, and how sewing can quietly shape the way we see ourselves. 

Lucy reflects on the evolution of the sewing community, the pressure of perfection online, and why experimentation and “getting it wrong” are such important parts of the creative process. 

A thoughtful conversation about sewing, identity, community, and the deeper value of making things by hand.

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This week, Rebekah, also known as Sewno65 on Instagram, shares her journey from self-taught sewist to running her successful memory keepsake business, The Gathered Seam. 

In this episode, we talk about her creative process, balancing sewing with family life, and the powerful role craft can play in navigating grief and personal growth. 

A thoughtful conversation about sewing, storytelling, and the meaning behind what we make.

Key Takeaways:

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This week, Sally, now known as Made by Sally on Instagram (and previously Secret Life of a Seamstress), shares her inspiring journey from early childhood creativity to confidently showing up on camera. 

She opens up about overcoming insecurities, building self-belief through sewing, and learning to truly understand fabrics. 

We also dive into how she curates a wardrobe that fits her real lifestyle — blending creativity with practicality. 

Honest, relatable, and full of insight, this episode is all about growing in confidence while staying creatively inspired.

...

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In this episode, Riddz POV shares his journey from self-taught fashion enthusiast to emerging designer, exploring how customisation and upcycling became the foundation for creating his own clothes. 

He talks about the realities of teaching yourself to sew, developing your style, and turning creativity into something more purposeful.

We dive into the importance of sustainable fashion, from sourcing the right fabrics to reworking existing pieces, as well as the challenges that come with creative burnout and how to move through it. 

Riddz also shares practical sewing tips, in...

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Kit Giroux shares their journey from passionate sewing enthusiast to semi-finalist on The Great British Sewing Bee, offering an honest look at what it takes to grow your skills and step into the spotlight. 

They talk us through their creative process from initial ideas to finished garments and how sewing has become a powerful form of self-expression.

In this episode, Kit also dives into their thoughts on fast fashion and the importance of making more conscious, sustainable choices when it comes to what we wear. 

They reflect on...

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This week on the show, I'm speaking to Liz from the small business Flying Bobbins. 

Liz shares her inspiring journey from working in the fashion industry to building Flying Bobbins into a thriving sewing business. 

In this episode, she opens up about the realities of transitioning from corporate fashion to running a creative small business, and what it really takes to turn a passion for sewing into a sustainable brand.

She explores the importance of community in the sewing world, how connection and support can fuel creativity, an...

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*Trigger warning - Please note that this episode discusses baby loss, listen at your own discretion and please skip ahead if you need to.

In this episode, Jenny Fazackerley of "Jenny Stitches" shares her journey from accountant to successful fabric shop owner and sewing studio founder in Cumbria. 

She talks about starting a sewing business, navigating the challenges of creative entrepreneurship, and building a thriving sewing community. 

Tune in for practical tips, small business insights, and plenty of sewing inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode, Erica shares her inspiring journey from police officer to skilled traditional upholsterer, transforming her career through creativity and craftsmanship. 

She highlights her commitment to sustainable upholstery, using eco-friendly materials and preserving time-honoured techniques. 

She also introduces the innovative Sew & Stow cutting board, designed to make fabric cutting easier, more efficient, and more precise for makers of all levels.

Discover how Erica is building a purpose-driven craft business, championing sustainable sewing practices, and empowering others through hands-on upholstery courses and creative education.

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In this episode, Izzy shares her inspiring journey from a career in landscape architecture to launching her own sewing business, Izzo Sew Studio. 

She talks about how her passion for sewing grew into a platform that helps others build confidence in making and fitting their own clothes. 

Izzy discusses the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, a more sustainable approach to fashion, and a way to connect with a supportive creative community.

We also dive into her approach to garment fitting and pattern drafting, along wi...

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In this episode, Becky from Pattern, Paper, Scissors, shares her journey from fashion designer to founder of a creative sewing brand designing patterns for children and families. 

Becky also sells fabrics, kits and designs sewing labels in her online shop.

We talk about the realities of balancing motherhood and business, the power of creativity, her passion for sustainable fashion, and why making time for the things you love truly matters.

She also gives us an insight into her pattern designing work for Prima Magazine. 

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In this episode, Tali Thomason shares her journey into sustainable sewing and the art of building a slow fashion wardrobe from reclaimed materials. 

She explores the inspiration behind her book "Slow Stitch Style" and explains how intentional, ritual-based sewing can transform the way we relate to our clothes.

From reclaiming fabrics to embracing a neurodivergent-friendly creative practice, Tali reveals how slow stitching becomes more than a craft — it’s a grounding act of rebellion against fast fashion and hustle culture. 

If you’re interested in sustainable living, consciou...

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Join us for an inspiring and honest conversation with Caz, winner of Season 11 of The Great British Sewing Bee, as she unpicks the story behind her success. 

From childhood crafting to stepping into the sewing room spotlight, Caz shares the journey that shaped her skills and her self-belief.

We dive into what it really felt like to compete on national television, the mindset shifts that helped her overcome self-doubt, and how the experience transformed both her confidence and her craft. 

Caz also opens up about her love of...

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly sits down with Yvette – also known as Blossom Sandwich on Instagram – co-creator of Stash Hub, the must-have sewing organiser app for managing your fabric stash and projects.

Yvette shares her refreshingly unconventional journey into sewing, which began with stitching tiny hammocks for her pet rats. 

After discouraging experiences with sewing at school almost put her off for good, she rediscovered the craft on her own terms – becoming a passionate self-taught sewist and an active voice in the online sewing communi...

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In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Nicole Akong, a talented sewer, maker, and content creator, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, career change, and sustainable fashion. 

Nicole shares her sewing journey from growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, where she first fell in love with making at her mother’s sewing machine, to building a corporate career in London before bravely pivoting towards a more creative life.

Nicole opens up about the realities of working in the fashion industry, including the cha...

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In this episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Bevan O'Daly, founder of Bawn Textiles, a sustainable fabric shop based in Glasgow, Scotland. 

Bevan shares her personal journey into sewing, the story behind the name Bawn Textiles, and how community has become the heart of her business.

The conversation explores the realities of running a small independent fabric shop, from sourcing ethical and sustainable fabrics to navigating the challenges of retail in the modern textile industry. 

Bevan also talks about balancing the de...

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In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Harriet Cleary, founder of Sew Me Sunshine, the much-loved fabric and haberdashery store based in West London. 

Harriet opens up about her inspiring journey into sewing, from learning the craft to making the bold career leap from nursing to running a creative small business.

The conversation explores the power of community in the sewing and dressmaking world, as well as the realities of building a fabric business from the ground up. 

Harriet shares be...

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Jen Legg, a much-loved, colourful sewist and well-known voice in the sewing community. 

Jen shares her sewing journey, her unmistakable love of sewing and wearing jumpsuits, and how she makes projects that truly work for her lifestyle.

The conversation explores the emotional connection we build with our handmade wardrobes, embracing colour and personal style, and sewing with joint pain and arthritis—including the practical adaptations Jen uses to keep making comfortably.

They also cha...