The Sewing Social

Gemma Daly
  • 4.2 (9)
  • Crafts

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. 17h ago

    Sewing, Sustainability and Storytelling: Meet Mila Moiso of Tauko Magazine

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly chats with Mila Moiso, co-founder and co-owner of Tauko Magazine, the international sewing magazine celebrating independent designers, creative sewing and the joy of making your own clothes. Mila shares her journey from working in the sustainable fashion industry to launching Tauko Magazine with her childhood friend Kaisa Rissanen. Having spent over a decade running their own fashion label, they discovered a new way to support creativity and independent designers by creating a sewing publication that brings together talented makers and diverse perspectives from around the world. We explore the relationship between sewing and sustainability, discussing how making your own clothes can change the way you think about fashion, consumption and the resources involved in producing garments. Mila explains why sewing, mending and making can help us become more conscious consumers and develop a deeper appreciation for the time and skill behind the clothes we wear. We also discuss clothing as a form of storytelling and self-expression, the importance of diversity in sewing pattern design, and the creative community that has grown around Tauko Magazine. Whether you're passionate about sustainable fashion, independent sewing patterns, dressmaking or simply finding inspiration for your next sewing project, this is a fascinating conversation about the value of making things for yourself. In this episode, we discuss: How Mila learned to sew growing up in Finland.The journey from running a sustainable fashion brand to launching Tauko Magazine.Why making your own clothes can encourage more sustainable fashion choices.The connection between sewing, creativity and self-expression.How clothing can communicate stories and personal identity.The importance of showcasing diverse designers and perspectives.Behind the scenes of creating an international sewing magazine.Finding inspiration for garment making in everyday life.Building a supportive and creative sewing community. 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 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 Guest Details: Tauko is an international sewing magazine based in Helsinki and Berlin, founded by Mila Moiso and Kaisa Rissanen. It brings together independent sewing pattern designers, inspiring photography, thoughtful articles and creative ideas for the home sewing community. Discover more about Tauko Magazine through their website and explore their collection of inspiring sewing patterns and publications. Website: www.taukomagazine.com Instagram: @taukomagazine Chapters 00:00 Meet Mila Moiso, Tauko’s co-founder 02:09 A childhood friendship built around making 03:01 How clothing became a storytelling medium 05:02 What a decade in sustainable fashion taught Mila 08:14 Finnish culture, scarcity, and consuming less 11:26 Does sewing make consumption more sustainable? 13:00 Finding lasting reward in making and mending 15:09 The pivot from fashion label to sewing magazine 20:01 Why the name Tauko means a pause 22:02 Behind the scenes of editing an issue 26:40 The denim issue and trusting the community 28:00 Why Tauko makes space for many designers 29:28 Mila’s design philosophy and sources of inspiration 31:33 Future workshops and the sewing this-or-that game

  2. Oct 14

    Rosie Briscoe AKA The Linen Thief on Thrift Flips, Upcycling and Sustainable Sewing

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when fashion design dreams take an unexpected turn? In this episode, Rosie Briscoe, better known as The Linen Thief, shares her creative journey into upcycling, thrift flips and sustainable sewing. Rosie explores how second-hand fabrics and pre-loved clothing can be transformed into unique, wearable pieces through creativity, experimentation and a willingness to think differently about fashion. She discusses the importance of sustainability, making the most of what you already have, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Whether you're passionate about sewing, love hunting for charity shop bargains, or want to embrace a more sustainable approach to fashion, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you rethink your wardrobe and discover the possibilities of upcycling. In this episode, we explore: Rosie's journey from fashion design ambitions to becoming The Linen Thief.How upcycling and thrift flips turn pre-loved clothing into something new.Sustainable fashion and reducing textile waste through creative reuse.Finding inspiration in second-hand fabrics and forgotten garments.Building sewing confidence through experimentation and creativity.The importance of community, shared knowledge and support in sewing.Why you don't need to buy new to create something original. 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 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 Guest Details:  Instagram: @linen_thief Tiktok: @linen_thief Facebook: @linen_thief Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rosie and her sewing journey 02:20 Starting sewing during lockdown and learning through trial and error 07:14 The moment Rosie realised her niche in thrift flips 11:30 The story behind the Linen Thief name and brand identity 16:49 Most unpromising garments turned into brilliant creations 22:21 Learning to see potential in fabrics and garments 25:37 What draws Rosie to designer fashion and its details 30:50 Rosie's thoughts on sustainability and secondhand shopping 38:53 Rosie's upcoming project: a photo shoot collection 41:25 Rosie's plans for a new creative collection 43:41 Where to find Rosie online and community support

  3. Oct 7

    From Dress The Nation To Haus Of Wincott: Chris Wincott on Fashion, Sewing and Sustainability

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Sewing Social, I’m joined by Chris Wincott (Haus of Wincott) to talk about his journey from experimenting with sewing as a child to developing his own ideas around fashion, textiles and design. You might recognise Chris from M&S: Dress the Nation, but his creative journey goes much further than the show. We talk about how his early experiences with sewing developed into a passion for fashion, and how his own experiences have influenced the work he wants to create. Chris has a particular interest in using fashion and textiles to start conversations around men's mental health, as well as exploring how clothing can be more innovative, sustainable and responsive. We chat about the ideas behind some of his projects, the role that sustainability plays in his work, and why clothing can be about so much more than simply what we wear. We also talk about what happens after appearing on a TV competition and deciding to build something for yourself. Chris is now developing his own fashion house, Haus Of Wincott, and shares his ambitions for the brand and where he wants to take his work next. In this episode, we talk about: Chris's journey into sewing and fashionHis experience on M&S: Dress the NationDesigning textiles with a focus on men's mental healthSustainability and making fashion more thoughtfullyInnovative and reactive clothingHow personal experiences influence creative workBuilding Haus Of WincottThe relationship between fashion, identity and wellbeingWhat it really means to build a career as an independent designer 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 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 Guest Details:  Instagram: @hausofwincott                   : @lilsibwinnie Website: www.hausofwincott.com Podcast: That's Sew Fashion Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Chris's background in fashion 01:57 Early influences and childhood sewing experiments 03:26 Studying textiles and fashion, and final collection themes 04:53 Designing for men's mental health and emotional wellbeing 05:59 Innovations in reactive and sensory clothing 07:51 Color psychology and mood regulation in fashion 10:59 Experience on M&S Dress the Nation and lessons learned 16:10 Most proud moment on the TV show and overcoming pressure 18:01 Building Haus of Wincott and future vision 21:08 Sustainable fashion week collection and inspiration 25:02 Upcoming projects, collaborations, and podcast 33:03 Final thoughts, advice, and where to find Chris

  4. Sep 30

    Building Emporia Patterns with Clair and Charlotte - Sewing, Fabric and Small Business Challenges

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to turn a love of sewing into a successful sewing pattern and fabric business? In this episode of The Sewing Social, I’m joined by Clair and Charlotte from Emporia Patterns to talk about their journey through the sewing world - from their early experiences with making and dressmaking to building an independent pattern and fabric business. We chat about designing sewing patterns, the hardships of a small business and  how the sewing community has evolved alongside the rise of The Great British Sewing Bee. Clair and Charlotte share what they’ve learnt along the way, how their approach to pattern design has developed, and what it’s really like turning something you love into a business. In this episode, we talk about: How Clair and Charlotte first discovered sewing and dressmakingThe journey from sewing enthusiast to independent sewing pattern designerHow Emporia Patterns came to beWhat goes into creating and developing a sewing patternBuilding a sewing business and connecting with the sewing communityHow The Great British Sewing Bee has influenced the world of sewingThe changing landscape of the independent sewing pattern industryFinding your own creative styleThe realities of running a small creative businessWhat keeps them excited about sewing and makingIf you love sewing, dressmaking, indie sewing patterns, fabric and The Great British Sewing Bee, this is one to listen to. 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 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 Guest Details:  Website: www.emporia-fabric.co.uk Instagram: @emporia_patterns                   : @emporia_designer                   : @lottejamiesoncrafts Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clair and Charlotte from Emporia Patterns 00:10 Early sewing stories and childhood influences 00:14 Clair's background in costume and clothing technology 00:16 The growth of the fabric shop and pattern business 00:17 Impact of COVID and online community support 00:21 Business challenges and fabric sale during tough times 00:27 Moving from shop to office and back to home 00:34 The importance of honesty and sharing struggles 00:54 Pattern development process and creative collaboration 01:02 The role of the Great British Sewing Bee and community 01:25 Favourite patterns and design inspirations 01:27 Future plans and hopes for Emporia Patterns

  5. Sep 23

    Banker, Tailor, Teacher, Guy - Neil O'Dwyer on Sewing, Tailoring and The Art of Changing Career

    Send us Fan Mail Neil O’Dwyer has had anything but a conventional career. In this episode of The Sewing Social, Neil shares his unconventional journey from banking to tailoring, teaching and storytelling, and the unexpected role that sewing has played along the way. We talk about what first drew Neil to tailoring and sewing, making a career change later in life, and how a series of unexpected opportunities led him from one career to the next. From working in banking to becoming a tailor, making lingerie for strippers, working as a film extra and eventually teaching maths and sewing, Neil’s career has taken some surprising turns. Neil also talks about his storytelling show, Banker, Tailor, Teacher, Guy, and the experiences that inspired it. We explore creativity, learning new skills, changing careers and saying yes to opportunities, even when you don't know exactly where they might lead. It's a conversation about work, sewing, creativity and finding your way — with a reminder that there isn't necessarily one right career path, and that it's never too late to learn something new or take things in a completely different direction. Key Topics:  Neil’s diverse career journey from banking to tailoring to teaching and storytellingThe importance of saying yes to opportunities and embracing changeHow creativity can be a lifelong pursuit and a career pathExperiences at Saville Row and the impact on Neil’s skillsUsing storytelling to inspire students and share life lessonsNeil’s involvement in Edinburgh Fringe and clown coursesThe value of networking and connections in career developmentAdvice for those considering career changes and pursuing passions 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 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 Guest Details:  Instagram: @uphereimalreadythere                     @bankertailorteacherguy Substack: Career Escapism Chapters 00:00 Neil’s diverse career journey from banking to storytelling 01:53 The leap from banking to tailoring inspired by a friend 03:55 Training at Newham College and working on Savile Row 06:02 Experiences working at Savile Row and self-training 08:07 Transitioning from tailoring to film and fashion projects 09:57 Storytelling at Edinburgh Fringe and performing on stage 11:53 The importance of saying yes and embracing new experiences 13:54 Neil’s advice for career changers and lifelong learning 15:50 Using storytelling to inspire students and share life lessons 18:02 Balancing creativity with teaching and everyday life 19:54 Upcoming projects and future plans for Neil

  6. Sep 16

    Sustainable Sewing and Fabric Destashing with Caroline Bacle of Destasher

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when a passion for sewing grows into a platform designed to help sewists make more sustainable choices? In this episode of The Sewing Social, Caroline Bacle joins us to talk about her journey from Montreal to London, her love of sewing and dressmaking, and the story behind Destasher - a platform created to help sewists give unwanted fabrics, sewing patterns, haberdashery and other sewing supplies a second life. Caroline shares how her own experiences as a sewist led her to think differently about the amount of fabric and sewing supplies we accumulate, and how Destasher has grown into a community where sewists can buy, sell, share and discover materials that might otherwise go unused. We chat about sustainable sewing, slow fashion, fabric destashing and the sewing community, as well as the challenges of building a platform around a community of people who love to make their own clothes. In this episode, we talk about: Caroline's journey from Montreal to LondonHow she discovered her passion for sewing and dressmakingThe story behind DestasherWhy sewists end up with so much fabric and sewing stashFabric destashing and giving unwanted materials a second lifeThe connection between sewing, slow fashion and conscious consumptionBuilding a community around sewing and makingThe challenges of creating a platform for the sewing communityWhy sharing resources can be an important part of more sustainable sewingWhat she has learned from the sewing community along the wayThe future of Destasher and where Caroline hopes to take it next 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 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 Guest Details:  Instagram: @destasher_uk Website: www.destasher.co.uk Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Caroline Bacle and her sewing journey 00:52 How lockdown sparked Caroline’s passion for sewing 02:03 The story behind Destasher and its community focus 02:59 Upcoming sewing events and initiatives 04:09 Tips for managing your sewing stash 05:06 The importance of sustainability and storytelling in textiles 06:00 Caroline’s future vision for Destasher 07:04 Closing thoughts and how to connect with Caroline

  7. Sep 9

    From Civil Service to Sewing: Lydia Finney on Fabric Printing and the Art of Making

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Sewing Social, Lydia Finney (known online as "Lovely Lydia") talks about her journey into fabric printing, dressmaking and making clothes, exploring the technical skills and creative processes behind her work. We chat about combining traditional sewing and textile techniques with modern creativity, developing confidence as a maker, and why craft should be accessible and inclusive to everyone - whatever your experience or skill level. From fabric design and printing to dressmaking and the realities of learning new sewing skills, Lydia shares what she has discovered along the way and what continues to inspire her as a maker. Whether you're new to sewing, an experienced dressmaker, or simply interested in fabric and textiles, this episode is full of inspiration and practical insight. Key Topics:  Lydia's transition from civil service to fabric printing and dressmakingThe importance of technical skills in sewing and printingHow to combine fabric printing with garment makingThe role of colour and pattern in personal styleOpportunities for craft education and inclusivity in the communityThe process of lino and woodblock printing for textilesUpcycling garments with fabric printingOvercoming self-doubt and celebrating craft achievements 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 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 Guest Details:  Instagram: @lovely_._lydia                   : @she_who_sews Website: www.lovelylydia.co.uk Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Lydia Finney and her creative background 04:05 Discovering vintage Bernina and early sewing experiences 07:22 The technical complexity of dressmaking and its artistry 08:08 The reality of making mistakes and sharing imperfect work 09:23 The importance of craftsmanship in mass-produced clothing 11:22 Lydia's career before craft and her move to Suffolk 12:47 Everyone's creative potential and opportunities for craft 14:02 The accessibility of lino and block printing for beginners 15:52 Tools and techniques for lino and woodblock printing 16:39 The joy of teaching and inspiring all ages in craft 17:25 Access to craft 20:58 Lydia's first lino design and inspiration from Suffolk 22:28 Creating unique garments with fabric printing 24:28 Combining fabric printing with sewing for custom designs 27:24 Fixing fabric paint and tools for printing 28:34 The process of creating lino designs and tools needed 31:47 Safety tips for lino carving and craft tools 32:36 Natural fabrics versus synthetics for printing 33:25 The role of colour in Lydia's creative life 34:45 Upcoming projects and workshops with Lydia

  8. Sep 2

    From Tailoring to Sewing on TV: David Olaniyi's Dress The Nation Journey

    Send us Fan Mail David Olaniyi joins The Sewing Social Podcast to share the story behind his journey from dance to fashion and tailoring, and how his creative background has shaped the way he designs today. David talks openly about his experience on Dress the Nation with Marks & Spencer, the challenges of putting his tailoring skills to the test, and what it takes to build a career in the fashion industry. Known for blending streetwear with traditional tailoring, David also takes us behind the scenes of his creative process - from developing ideas and finding his signature style to navigating the realities of working as a tailor and designer. In this episode, we explore tailoring, menswear, and fashion design, as David shares what he’s learned so far and where he wants to take his craft next. Key Topics:  David's transition from dance to tailoringHis experience on Dress the Nation and winning the competitionThe concept of structured streetwear blending tailoring and street styleThe process of designing and creating a collection for Marks and Spencer'sInspiration from Japanese fashion and travel influencesThe importance of technical skills like tailoring in streetwear designFuture plans including moving to Japan for 3 months and learning new techniquesThe role of confidence and spontaneity in creative success Follow me:  Website: http://www.thedalythreadstudio - website will soon be live!  I will be teaching anyone who wants to learn how to sew in the Nottingham area and beyond!  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 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 Guest Details: Website: https://www.davidolaniyi.co.uk Instagram: @bydavidolaniyi Tiktok: @bydavidolaniyi Bespoke Tailoring Course - Newham College: https://newham.ac.uk/course/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/ Kapital - Pillow Bomber Jacket:  https://www.kapital.jp/ Instagram: @kapitalglobal Chapters 00:00 Introduction and David’s background in dance and fashion 01:01 How David’s dance career led to an interest in tailoring 02:27 Learning to sew and construct garments from wardrobe staff 04:06 Transition from dance to professional tailoring and fashion 05:34 Winning Dress the Nation and the application process 10:37 The intense process of TV casting and experience on the show 11:46 Lessons learned from winning the competition 13:50 Favorite pieces from the show and designing for the final collection 16:51 Post-show career, working at Marks and Spencer’s, and design philosophy 28:43 Inspiration sources including travel and Japanese fashion 30:01 Deconstructing a Japanese jacket and future plans 32:23 Game of this or that: style preferences and techniques 34:26 Where to find David online and upcoming projects

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4.2
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Gemma Daly
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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