Sew Mindful Podcast

Fabric scissor and shears are such an important tool when it comes to sewing and dressmaking. There is a lot of tips and advice out there about how to care for and sharpen them and so I wanted to explore with you who says what and my thoughts on the pros and cons of each recommendation.

In this episode I'll share with you the difference between all-purpose scissors and fabric scissors and shears. I'll explain wh...

FREE Pattern and chance to win Prizes with this week's guest from Maison Fauve (see link below)

I was delighted to finally get chance to talk with the passionate Emilie Faurie of the French pattern and fabric brand, Maison Fauve recently. I've been following her wonderful creations on Instagram and got to try out the beautiful Cicadella Blouse pattern which has some very stylish details that I really enjoyed tryi...

When we are making clothes for ourselves, the process of creating and fitting those clothes is intimately tied to our bodies. And if there is internal conflict or self-doubt associated with our body then that can impact our enjoyment and success in creating garments that we love.

In this week's episode I wanted to shed light on the importance of fostering a healthy body image, how to go about it if you aren't fe...

It's coming up to the festive season and if you are like me, you might be thinking about sewing with silky festive fabrics. It's also a time when we might want to create outfits with particular design features that give them more of a dressy feel.

I wanted to get some tips for you on how to sew these silky fabrics as they can be tricky to handle and if you've had experience trying to work with them, that mig...

Hey there my lovely! 🧵✨ Welcome to this Pyjama Party episode where we're all about getting comfy in style.
 
Mystery of the Perfect Pyjama Pattern
I've been on a mission to find patterns that are not just cozy but also show off your style! From relaxed fits to chic designs, I've explored a few that might just tickle your fancy. But which ones? Ah, you'll have to tune in to find out!

Ever w...

In this heartwarming episode I wanted to share inspiring stories from the lovely ladies at my local sewing shop which demonstrate the profound impact that sewing communities have on our well-being. 
None of this would be possible for them without the positive influence of small business owner Elaine Bell of Sewing B (Belle) in Stapleford near Nottingham.
It's also the time of year for Small Business Saturday, which emp...

Have you ever considered the impact of your sewing stories? In this episode I'm delighted to be joined by Barbara Burman, the author of "The Point of the Needle, Why Sewing Matters." Barbara is a historian with a deep interest in material culture, particularly in textiles and dress. 

In our chat Barbara shares her upbringing in a country vicarage, surrounded by a culture of making things, from cabinet making...

Thank you so much for joining me for this episode of the Sew Mindful podcast where I delve into the delightful yet sometimes daunting world of making handmade gifts.

As we approach the festive season, a time renowned for gift-giving, I explore the intricate balance between the joy of creating personalized presents and the potential stress it can bring. This episode is a heartfelt discussion about why we choose to make gif...

Want ideas for a lovely party dress? Well I was delighted to get to try this pattern for the Lily Button Dress by Made Label and in this episode I will share my thoughts on the pattern, the techniques involved and my lessons from this make.

The lovely SJ of Made Label also has generously popped by to leave a quick message about what she has been up to. And she's given you a SPECIAL OFFER CODE FOR 30% DISCOUNT so be su...

Terrified of sewing buttonholes in knit fabrics? If the mere thought sends shivers down your spine, fear no more! My special guest and sewing friend, Melanie Keane, recently  mastered this technique, and has joined me to guide you through this sometimes daunting task.

Mel is no stranger to the podcast, sharing how she started sewing in her fifties in episode 50. She now runs an inspiring refugee sewing project and she als...

I'm delighted to be joined in this episode by the incredibly talented Mette Baillie, a couture dressmaker with a wealth of experience that spans a lifetime.

Mette's journey into the world of couture dressmaking began at the age of 9 when she crafted her very first outfit. That initial spark ignited a lifelong passion that eventually led her to become an award-winning couturier. I can't wait for you to hear h...

Have you been looking for a fabric that helps you transition effortlessly between seasons?

French terry, a unique, stretch fabric, often remains the unsung hero of the fashion world. 

We explore its various versions, from organic cotton to bamboo, and even luxury fibres like Cashmere and Merino wool. You'll discover why French terry is ideal for layering, how it transcends its use beyond loungewear, and whe...

I'm delighted to welcome you back to join me for the second part of my chat with  Pamela Legget, an influential sewing teacher since the '80s. If you missed the SPECIAL OFFER last week then listen out for that in this episode. 

This episode will be a treasure trove of knowledge as Pamela divulges her expert tips and strategies for solo fitting and the fascinating Palmer Pletsch tissue fitting method. She also ha...

Get ready for a delightful and enlightening chat with the one and only Pamela Legget, the sewing legend herself. We had so much to talk about that I've split our chat into two parts so you'll get a cheeky bonus episode next week - YAY!

LISTEN OUT FOR HER SPECIAL OFFER 

In part 1 we'll be pulling back the curtain on Pamela's unique approach to pattern design, her innovative sewing tools, and her...

Ever wondered how to hem stretchy fabrics without experiencing uneven hems, puckering, stretching, thread breakages, and skipped stitches? I've got the inside scoop for you. This episode is jam-packed with techniques, tools, and tricks that I've learned from my personal sewing journey - insights I wish I had when I started! From determining what properties your hems need to have and options for different techniques to cho...

It's that transitional season time and if you are like me you might be reaching for those longer sleeves or comfortable layers to keep you warm.

In this episode I'm sharing some of my jumper pattern successes and also my jumper pattern fails. I'll give you all the details from fabric requirements, size ranges, and my personal insights on modifying these patterns for the perfect fit. And if that isn't e...

Can bamboo fabric be the real deal - an environment-friendly, versatile option for clothing? Are we ignoring a sustainable solution that might revolutionize the fashion industry? Join me as I attempt to unravel the facts surrounding bamboo fabric, discussing its properties, misconceptions, and sustainability. I share details of how it's cultivated and processed, and why you might choose bamboo fabric over the other alternative...

Ever bought more fabric than you can sew? Join me as Yvette Todd of Stash Hub shares an amazing solution to this common problem of managing your fabric stash! She talks about her own sewing ventures, her sewfruity23 Challenge and the wonderful features of the Stash Hub app that she and her husband, Doug, have developed. Plus,she has a special treat just foryuuo!

If you have been struggling with stacks of fabric, patterns a...

Get ready to breathe new life into your wardrobe! Ever looked at your clothes and wished they could be as unique and stylish as you are? Hold onto that thought, as Elise Sinclair of Elise's Sewing Studio is here to help you revamp existing garments into fresh, trendy pieces. From shortening trousers and sleeves to swapping hardware, and more, we discuss the ins and outs of refashioning clothing. Elise even lets us in on her ow...