The Sewing Social

• Menopause Makes and Crafting Change with Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh

  Send us a text🎙️ In this inspiring episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly chats with Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh — the creative duo from Ilkley, West Yorkshire — whose friendship blossomed into a thriving partnership in the world of sewing and quilting.Jenni and Kay share how their love of fabric and creativity led them to build a supportive sewing community and launch exciting projects that bring people together through craft. They also open up about their latest book, Menopause Makes, which uses sewing to spark honest conversations about women’s health and empowerment.Listeners will hear about their collaboration with Quiltfolk, the heartwarming stories stitched into their quilts, and what’s next for this talented pair in the ever-evolving crafting industry. Whether you’re a passionate quilter or new to sewing, this episode is full of inspiration, creativity, and community spirit.Key TakeawaysJenni and Kay met at a tap dancing class, which sparked their friendship.They transitioned from friends to business partners through a shared passion for sewing.Their business grew organically, focusing on community and creativity.Sewing provides a therapeutic outlet, especially during challenging times.Their book 'Menopause Makes' addresses women's health and encourages conversations.Quilts tell stories and connect people through shared experiences.They emphasise the importance of balancing family life with business.Their collaboration with Quilt Folk allows them to share global quilting stories.They aim to create a welcoming space for discussions about menopause.Future projects include workshops and exploring new sewing techniques.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: @jenniandkaycreateFacebook: Jenni and Kay createWebsite: www.menopausemakes.com                 www.quiltfolk.comChapters00:00 Introduction to the Sewing Social Podcast00:19 The Journey of Friendship and Sewing03:28 From Hobby to Business: The Evolution of Their Work06:12 Learning the Craft: Personal Sewing Journeys08:57 Current Projects and Passion for Dressmaking12:33 Collaboration with Quilt Folk: A Unique Perspective16:47 The Stories Behind Quilts: Community and Connection18:32 Exploring Quilting Heritage and Inspirations20:07 The Birth of 'Menopause Makes' Book25:38 Breaking the Silence on Menopause27:52 Creating a Welcoming Space for Conversations28:58 Future Plans and Exciting Projects31:22 Fun and Games: This or That?34:37 Outro - tip on Ko-fi.wavAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

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• The Art Of Quilting And Creative Events with Kat Molesworth

  Send us a textJoin us this week for an inspiring conversation with Kat Molesworth — master quilter, creative event curator, and passionate maker. Kat takes us through her journey from her early career in the creative industry to mastering the art of quilting. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her sewing journey, her work bringing creative communities together through events, and the joy she finds in every stitch. Packed with insights, stories, and heartfelt advice, this episode is a must-listen for quilters, makers, and anyone inspired by creativity and community.Key Takeaways:Kat has a diverse background in creative industries.She transitioned from various jobs to focus on events for bloggers and creators.Community and connection through social media have been pivotal in her journey.Running thoughtful events can transform attendees' lives and businesses.Kat emphasises the importance of considering all attendees' needs at events.She is the youngest master quilter, showcasing her dedication to the craft.Her quilting style blends traditional and modern techniques.Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts is a significant milestone for her.Kat encourages aspiring quilters to have fun and make for loved ones.She highlights the undervaluation of handmade crafts and the need for makers to assert their worth.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: @thatkatTiktok: superthatkatJob role: Programming Coordinator for Immediate Live's Craft PortfolioChapters00:00 Introduction to Kat Molesworth01:39 Kat's Creative Career Journey09:27 Event Planning in the Creative Industry11:47 Kat's Sewing Journey and Quilting Beginnings13:46 Becoming a Master Quilter16:16 Quilting Styles and Inspirations19:04 Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts23:46 Advice for Aspiring Quilters26:36 Future Plans and Exciting ProjectsAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

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• Sustainable Sewing, Conscious Choices and Small Business Life with Rosie from Sew Eco Fabrics

  Send us a textIn this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly chats with Rosie, the creative mind behind Sew Eco Fabrics — a beautiful small business championing sustainability in the sewing world. 🌿Rosie opens up about her journey from retail to running her own eco fabric shop, the highs and hurdles of small business life, and why conscious consumer choices matter more than ever. She also shares practical sewing tips, insights into choosing sustainable fabrics, and an exciting look at what’s next for Sew Eco — from innovative subscription boxes to upcoming market appearances.It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation about creativity, community, and making a difference — one stitch at a time. 🧵✨Key Takeaways: Rosie's journey began in retail, leading to a passion for sustainability.She started her business to make a difference in the fabric industry.Sustainability means offering only eco-friendly fabrics to consumers.Small steps towards sustainability are better than none at all.Rosie emphasises the importance of reusing materials in sewing.She aims to create a magical experience with her seasonal surprise boxes.Future plans include more basic fabrics and subscription boxes.Rosie enjoys the community aspect of sewing events and pop-ups.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.sewecofabrics.co.ukInstagram: @sewecofabricsPinterest: Sew Eco Fabrics Chapters00:00 Introduction and Early Conversations02:23 Rosie's Journey to Sustainable Fabrics08:06 Challenges of Running a Small Business11:32 Defining Sustainability in Business15:19 Practical Sustainable Sewing Tips17:02 Types of Eco-Friendly Fabrics Offered19:43 Navigating Pricing and Quality in Fabric Retail20:19 The Journey of a Self-Taught Seamstress22:43 Patterns and Fabrics: Preferences and Challenges25:04 Creating Unique Seasonal Surprise Boxes28:37 Future Plans: Expanding the Business30:22 Fun and Games: This or That with RosieAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

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• Bias Binding and Body Positivity with Laura from The Specky Seamstress

  Send us a textIn this insightful episode of the Sewing Social podcast, we chat with Laura, also known as The Specky Seamstress, about her journey into sewing, growing her skills, and turning her passion into a thriving business specialising in colourful bias binding.Laura shares how sewing has supported her mental well-being, how she juggles her creative work with family life, and what exciting projects are on the horizon.We also dive into the challenges of promoting size inclusivity in the sewing world.Whether you're a curious beginner or a lifelong maker, this episode offers thoughtful conversation, relatable stories, and plenty of creative energy.Key Takeaways:Laura started sewing in 2018 after leaving a job in London.She found a passion for making her own clothes due to the availability of online resources.Laura enjoys making dresses with fun prints and simple designs.Laura's favourite dress pattern is a hack of the Cashmerette Montrose pattern.She started her YouTube channel in 2019 to share her sewing journey.The Specky Seamstress business was born out of a desire for pretty bias binding during the pandemic.Laura balances her sewing business with family life and emphasises the importance of mental health.She is excited about future projects, including a new swimsuit and raincoat.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.thespeckyseamstress.comInstagram: @thespeckyseamstress                    @speckylauraChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Laura and Her Sewing Journey08:05 The Evolution of Sewing Skills and Preferences15:12 The Specky Seamstress Business and Bias Binding21:53 Balancing Sewing, Family, and Mental Health31:42 Future Plans and Projects36:30 Fun This or That Game

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• 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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