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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.

Key Takeaways:

• Erica's career transitioned from British Telecom to the Police force, and then onto upholstery
• She emphasises the importance of eco-friendly and natural materials in upholstery
• She developed the Sew & Stow fabric cutting board from a board she had made for herself
• Erica talks about how craft and upholstery can aid mental health and well-being
• Erica explains her approach to teaching upholstery and empowering others

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Guest Details:

Sew and Stow website: https://sewandstow.co.uk

Instagram: @sewandstow.uk

Facebook: byericajane

Discount code for listeners (£10 off a cutting board): Sewingsocialpod

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Resources:

Leanne Treadwell - Bristol Upholstery Collective - https://www.bristolupholsterycollective.co.uk

Renee Hodson - Master Upholsterer - https://www.reneehodson.co.uk

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties

00:10 Erica's Journey into Sewing and Upholstery

02:22 Transition from Police Officer to Upholsterer

05:13 The Impact of Personal Loss and Finding Purpose

08:04 Traditional Upholstery Techniques and Materials

10:56 The Importance of Natural Materials in Upholstery

13:37 Teaching Upholstery and Community Engagement

16:37 Upholstery as a Therapeutic Craft

19:33 Challenges and Standout Projects in Upholstery

25:28 The Art of Upholstery: Techniques and Insights

28:04 Sewing Journey: From Upholstery to Fashion

30:21 Innovating the Cutting Board: The Sew and Stow Story

49:52 Sew and Stow: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Future Plans

56:33 Outro - Kofi

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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 with practical insights that can help sewists better understand their bodies and achieve clothes that truly fit.

Izzy shares what inspired her to start hosting sewing retreats, workshops, and socials, and how these events bring people together to learn, share skills, and enjoy sewing in a welcoming environment.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to develop your sewing skills further, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone interested in making their own wardrobe. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:

• Izzy began her sewing journey in Nepal in the foothills of the Himalayas
• She qualified as a Landscape Architect but now runs her own business as a Pattern Designer and Fitting Expert
• Izzy runs Izzo Sew Studio with her husband Tim
• They run several retreats across the country including The Lake District, The Peak District and Ascot.
• Izzy feels that making your own clothes is a reflection of who you are and repeatedly wearing your handmade wardrobe makes it sustainable.

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details:

Instagram - @izzosewstudio

Website - https://www.izzosewstudio.com

Facebook: Izzo Sew Studio

New Beginner Bespoke Dressmaking Course: https://www.izzosewstudio.com/learn-to-sew

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Izzy and Izzo Sew Studio

00:43 Izzy's Sewing Beginnings

02:37 Career Transition to Sewing

08:26 A Day in the Life of Izzy

10:33 Benefits of Learning to Sew

14:32 Sewing Retreats: A Creative Escape

18:03 Personalised Guidance and Fitting Techniques

22:31 Sewing Social Days: Community and Connection

22:48 Sewing and Sustainability: A Perfect Match

24:17 Exciting Upcoming Events and Workshops

28:56 Fun and Games: This or That?

31:49 Outro

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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.

Key Takeaways:

• Becky has a background in fashion design and studied this at University
• She started her business Pattern Paper Scissors after she'd had her first child
• Becky talks about the importance of sustainable fashion and slow sewing
• She gives some tips for carving out sewing time as a busy parent/busy person
• Designing versatile, unisex, and practical kids' patterns is the heart of her business
• She balances multiple roles: pattern designer/editor, fabric seller, and business owner
• Becky talks about the emotional and educational value of handmade clothing for children

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:

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Guest details:

Instagram: @pattern_paper_scissors

Website: www.patternpaperscissors.co.uk

Facebook: Pattern Paper Scissors

TikTok: @patternpaperscissors

Sponsor details:

Debbie: @thismummysews

Click the link below to find out what your special treat is!

www.thismummysews.com/free-resources

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Becky and Her Sewing Journey
02:09 Transitioning from Fashion Industry to Entrepreneurship
06:59 Sustainability in Fashion and Its Impact on Children
08:43 Designing and Drafting Skills in Fashion
10:47 Creating a Collection for Kids
13:06 The Importance of Comfort in Children's Clothing
19:15 The Value of Handmade Clothing
23:08 Overview of Pattern Paper Scissors
27:07 Exciting Future Plans
28:55 Fun This or That Game
31:21 Outro tip on Kofi

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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, conscious wardrobe building, and mindful making, this conversation offers practical insight and soulful inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

• Tali was taught to sew by her Grandmother at the age of 8
• She enjoys both sewing and knitting
• She sources most of her fabrics from thrift shops or refashions other garments
• She has written a book called Slow Stitch Style which focuses on putting together a capsule wardrobe using reclaimed materials
• Tali is neurodivergent and uses certain practices to ensure that she can enjoy her sewing and get the most out of her time
• Tali feels that slow living and crafting things with your hands is an act of rebellion against a very fast paced world

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details:

Instagram: @slowstitchrebellion

@taliunraveled

Website: https://slowstitchrebellion.substack.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Tali Thomason and Her Sewing Journey

02:06 The Art of Reclaimed Fabrics

03:35 Creating with Thrifted Materials

06:05 The Concept of Slow Stitch Style

08:51 Understanding Reclaimed Materials

10:33 Building a Capsule Wardrobe

12:44 Sustainable Fashion Practices

14:41 Evolving Personal Style

17:26 The Importance of Intentionality in Sewing

17:59 The Journey of Intentionality in Sewing

20:27 Neurodivergent Friendly Creative Practices

23:31 Rebellion Against Hustle Culture

28:34 Sewing as a Grounding Ritual

30:37 The Importance of Community in Sewing

32:49 Exciting Future Plans and Projects

38:22 Outro - tip on Ko-fi.wav

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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 upcycling, why sustainability matters in modern sewing, and how embracing creativity (even when it feels scary) can unlock a whole new level in your making.

Whether you’re just threading your first needle or dreaming of taking your sewing further, this episode is packed with encouragement, practical insights, and a reminder that growth happens when you dare to back yourself. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:

• Caz started crafting from an early age
• She made her own wedding dress and had a break from sewing for the next 25years!
• She had open heart surgery around the period of lockdown
• Applying for and being on the Sewing Bee was a joyous experience for her
• She had a lot of fun with designing her makes for the show, even though she would say she wasn't a creative sewist before this
• Following her win on the show, she has been to several sewing socials and feels they are very important to the sewing community
• Caz believes in sustainability and reducing waste in sewing
• She has spoken at several events, putting herself out of her comfort zone
• Caz currently takes part in a podcast with her friends Dan and Stuart, who are also from the Sewing Bee

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details:

Instagram: @cazsews

Facebook: cazsews

Podcast: Make and Tailor - www.makeandtailor.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
00:19 The Journey Back to Sewing
03:08 Applying for The Sewing Bee
05:40 The Audition Process
08:19 Shutting Down a Business
10:46 Skills and Challenges on The Show
13:28 Creative Growth and Style Evolution
16:11 Winning The Sewing Bee and Final Outfit
18:55 Design Process and Personal Journey
21:12 Creative Inspirations and Iconic Designs
22:59 Building Friendships Through Sewing
24:11 The Importance of Community in Sewing
25:24 Social Events and Connections
26:22 Public Speaking and Overcoming Shyness
28:29 Sustainability in Sewing and Upcycling
31:21 Current Projects and Inspirations
32:14 Encouragement for Aspiring Sewers
33:17 Engaging with Underprivileged Youth
34:40 Fun and Games: This or That
39:35 Outro - tip on Ko-fi

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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 community.

If you’ve ever struggled with fabric stash organisation, forgotten what patterns you own, or wanted a smarter way to plan your sewing projects, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration.

Whether you’re looking for sewing room organisation ideas, fabric inventory tips, or insight into the best sewing apps for sewists, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:

• Yvette started sewing to create hammocks for her pet rats.
• Her initial experiences with sewing in school were negative.
• She found inspiration in the online sewing community.
• The Sew Fruity challenge encourages creativity and community involvement.
• Stash Hub was developed to help manage fabric stashes.
• The app aims to reduce overwhelm in the sewing process.
• Sustainability in sewing is a key focus for Yvette.
• The marketplace feature in Stash Hub allows for easy destashing.
• Yvette enjoys engaging with the sewing community through Stash Chats.

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details:

Instagram: @stash_hub

: @blossomsandwich

Website: www.stashhubapp.com

You can download the Stash Hub app on the App Store or Play Store and use the code below to get the first month for free:

Discount code: TSSP

Chapters

00:00 Yvette's Sewing Journey Begins

00:46 From Pet Hammocks to Dressmaking

05:16 Self-Taught Sewing and Community Influence

10:22 The Importance of Community in Sewing

11:21 Sew Fruity Challenge and Community Engagement

15:30 The Birth of Stash Hub

21:05 Day-to-Day Operations and Team Dynamics

22:20 Addressing Common Stash Problems

24:35 Mindfulness and Sustainable Sewing

27:09 Marketplace and Destashing Features

28:14 Insights from Stash Chats

30:08 Future Developments for Stash Hub

32:34 Community Engagement and Events

34:31 Fun and Games: This or That?

39:03 Where to Find Yvette and Stash Hub

41:33 Stash hub discount code

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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 challenges of balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and self-belief.

She reflects on how appearing on The Great British Sewing Bee helped her reconnect with her passion for sewing, rebuild confidence, and find a supportive community of like-minded makers.

Her story highlights the importance of embracing change, especially at a time when many people are rethinking their careers amid rapid technological shifts.

The conversation also explores Nicole’s current creative projects, with a strong focus on upcycling and sustainable fashion. She shares how she moved from traditional dressmaking to charity shopping, transforming pre-loved garments that might otherwise end up in landfill.

Through her work, Nicole encourages others to see new potential in their wardrobes, rethink fast fashion, and adopt more mindful consumption habits.

Key Takeaways:

• Nicole loved fashion and clothing from an early age
• She grew up in Trinidad and Tobago, then studied in the USA before making her way to London
• She believes that your own self belief should be "bullet proof"
• She's done several career pivots in her life
• Being on the Great British Sewing Bee gave her renewed confidence in herself
• She now loves to work with charities as well as focusing on thrifting and upcycling

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details:

Instagram: @nicole_akong

Youtube: nicole_akong

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setup

00:10 Nicole's Early Sewing Journey

04:59 Transitioning from Corporate to Creative

10:10 Starting a Jewelry Business

16:06 The Impact of the Sewing Bee

20:57 Building a Community and Brand

27:19 Embracing Video Content Creation

30:22 Navigating Career Pivots and Family Dynamics

41:27 The Unique Experience of The Sewing Bee

48:24 The Journey of Upcycling and Refashioning

56:56 The Joy of Rescuing Fashion

57:50 Sustainable Fashion Week: A Community Effort

01:00:34 Creating a Runway Collection from Discarded Materials

01:03:13 Future Aspirations: Charity Partnerships and TV Dreams

01:05:54 Inspiration Over Products: A New Business Philosophy

01:10:47 The Power of Transformation in Fashion

01:19:57 Thready Set Go

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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 demands of shop life with her own personal sewing practice, and why sustainability, inclusivity, and meaningful relationships with customers and suppliers matter so deeply to her.

This episode is a thoughtful look at sustainable sewing, independent business, and the power of creating welcoming spaces for sewists of all backgrounds.

Key Takeaways:

• Bevan's journey into sewing began with a family heirloom sewing machine.
• The name Bawn reflects both Irish heritage and a commitment to sustainability.
• Community support has been crucial for the success of Bawn Textiles.
• Sewing can be a meditative practice that calms the mind.
• Sustainability is a core value for Bawn Textiles, influencing fabric choices.
• Building relationships with suppliers is essential for sourcing quality fabrics.
• The shop aims to create an inclusive environment for all sewists.
• Vulnerability in running a small business can lead to unique challenges.
• Future plans include expanding shop hours and improving the shopping experience.

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:

thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

Affiliate Links:

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

Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details:

Website: https://bawntextiles.com/

Instagram: @bawntextiles

Facebook: @bawntextiles

Chapters:

00:00 Introducing Bevan: The Journey of Bawn Textiles
04:25 The Meaning Behind 'Bawn': A Name with History
09:43 Sewing Stories: Bevan's Personal Journey
12:11 Current Projects: Balancing Work and Passion
12:54 The Journey of Sewing and Fabric Creation
14:18 Path to Textile Conservation: A Personal Story
18:33 Balancing Conservation Work and Business
20:21 The Birth of Bawn: From Idea to Online Store
27:21 Building Community Through a Fabric Shop
31:31 The Joys and Challenges of Running a Physical Shop
38:14 Sourcing Fabrics: Ethics and Choices
45:36 The Roots of Sustainability in Business
51:09 Balancing Sustainability with Business Practicalities
57:13 The Role of Home Sewists in Reducing Waste
01:04:02 Future Plans and Business Growth
01:08:32 Fun and Games: This or That?
01:12:48 Outro