Shows
Sew Mindful Podcast080: What are powernet and power mesh fabrics?If like me you have found the terms powernet, power mesh and stretch mesh confusing then this episode for you.After finally finishing my Willowdale bra this week I thought it would be fun to talk about these fabrics that create the foundations of our lingerie and swimwear but can be used for many more applications.So this week I wanted to share my thoughts on what the definitions are for each of these fabrics, how they are made that makes them so great and lots of ideas of ways in which you can use...2024-02-1119 min
Sew Mindful Podcast079: How to Sharpen Fabric ScissorsFabric 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 why you need to think about sharpening your fabric scissors. If you have ever wondered which fabrics are guilty of dulling your...2024-02-0316 min
Sew Mindful Podcast078: Getting to know Maison FauveFREE 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 trying.Emilie has an unusual career path into creating Maison Fauve which she shares in our chat. Her passion for all things fashion is contagious and...2024-01-2733 min
Sew Mindful Podcast077: How body image can impact your dressmakingWhen 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 feeling super positive yet, and the impact it can have on your creativity when you do. I'm delighted to be joined by...2024-01-2042 min
Sew Mindful Podcast076: Sewing Silky Festive OutfitsIt'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 might have put you off. So when I was last talking to Pamela Leggett she mentioned...2023-12-0943 min
Sew Mindful Podcast075: Pyjama Party - 5 Pyjama Patterns Tried, Tested & ReviewedHey there my lovely! 🧵✨ Welcome to this Pyjama Party episode where we're all about getting comfy in style. Mystery of the Perfect Pyjama PatternI'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 wondered what fabric works best for those dreamy night-time outfits? I'm also sharing my tips on this topic, from breathable blends...2023-12-0219 min
Sew Mindful Podcast074: Sewing B: Small businesses enriching local communitiesIn 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 emphasizes the importance of supporting local and small businesses.So I wanted to support one of my local small businesses with some engaging interviews and my reflections on t...2023-11-2524 min
Sew Mindful Podcast073: The Point of the Needle with Barbara BurmanHave 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 to sewing. This environment, combined with her academic interests, led her to write her book which covers the following themes:Oral Histories: the importance of o...2023-11-1843 min
Sew Mindful Podcast072: Stitch love into every gift: Ideas and plannerThank 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 gifts, the reasons it's okay not to, and how to navigate gift-making in a way that's enjoyable and fulfilling.This episode is packed with...2023-11-1118 min
Sew Mindful Podcast071: Button loops & feminine frills: the Lily Button DressWant 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 sure to listen out for that. I wasn't sure about the button loops and...2023-11-0416 min
Sew Mindful Podcast070: Mastering Buttonholes in Knit Fabrics with Melanie KeaneTerrified 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 also shares her recent experience at the Knitting and Stitching show. Get ready to learn all about Melanie's approach to stabilizing fabric and selecting the r...2023-10-2826 min
Sew Mindful Podcast069: Meet Couture Dressmaker Mette BaillieI'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 her inspiring story.During our conversation, Mette and I delve into her ethos around clothes and fit. She firmly believes that our clothes should fit us...2023-10-2127 min
Sew Mindful Podcast068: So who is French Terry anyway?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 where to source it. Moving beyond just understanding the fabric, I will also give you practical sewing advice. From choosing the right needle, understanding how to stabilize the f...2023-10-1418 min
Sew Mindful Podcast067: Expert Fitting Tips with Pamela Leggett (Pt 2)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 has a secret resource that can help. She unravels her tricks in dealing with different fabrics and how they impact fit. Get a g...2023-10-0718 min
Sew Mindful Podcast066: Expert Fitting Tips with Pamela Leggett (Pt 1)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 top tips for achieving the perfect garment fit.We talk about Pamela's take on designing patterns keeping in mind a realistic f...2023-09-3037 min
Sew Mindful Podcast065: Hemming stretchy fabrics - my top tipsEver 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 choose from, I'll take you through the nitty-gritty of creating consistently great looking hems.I will be talking about a range of techniques that I have used and others that you...2023-09-1624 min
Sew Mindful Podcast064: Jumper Joy: Sewing Autumn's Essential LayersIt'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 enough, I've put together a unique list of 20 pattern suggestions to fuel your creativity!If you'd like tips on fabric recommendations and my own experiences...2023-09-0226 min
Sew Mindful Podcast063: Unravelling Bamboo Fabric: Surprising Facts and BenefitsCan 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 alternatives for your next sewing project.I will also shine a spotlight on the unique properties and uses of bamboo viscose fabric, from breathability to its antibacterial prowess. Find out why it's the star...2023-08-1923 min