The Sewing Social

• Sewing for Confidence and Community with Melanie Keane

  Send us a textThis week, host Gemma Daly chats with the inspiring and down-to-earth Melanie Keane, a passionate sewist whose journey started with patchwork and led to something truly powerful.Mel opens up about how sewing became more than just a hobby—it became a way to build confidence, create community, and support vulnerable women through her incredible Lighthouse sewing project. 🌟They also dive into the buzz around the Sew-Fizz-Teacated event (yes, there will be bubbles involved 🍾) and explore the joy that comes from making something with your own two hands.It’s a heartwarming, motivating, and feel-good conversation that’ll leave you reaching for your fabric stash—and maybe even dreaming up a sewing project of your own. 💬🪡Tune in, get inspired, and sew along with us!Key Takeaways: Sewing can boost personal confidence and creativity.Community projects can have a profound impact on individuals.Sewing offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment.Mel started sewing with patchwork during health challenges.The Sew-Fizz-Teacated event raises funds for community projects.Sewing projects can help vulnerable women connect and learn.Mel's sewing journey began with a basic machine from Hobbycraft.Sewing has allowed Mel to embrace bold patterns and colours.The Lighthouse project supports vulnerable women through sewing.Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:[email protected] details: Instagram: @melaniekeane                  : @surreysewsChallenge/afternoon tea event: #Sewfizzteacated25The Lighthouse Community Project: https://www.the-lighthouse.info/Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background00:10 The Journey into Sewing06:52 Community Projects and Impact13:01 The Therapeutic Nature of Sewing13:44 Community Engagement Through Fundraising Events15:11 The Sewfizzteacated Challenge: A Unique Fundraising Initiative16:14 Encouraging Creativity and Community Projects18:02 The Lighthouse: A Hub for Transformation19:17 Upcoming Events and Future Plans20:01 Fun and Games: This or That with Mel24:45 Connecting with Mel: Where to Find Her25:37 Outro 

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• "I Sewed Myself Happy" with Debbie from This Mummy Sews

  Send us a text*Please note there is a trigger warning on this episode*In this powerful episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, we sit down with Debbie Marsden as she shares her moving journey through grief and healing, and how sewing became her lifeline. After the devastating loss of her baby, Debbie found solace at her sewing machine, sparking not only personal transformation but also a thriving business built around handmade children's clothing and supporting other mothers through sewing. We dive into the emotional depths of her story, the strength found in community, and her inspiring vision for the future, from sustainable fashion for kids to helping more mums turn creativity into confidence and entrepreneurship.Key Takeaways:Sewing became a therapeutic outlet for Debbie, helping her cope with grief.She started her first business, Lolapops, from her kitchen table.Debbie emphasises the importance of community and support for mothers.Her sewing classes have transformed lives, providing emotional healing.Debbie's new venture, Handmade Loop, focuses on sustainability in children's clothing.She encourages mothers to prioritise self-care while managing their creative businesses.Debbie's journey illustrates the power of creativity in overcoming adversity.She aims to help other mothers start their own creative businesses.Debbie's story highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to foster connection. Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:[email protected] Details: Instagram: @thismummysews                    @handmadeloopWebsite: www.thismummysews.comwww.handmadeloop.comBaby loss charities: www.sands.org.ukwww.tommys.orgwww.teddyswish.orgChapters00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning00:55 Debbie's Journey into Sewing02:03 The Impact of Baby Loss on Mental Health07:17 Finding Purpose Through Sewing09:53 Building a Creative Business11:52 The Birth of Lolapops and Its Success14:31 Transitioning to Teaching Sewing Classes18:10 Launching the Members Club20:56 Transformative Stories from Sewing Classes24:05 The Importance of Community and Support26:31 The Evolution of Handmade Loop30:13 Sustainability in Children's Clothing32:27 Future Plans and Aspirations35:00 Advice for New Entrepreneurs38:51 Fun Quickfire Round42:38 Where to Find Debbie

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• Why Sewing Matters: Tony Rea Talks Mental Health, Community and Creativity

  Send us a textIn this inspiring and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Tony Rea — a self-taught sewist who picked up a needle and thread at age 50 and stitched his way to the Sewing Bee final. Tony shares how sewing became not just a creative outlet, but a therapeutic lifeline, opening doors he never imagined.From behind-the-scenes moments on the show to his bold personal style, Tony talks about the joy of making, and why he’s on a mission to get more men sewing. Plus, he gives us a glimpse into what’s next — from hosting workshops to building stronger creative communities.It’s a reminder that creativity can take us in unexpected directions — and sometimes, all it takes is a stitch to get started.Key Takeaways:Tony started sewing at the age of 50 and is entirely self-taught.He views sewing as a form of engineering, following patterns like blueprints.The Sewing Bee experience was intense but rewarding, leading to personal growth.Sewing serves as a therapeutic outlet, promoting mental well-being.Tony is passionate about encouraging men to take up sewing as a hobby.He has a strong interest in refashioning items and zero waste practices.Tony's favourite makes from the Sewing Bee were the dress from Children’s week and the challenge based around Surrealist Art.He values the lessons learned from judges on the Sewing Bee, especially about sleeves and patterns.Tony enjoys teaching workshops and sharing his love for sewing with others.He believes in keeping his hobby separate from work to maintain his passion. Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:[email protected] Details: Instagram: @Tonyr.makerWebsite: menmakers.co.ukThe Tony Shirt pattern: Emporia Patterns (https://emporia-fabric.co.uk)Mind - www.mind.org.ukCALM - www.thecalmzone.netChapters00:00 The Journey Begins: Tony's Sewing Story05:59 From Hobby to Competition: Joining the Sewing Bee10:29 The Intense Experience of the Sewing Bee13:18 Sewing and Mental Health: A Therapeutic Outlet17:45 Proud Moments: Favourite Makes and Challenges21:07 Lessons from the Judges: Insights and Advice24:00 Life After the Sewing Bee: Opportunities and Growth30:21 Teaching and Workshops: Sharing the Passion32:13 Sustainable Sewing: Zero Waste and Upcycling36:13 Personal Style: Influences and Inspirations38:21 Future Plans: What's Next for Tony?

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• Exploring Natural Dyes and Textile Art with Jess Chan

  Send us a textIn this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, Gemma Daly sits down with textile designer and natural dye expert Jess Chan for a vibrant conversation full of creativity and inspiration. Jess opens up about her artistic journey, from the sparks that first ignited her passion to the path that led her to teaching and working with naturally dyed textiles. She dives into the beauty and complexity of natural dyes, busts some common myths, and explains how she thoughtfully sources her materials. Jess also shares stories from her eye-opening artist residency in Mexico, how she juggles life as a maker and entrepreneur, and offers thoughtful advice for anyone curious about stepping into the world of natural dyeing.Key Takeaways: Jess Chan is the founder and designer of Jess Chan Textiles, specialising in naturally dyed textiles.Her creative journey began with a love for drawing and silkscreen printing.Jess studied printed textiles and surface pattern design at Leeds College of Art and natural dyes at Chelsea College of Art.She enjoys the methodical nature of dyeing and the element of surprise it brings.Natural dyes can produce a wide range of colours, including vibrant pinks and earthy tones.Jess forages for local plants like Buddleia, nettles and walnuts for her dyeing process.Common misconceptions about natural dyes include the belief that they are only "muddy" colours and not colourfast.Silk and wool are her preferred fabrics for dyeing due to their beautiful results.Jess teaches silkscreen printing and natural dyeing at Loughborough University.Her artist residency in Mexico provided her with in-depth training in traditional dyeing methods.Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:[email protected] details: Website: www.jesschantextiles.comInstagram: @jesschantextilesIn person events coming up: Paperdolls Handmade (Digbeth, Birmingham) 29th-30th NovemberCraft Fair Contemporary (Nottingham) 5th-7th DecemberCraft Fox Market (Kings Cross, London) 13th DecemberWinterfolk Festive Market (Nottingham) 14th DecemberChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jess Chan and Her Journey03:41 Exploring Natural Dyes and Their Unique Qualities08:46 Inspiration and Seasonal Influences in Design14:17 Common Misconceptions About Natural Dyes18:49 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge in Textiles22:01 Artist Residency in Mexico: A Transformative Experience27:46 A Week in the Life of Jess Chan30:09 Product Offerings and Future Aspirations33:58 Getting Started with Natural Dyeing38:01 Fun This or That Game

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• From Sewing Bee to Sewing Boss with Jen Hogg from Jenerates

  Send us a textIn this episode of The Sewing Social, host Gemma sits down with Jen — a self-taught sewist, small business owner, and familiar face from The Great British Sewing Bee. Jen shares her inspiring journey from learning to sew at home to building a thriving business rooted in creativity, innovation, and sustainable values.Together, they explore the realities of competing on national TV, the challenges and joys of running a handmade business, and the power of community in the sewing world. Jen also introduces her line of thoughtfully designed sewing tools — created to solve real problems while supporting a more sustainable approach to making.Whether you're passionate about slow fashion, love clever sewing hacks, or just want a peek behind the seams, this episode offers fresh insight, inspiration, and practical tips from a maker who’s redefining what it means to sew with purpose.Key TakeawaysJen learned to sew from her grandmother and through trial and error.Mistakes in sewing are valuable learning experiences.Jen enjoys the engineering aspect of the creative process.Her business started organically after creating a useful sewing tool.Sustainability and social responsibility are key values in her business.The sewing community is supportive and collaborative.Jen's innovative tools have had a positive impact on sewing practices.She enjoys using surplus fabric for her projects.Jen loves to use charity shops and factory surplus for sourcing fabric.Jen sews primarily for herself but also for her family.Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:[email protected] details:Website: www.jenhogg.co.ukInstagram: @jeneratesChapters00:00 Introduction to Jen and Her Sewing Journey02:57 Exploring Jen's Creative Background and Skills07:52 Transitioning from Law to Sewing Business11:44 The Experience of Being on The Sewing Bee14:05 The Importance of Community in Sewing17:31 Innovative Sewing Tools and Their Impact23:59 Personal Sewing Projects and Sustainability28:38 Fun Rapid-Fire Questions with Jen              

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