The Sewing Social

Gemma Daly

Gemma Daly (@thedalythread) hosts The Sewing Social Podcast - join her as she chats with passionate makers who sew their own clothes, small business owners and enthusiastic members of the sewing community.  This podcast discusses topics such as eco friendly fabrics, embracing slow fashion, the enjoyment of sewing, and the importance of a supportive community.

  1. hace 20 h

    Big Four Sewing Patterns Made Easy: Amy Scarr (Almond Rock Sews) on Pattern Hacking, Fit and Building a Handmade Wardrobe

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Amy Scarr (also known as Almond Rock Sews on Instagram) shares her inspiring journey into garment sewing, from discovering a love of making her own clothes to becoming a passionate advocate for "Big Four" sewing patterns and creative dressmaking. Amy explains why she champions brands like Simplicity, McCall's, and Butterick, she busts some of the common myths around using commercial sewing patterns, and shares practical tips to help sewists build confidence and achieve a better fit. We also explore how sewing has become an important outlet for Amy's creativity and mental wellbeing, discussing the joy of making, developing a personal style, and why pattern hacking is a brilliant way to create a wardrobe that's uniquely your own. Whether you're new to garment sewing or looking to get more from your sewing patterns, this episode is packed with practical advice, creative inspiration, and encouragement to help you sew with confidence. Key Takeaways:  Amy's sewing journey progressed from hobby to careerShe provides tips for using big four sewing patternsWe discuss the mental health benefits of sewingAmy talks about her love for pattern hacking and customisation techniquesShe discusses her approach to personal style and dopamine dressing 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest details:  Instagram: @almondrock_sews Website: www.almondrock.co.uk Youtube: @almondrock Embroidered dress progresshttps://youtu.be/7qU-YowuNlI?is=179fKgswEld16_eC Laced bodice dresshttps://youtu.be/SxxTDljM_fM?is=mytkiy6e24vQ0WGD Me Made May 2025 with Jimi https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMdmlu9YA0UsDYBAtCTR6MF0SDpuAwaXo&si=SHeqcUjkhvW1VsJL Me Made May 2026 with Jimihttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMdmlu9YA0UsHZDrvHRTrXW6UwJp3dakK&si=ZLeucGukVpKNRpd1 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Amy's Sewing Journey Begins 02:27 Career Path in the Sewing Industry 04:35 Freelancing and Current Projects 05:26 Writing for Sewing Magazines 07:32 Inspiration and Learning in Sewing 08:15 Personal Style and Dopamine Dressing 11:36 Favorite Patterns and Tips for Beginners 15:25 The Evolution of Sewing Patterns 17:49 Sewing as a Creative Outlet 20:08 Body Positivity Through Sewing 22:21 Me Made May: A Fun Experiment 25:19 YouTube Journey and Content Plans 27:45 Current Projects and Future Aspirations 29:50 Rapid Fire: This or That Game 33:39 Substack

    34 min
  2. 24 jun

    Life After Winning The Great British Sewing Bee: Sewing, Creativity and Community with Luke-Matthew Iveson

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Luke-Matthew Iveson, winner of The Great British Sewing Bee, shares his inspiring journey from learning to sew with his grandmother as a child to becoming one of the UK's best-known sewing personalities and content creators. Luke reflects on his experience of winning The Great British Sewing Bee, how the show transformed his life, and the opportunities that followed.  We discuss the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, the positive impact creativity can have on mental wellbeing, and how finding a supportive sewing community helped shape his confidence and career. From teaching and content creation to inspiring the next generation of sewists, Luke offers a fascinating insight into life after the Sewing Bee and why sewing remains such an important part of who he is. Whether you're a fan of The Great British Sewing Bee, looking for sewing inspiration, or curious about how creativity can support wellbeing and personal growth, this episode is packed with warmth, encouragement, and practical insights. Key Takeaways: Luke learned to sew as a child with his grandmaHe won Season 10 of The Great British Sewing BeeLuke explains the role of drag in his sewing and self-expression, and the importance of representation in the sewing communityHe talks through how he created a capsule wardrobe and its impact on styleHis Sewing for strangers series has given him purposeLuke's new book 'Around the World in Eighty Sews' is available for pre-order now! 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details:  Website: www.sewlukeivo.com Instagram: @sewlukeivo Facebook: Luke-Matthew Iveson Tiktok: @sewlukeivo YouTube: @sewlukeivo Book: https://www.dashbook.fr/book/around-the-world-in-80-sews Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luke Iveson 00:42 The Early Days of Sewing 03:35 Journey to the Sewing Bee 05:36 Experiences on the Show 08:25 Navigating Fame in the Sewing Community 09:15 Sewing as Self-Expression 13:02 Transitioning to Full-Time Sewing 15:07 The World of Drag and Sewing 17:54 The Importance of Representation 19:40 Sewing for Well-Being 21:47 Sewing for Strangers 25:42 Around the World in Eighty Sews 29:17 Future Plans and Projects 32:29 Substack

    33 min
  3. 19 jun

    How Sewing Changed My Life: Creativity, Wellbeing and Building a Handmade Wardrobe with Dr Claire Ashley

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley shares how she discovered sewing during a challenging period in her life and how it grew from a practical skill into a powerful source of creativity, confidence, and wellbeing.  From teaching herself to sew, to building a colourful handmade wardrobe, Claire reflects on the lessons, challenges, and joys of her sewing journey. We explore the mental health benefits of sewing, including how creative hobbies can boost self-efficacy, reduce stress, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Claire also shares her passion for sustainable fashion, upcycling clothes, and embracing a more mindful approach to making. Whether you're new to sewing, looking to rekindle your sew-jo, or interested in the connection between creativity and wellbeing, this inspiring conversation is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and fresh ideas for your next sewing project. Claire Discusses:  Her self-taught sewing journey during the pandemicThe role of sewing in mental health and wellbeingUpcycling charity shop finds into new garmentsChallenges and rewards of sewing from scratch and upcyclingInspiration from nature and social media for sewing projects 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details:  Instagram: @wiredtomake Tiktok: @wiredtomake Book: The Burnout Doctor  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and her sewing journey 06:25 Claire’s inspiration for her own sewing  07:41 Upcycling charity shop garments 12:16 What sewing brings in one sentence 12:36 Exciting plans 14:03 Where you can find Claire 14:35 Join my Substack

    15 min
  4. 18 jun

    The Psychology of Sewing: Motivation, Identity and Wellbeing with Dr Claire Ashley

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley explores the fascinating connection between sewing and mental wellbeing, uncovering the psychology behind why we sew and what keeps us coming back to our machines.  From motivation and creativity to identity, self-expression, and emotional attachment, to handmade clothes, we delve into the deeper role sewing plays in our lives. We also discuss common challenges that can affect your sew-jo, including stress, anxiety, burnout, social media comparison, perfectionism, and major life transitions.  Claire shares practical insights into how understanding the psychology of sewing can help you rediscover your motivation, build a healthier relationship with your hobby, and find greater enjoyment in the creative process. Whether you've lost your sew-jo, feel overwhelmed by your project pile, or are curious about the mental health benefits of sewing, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how creativity can support wellbeing. Claire discusses:  The concept of sew-jo and factors affecting motivationThe role of social media and comparison in sewingSewing for an aspirational identity versus practical needsEmotional attachment to handmade garments and decluttering challengesThe influence of life transitions, motherhood, and body changes on sewing habitsThe concept of enclothed cognition and dressing for the desired selfDopamine's role in fabric shopping and planningStrategies to improve sew-jo through environment and habitsThe psychological benefits of sewing and self-expression 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details:  Instagram: @wiredtomake Book: The Burnout Doctor  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and today’s topic - The Psychology of Sewing 01:17 Sew-jo 07:12 Sewing for the life you don’t have 11:43 Decluttering handmade garments and the emotional attachment 17:58 Motherhood and sewing for someone you hope to be rather than who you                are now 21:44 Fabric stashes and why our brains make us create them

    24 min
  5. 17 jun

    ADHD and Sewing: How Creative Hobbies Support Focus, Calm and Self-Regulation with Dr Claire Ashley

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Claire Ashley to explore ADHD, how it really presents in adulthood, and why sewing can become a powerful tool for self-regulation. We discuss the core symptoms of ADHD, why so many women are misdiagnosed or diagnosed later in life, and the link between ADHD, anxiety and chronic overwhelm. This is an honest, practical conversation about neurodiversity, creativity and building a healthier relationship with your sewing practice. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, struggled to finish projects, or found that sewing both soothes and consumes you, this episode will resonate. Claire Discusses: Executive dysfunction and task paralysisHyperfocus and creative burnoutMasking, perfectionism and shameUsing sewing as a calming, structured outletHow to balance a hobby without turning it into pressure 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details:  Instagram: @wiredtomake Book: The Burnout Doctor  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr Claire Ashley and today's topic ADHD 03:35 ADHD presents differently in women 06:19 Diagnosis later in life 07:30 Overwhelm paralysis 09:41 Hyperfocus 11:07 Using sewing as a positive outlet and avoiding overwhelm 13:53 ADHD, burnout and anxiety 16:13 Substack

    17 min
  6. 16 jun

    Understanding Anxiety with Dr Claire Ashley: Systems, Science and How Sewing Can Help

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr Claire Ashley explores anxiety - what it is, why it happens, and how it affects the body as well as the mind.  Drawing on both her medical expertise and lived experience, she explains the physiological response behind anxiety symptoms, from racing thoughts to a heightened stress response. We talk about practical strategies for managing anxiety in everyday life, and how creative hobbies like sewing can play a powerful role in supporting mental health.  From regulating the nervous system to creating moments of focus and calm, sewing offers more than just a finished garment - it can become part of a sustainable wellbeing routine. If you’ve ever wondered why anxiety feels so physical, or how to manage anxiety symptoms in a gentle, realistic way, this conversation offers both science-backed insight and practical tools. Claire discusses: What is anxiety and its physiological basisHow sewing induces mindfulness and flow stateThe impact of arts engagement on cortisol and inflammationPerfectionism and its link to anxiety in sewingPractical tips for reconnecting with sewing for anxiety relief 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest details: Instagram: @wiredtomake Book: The Burnout Doctor  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and anxiety 03:59 How engaging in creative arts helps anxiety 08:52 Perfectionism and anxiety 12:37 Tips for people wanting to engage in sewing without pressure 14:08 Substack end of the show

    15 min
  7. 15 jun

    Burnout Symptoms and Recovery: Dr Claire Ashley on Stress, Sewing and Wellbeing

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Claire Ashley, (a GP and passionate sewist) for an honest and informative conversation about burnout, how to recognise the symptoms, and what recovery can really look like. Claire shares her personal experience of burnout alongside her medical perspective, explaining the science behind chronic stress and how it impacts both our physical and mental health.  We talk about the early warning signs that are often missed, why burnout is more than just “feeling tired,” and how high-achieving, caring professions can be particularly vulnerable. We also explore the role creative hobbies like sewing can play in burnout recovery - offering structure, focus, and a sense of progress during periods of overwhelm. This episode blends medical insight with lived experience, and offers practical, compassionate guidance for anyone navigating stress, burnout, or looking for healthier ways to support their wellbeing. Claire discusses:  What burnout actually is and its core componentsSigns and symptoms of burnoutThe impact of burnout on brain and bodyThe role of creative hobbies in recoveryPractical tips for preventing burnout 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details:  Instagram: @wiredtomake Book: The Burnout Doctor  https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and the Podcast Format 02:26 Understanding Burnout: Definition and Symptoms 08:21 The Journey Through Burnout: Personal Experiences 11:04 The Role of Creative Hobbies in Recovery 17:24 Sewing as a Therapeutic Tool for Anxiety

    22 min
  8. 10 jun

    Behind the Scenes of Guthrie and Ghani: Growth, Community and the Power of Sewing

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Lauren Guthrie shares the story behind her journey from working as a physiotherapist to founding Guthrie & Ghani, and how a love of sewing slowly grew into something much bigger than she ever expected. We talk about her experience on The Great British Sewing Bee and how that moment shaped the direction of her career, as well as the realities of building and evolving a fabric shop in an ever-changing industry. Lauren reflects on the growth of the sewing community over the years, what it really takes to source beautiful, high-quality fabrics, and how she’s navigated the challenges of scaling a creative business while staying connected to the joy of making. It’s an honest conversation about growth, not just in business, but personally and creatively, and about building something that’s rooted in community as much as it is in sewing. Key takeaways: Lauren used to be a Physiotherapist but became burnt out and decided to change career.Lauren was on the first season of The Great British Sewing Bee - she feels this has shaped her career so far.Guthrie and Ghani has been going 13 years so far and continues to evolve.Lauren acquired G&G's sister company Pattern Trace in the last couple of years.The Sewing Society kits that G&G are well known for have changed recently from monthly releases to a quarterly box. 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com *Join my Substack where we continue the conversations:  The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial Guest Details: Website: www.guthrie-ghani.co.uk Instagram: @guthrieghani                   : @guthrieghani_studio                   : @patterntraceuk Youtube: @laurenguthrieghani Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD Chapters 00:00 Introductions 00:10 Lauren's Journey into Sewing and Business 05:00 The Experience of Being on The Sewing Bee 05:54 Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship 08:04 From Healthcare to Creativity: A Personal Journey 10:28 The Evolution of the Sewing Community 14:14 Building a Supportive Sewing Community 15:25 Evolving Business: From In-Store to Online 16:58 Sourcing Fabrics: Balancing Trends and Personal Taste 18:44 The Transformation of Sewing Kits 22:48 Designing Fabrics: A Personal Touch 29:19 Acquiring Pattern Trace: Expanding Horizons 31:28 Exciting Future Plans for Guthrie and Ghani 36:28 Substack end of the show

    37 min

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Gemma Daly (@thedalythread) hosts The Sewing Social Podcast - join her as she chats with passionate makers who sew their own clothes, small business owners and enthusiastic members of the sewing community.  This podcast discusses topics such as eco friendly fabrics, embracing slow fashion, the enjoyment of sewing, and the importance of a supportive community.

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