The Sewing Social

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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

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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: 
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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:
[email protected]

 Affiliate Links:
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     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

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In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Harriet Cleary, founder of Sew Me Sunshine, the much-loved fabric and haberdashery store based in West London. 
Harriet opens up about her inspiring journey into sewing, from learning the craft to making the bold career leap from nursing to running a creative small business.
The conversation explores the power of community in the sewing and dressmaking world, as well as the realities of building a fabric business from the ground up. 
Harriet shares behind-the-scenes insights into fabric sourcing, including working with deadstock fabrics, and explains why sustainability and mindful making are at the heart of Sew Me Sunshine.
Listeners will also gain practical advice for aspiring creative entrepreneurs, covering everything from taking risks to staying motivated. 
This episode is a must-listen for sewing enthusiasts, dressmakers, fabric lovers, and small business owners looking for inspiration, honest advice, and a reminder of why creativity and community matter.

Key Takeaways:
Harriet started sewing as a creative outlet after a challenging time in her nursing career.
Sew Me Sunshine was born from Harriet's passion for sewing and desire to share that joy with others.
The name 'Sew Me Sunshine' reflects Harriet's aim to evoke happiness through sewing.
Harriet's husband played a crucial role in helping her set up the business.
The early days of Sew Me Sunshine involved a small selection of fabrics and a supportive community.
Sourcing deadstock fabrics is a key part of Sew Me Sunshine's business model.
Harriet has begun designing her own fabric collections, focusing on sustainability.
Building genuine connections with customers is essential for Harriet's business.
Harriet emphasizes the importance of being financially sustainable while pursuing creative passions.
Sew Me Sunshine is committed to recycling fabric scraps and using eco-friendly packaging.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
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If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
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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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 Affiliate Links:
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     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details: 
Instagram: @sewmesunshine.uk
Website: www.sewmesunshine.co.uk
Youtube: @sewmesunshine
Tiktok: @sewmesunshine

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Harriet Cleary and Sew Me Sunshine
00:57 Harriet's Personal Sewing Journey
04:23 Transitioning from Hobby to Business
06:06 The Origin of Sew Me Sunshine
07:38 Early Days of the Business
12:55 Sourcing Fabrics and Dead Stock
17:56 Designing Fabric Collections
20:26 Building Community Connections
21:49 In-Person vs Online Sales Dynamics
22:57 Advice for Aspiring Creative Entrepreneurs
25:11 The Reality of Running a Creative Business
26:09 Sustainability in the Sewing Community
29:37 Future Plans for Sew Me Sunshine
31:19 Fun and Games: This or That with Harriet Cleary
36:15 Outro

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Jen Legg, a much-loved, colourful sewist and well-known voice in the sewing community. 
Jen shares her sewing journey, her unmistakable love of sewing and wearing jumpsuits, and how she makes projects that truly work for her lifestyle.
The conversation explores the emotional connection we build with our handmade wardrobes, embracing colour and personal style, and sewing with joint pain and arthritis—including the practical adaptations Jen uses to keep making comfortably.
They also chat about the Sew Recreate the Look challenge, Jen’s growing YouTube journey, and wrap up with a lively rapid-fire question round for some light-hearted fun.

Key Takeaways:

Sewing has always been a part of Jen's life.
Her first project was a lace top.
Jen has made over 100 jumpsuits.
She finds inspiration mainly from fabric.
Memories are often tied to her makes.
Colour has always been important to her wardrobe.
Managing arthritis is a challenge in sewing.
The Sew Recreate the Look challenge encourages creativity.
YouTube has been a new but rewarding journey for Jen.
Sewing is therapeutic for Jen. 

Follow me: 
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If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
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Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
[email protected]

 Affiliate Links:
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     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details:
Instagram: @jenleggsews
Youtube: Jen Legg (@jenleggsews)
Tiktok: @jenleggsews4

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction 
00:47 Jen's Sewing Journey
02:37 The Love for Jumpsuits
04:29 Project Planning and Inspiration
06:25 Memorable Makes and Emotional Connections
09:08 The Colourful Wardrobe
12:52 Managing Arthritis in Sewing
15:56 The Sew Recreate the Look Challenge
20:19 Embracing YouTube: A Personal Journey
23:10 Future Plans and Sustainable Sewing
25:21 Fun and Games: This or That
29:19 Outro

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In this inspiring episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Susan Young, a highly respected figure in the sewing community, to explore her lifelong passion for sewing and fashion. 
Sue shares her journey from learning to sew as a child to building a successful career in bridal wear, education, and community leadership.
Throughout the conversation, Sue reflects on her love of teaching sewing skills, the importance of accurate fabric handling, and why technical knowledge is just as vital as creativity. 
She also celebrates the power of colour in fashion and speaks candidly about the need for greater visibility and representation of older women within the modern sewing world.
Listeners will enjoy hearing about Sue's work with sewing publications, her role in organising local sewing groups, and the excitement and community spirit behind hosting Frocktails events. 
Packed with practical sewing tips, industry insight, and heartfelt encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for dressmakers, textile lovers, and sewing enthusiasts of all levels.

Key Takeaways:
Sue's sewing journey began in childhood, fueled by curiosity.
Accurate cutting is crucial for successful sewing projects.
Embracing colour can enhance personal style and confidence.
Visibility for older women in the sewing community is essential.
Local sewing groups foster connection and support among sewists.
Frocktails events celebrate the sewing community and creativity.
Respect for fabric is important, regardless of cost.
Personal style evolves with confidence and experience.
Sewing allows for individual expression and creativity.

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:
[email protected]

 Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details:
Instagram: @susanyoungsewing
                     @londonfrocktails - Tickets go live on 31/01/26!
Blog: https://susanyoungsewing.wordpress.com

Chapters
00:00 The Sewing Journey Begins
02:37 Career Path in Sewing
08:36 Embracing Colour and Personal Style
15:31 Visibility and Representation in Sewing
20:36 Community Connections and Socials
29:42 The Power of In-Person Connections
30:36 Organising Frocktails Events
33:15 Success and Challenges of Frocktails
34:59 Future Plans for Frocktails
36:52 Personal Style and Sewing Preferences
41:48 Sewing for Loved Ones
44:32 This or That: Fun Rapid Fire Questions
53:13 Thready Set Go discount code