The Sewing Social

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In this episode, Erica shares her inspiring journey from police officer to skilled traditional upholsterer, transforming her career through creativity and craftsmanship. 
She highlights her commitment to sustainable upholstery, using eco-friendly materials and preserving time-honoured techniques. 
She also introduces the innovative Sew & Stow cutting board, designed to make fabric cutting easier, more efficient, and more precise for makers of all levels.
Discover how Erica is building a purpose-driven craft business, championing sustainable sewing practices, and empowering others through hands-on upholstery courses and creative education.

Key Takeaways: 
Erica's career transitioned from British Telecom to the Police force, and then onto upholstery
She emphasises the importance of eco-friendly and natural materials in upholstery
She developed the Sew & Stow fabric cutting board from a board she had made for herself 
Erica talks about how craft and upholstery can aid mental health and well-being
Erica explains her approach to teaching upholstery and empowering others

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Guest Details: 
Sew and Stow website:  https://sewandstow.co.uk
Instagram: @sewandstow.uk
Facebook: byericajane
Discount code for listeners (£10 off a cutting board): Sewingsocialpod 

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

Resources:
Leanne Treadwell - Bristol Upholstery Collective - https://www.bristolupholsterycollective.co.uk
Renee Hodson - Master Upholsterer - https://www.reneehodson.co.uk

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties
00:10 Erica's Journey into Sewing and Upholstery
02:22 Transition from Police Officer to Upholsterer
05:13 The Impact of Personal Loss and Finding Purpose
08:04 Traditional Upholstery Techniques and Materials
10:56 The Importance of Natural Materials in Upholstery
13:37 Teaching Upholstery and Community Engagement
16:37 Upholstery as a Therapeutic Craft
19:33 Challenges and Standout Projects in Upholstery
25:28 The Art of Upholstery: Techniques and Insights
28:04 Sewing Journey: From Upholstery to Fashion
30:21 Innovating the Cutting Board: The Sew and Stow Story
49:52 Sew and Stow: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Future Plans
56:33 Outro - Kofi

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In this episode, Izzy shares her inspiring journey from a career in landscape architecture to launching her own sewing business, Izzo Sew Studio. 
She talks about how her passion for sewing grew into a platform that helps others build confidence in making and fitting their own clothes. 
Izzy discusses the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, a more sustainable approach to fashion, and a way to connect with a supportive creative community.
We also dive into her approach to garment fitting and pattern drafting, along with practical insights that can help sewists better understand their bodies and achieve clothes that truly fit. 
Izzy shares what inspired her to start hosting sewing retreats, workshops, and socials, and how these events bring people together to learn, share skills, and enjoy sewing in a welcoming environment. 
Whether you're just starting out or looking to develop your sewing skills further, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone interested in making their own wardrobe. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:
Izzy began her sewing journey in Nepal in the foothills of the Himalayas 
She qualified as a Landscape Architect but now runs her own business as a Pattern Designer and Fitting Expert
Izzy runs Izzo Sew Studio with her husband Tim
They run several retreats across the country including The Lake District, The Peak District and Ascot.
Izzy feels that making your own clothes is a reflection of who you are and repeatedly wearing your handmade wardrobe makes it sustainable.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
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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 - @izzosewstudio
Website - https://www.izzosewstudio.com
Facebook: Izzo Sew Studio
New Beginner Bespoke Dressmaking Course: https://www.izzosewstudio.com/learn-to-sew

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Izzy and Izzo Sew Studio
00:43 Izzy's Sewing Beginnings
02:37 Career Transition to Sewing
08:26 A Day in the Life of Izzy
10:33 Benefits of Learning to Sew
14:32 Sewing Retreats: A Creative Escape
18:03 Personalised Guidance and Fitting Techniques
22:31 Sewing Social Days: Community and Connection
22:48 Sewing and Sustainability: A Perfect Match
24:17 Exciting Upcoming Events and Workshops
28:56 Fun and Games: This or That?
31:49 Outro

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In this episode, Becky from Pattern, Paper, Scissors, shares her journey from fashion designer to founder of a creative sewing brand designing patterns for children and families. 
Becky also sells fabrics, kits and designs sewing labels in her online shop.
We talk about the realities of balancing motherhood and business, the power of creativity, her passion for sustainable fashion, and why making time for the things you love truly matters.
She also gives us an insight into her pattern designing work for Prima Magazine. 

Key Takeaways: 
Becky has a background in fashion design and studied this at University
She started her business Pattern Paper Scissors after she'd had her first child
Becky talks about the importance of sustainable fashion and slow sewing
She gives some tips for carving out sewing time as a busy parent/busy person
Designing versatile, unisex, and practical kids' patterns is the heart of her business
She balances multiple roles: pattern designer/editor, fabric seller, and business owner
Becky talks about the emotional and educational value of handmade clothing for children

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
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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]

Guest details: 
Instagram: @pattern_paper_scissors
Website: www.patternpaperscissors.co.uk
Facebook: Pattern Paper Scissors
TikTok: @patternpaperscissors

Sponsor details: 
Debbie: @thismummysews
Click the link below to find out what your special treat is! 
www.thismummysews.com/free-resources

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Becky and Her Sewing Journey
02:09 Transitioning from Fashion Industry to Entrepreneurship
06:59 Sustainability in Fashion and Its Impact on Children
08:43 Designing and Drafting Skills in Fashion
10:47 Creating a Collection for Kids
13:06 The Importance of Comfort in Children's Clothing
19:15 The Value of Handmade Clothing
23:08 Overview of Pattern Paper Scissors
27:07 Exciting Future Plans
28:55 Fun This or That Game
31:21 Outro tip on Kofi

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In this episode, Tali Thomason shares her journey into sustainable sewing and the art of building a slow fashion wardrobe from reclaimed materials. 
She explores the inspiration behind her book "Slow Stitch Style" and explains how intentional, ritual-based sewing can transform the way we relate to our clothes.
From reclaiming fabrics to embracing a neurodivergent-friendly creative practice, Tali reveals how slow stitching becomes more than a craft — it’s a grounding act of rebellion against fast fashion and hustle culture. 
If you’re interested in sustainable living, conscious wardrobe building, and mindful making, this conversation offers practical insight and soulful inspiration.

Key Takeaways: 
Tali was taught to sew by her Grandmother at the age of 8
She enjoys both sewing and knitting 
She sources most of her fabrics from thrift shops or refashions other garments
She has written a book called Slow Stitch Style which focuses on putting together a capsule wardrobe using reclaimed materials
Tali is neurodivergent and uses certain practices to ensure that she can enjoy her sewing and get the most out of her time
Tali feels that slow living and crafting things with your hands is an act of rebellion against a very fast paced world

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: @slowstitchrebellion
                     @taliunraveled
Website: https://slowstitchrebellion.substack.com/

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Tali Thomason and Her Sewing Journey
02:06 The Art of Reclaimed Fabrics
03:35 Creating with Thrifted Materials
06:05 The Concept of Slow Stitch Style
08:51 Understanding Reclaimed Materials
10:33 Building a Capsule Wardrobe
12:44 Sustainable Fashion Practices
14:41 Evolving Personal Style
17:26 The Importance of Intentionality in Sewing
17:59 The Journey of Intentionality in Sewing
20:27 Neurodivergent Friendly Creative Practices
23:31 Rebellion Against Hustle Culture
28:34 Sewing as a Grounding Ritual
30:37 The Importance of Community in Sewing
32:49 Exciting Future Plans and Projects
38:22 Outro - tip on Ko-fi.wav

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Join us for an inspiring and honest conversation with Caz, winner of Season 11 of The Great British Sewing Bee, as she unpicks the story behind her success. 
From childhood crafting to stepping into the sewing room spotlight, Caz shares the journey that shaped her skills and her self-belief.
We dive into what it really felt like to compete on national television, the mindset shifts that helped her overcome self-doubt, and how the experience transformed both her confidence and her craft. 
Caz also opens up about her love of upcycling, why sustainability matters in modern sewing, and how embracing creativity (even when it feels scary) can unlock a whole new level in your making.
Whether you’re just threading your first needle or dreaming of taking your sewing further, this episode is packed with encouragement, practical insights, and a reminder that growth happens when you dare to back yourself. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:
Caz started crafting from an early age
She made her own wedding dress and had a break from sewing for the next 25years!
She had open heart surgery around the period of lockdown
Applying for and being on the Sewing Bee was a joyous experience for her
She had a lot of fun with designing her makes for the show, even though she would say she wasn't a creative sewist before this
Following her win on the show, she has been to several sewing socials and feels they are very important to the sewing community 
Caz believes in sustainability and reducing waste in sewing
She has spoken at several events, putting herself out of her comfort zone
Caz currently takes part in a podcast with her friends Dan and Stuart, who are also from the Sewing Bee

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: @cazsews
Facebook: cazsews
Podcast: Make and Tailor - www.makeandtailor.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
00:19 The Journey Back to Sewing
03:08 Applying for The Sewing Bee
05:40 The Audition Process
08:19 Shutting Down a Business
10:46 Skills and Challenges on The Show
13:28 Creative Growth and Style Evolution
16:11 Winning The Sewing Bee and Final Outfit
18:55 Design Process and Personal Journey
21:12 Creative Inspirations and Iconic Designs
22:59 Building Friendships Through Sewing
24:11 The Importance of Community in Sewing
25:24 Social Events and Connections
26:22 Public Speaking and Overcoming Shyness
28:29 Sustainability in Sewing and Upcycling
31:21 Current Projects and Inspirations
32:14 Encouragement for Aspiring Sewers
33:17 Engaging with Underprivileged Youth
34:40 Fun and Games: This or That
39:35 Outro - tip on Ko-fi