The Sewing Social

Gemma Daly
  • 5.0 (1)
  • 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. 6D AGO

    Designing For Children: Sewing Patterns, Sustainability and Creativity with Becky from Pattern, Paper, Scissors

    Send a text 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 UniversityShe started her business Pattern Paper Scissors after she'd had her first childBecky talks about the importance of sustainable fashion and slow sewingShe gives some tips for carving out sewing time as a busy parent/busy personDesigning versatile, unisex, and practical kids' patterns is the heart of her businessShe balances multiple roles: pattern designer/editor, fabric seller, and business ownerBecky talks about the emotional and educational value of handmade clothing for children 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 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

    32 min

  2. MAR 4

    Sustainable Fashion, Reclaimed Materials and Neurodivergent Sewing Practice with Tali Thomason

    Send a text 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 8She enjoys both sewing and knitting She sources most of her fabrics from thrift shops or refashions other garmentsShe has written a book called Slow Stitch Style which focuses on putting together a capsule wardrobe using reclaimed materialsTali is neurodivergent and uses certain practices to ensure that she can enjoy her sewing and get the most out of her timeTali 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com 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

    39 min

  3. FEB 25

    A Great British Sewing Bee Champion: Caz on Confidence, Creativity and Having Fun with Sewing

    Send a text 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 ageShe made her own wedding dress and had a break from sewing for the next 25years!She had open heart surgery around the period of lockdownApplying for and being on the Sewing Bee was a joyous experience for herShe had a lot of fun with designing her makes for the show, even though she would say she wasn't a creative sewist before thisFollowing 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 sewingShe has spoken at several events, putting herself out of her comfort zoneCaz 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: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com 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

    40 min

  4. FEB 18

    Inside Stash Hub: How Yvette and Doug Built The Must Have Sewing Organiser App

    Send a text In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly sits down with Yvette – also known as Blossom Sandwich on Instagram – co-creator of Stash Hub, the must-have sewing organiser app for managing your fabric stash and projects. Yvette shares her refreshingly unconventional journey into sewing, which began with stitching tiny hammocks for her pet rats.  After discouraging experiences with sewing at school almost put her off for good, she rediscovered the craft on her own terms – becoming a passionate self-taught sewist and an active voice in the online sewing community. If you’ve ever struggled with fabric stash organisation, forgotten what patterns you own, or wanted a smarter way to plan your sewing projects, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiration. Whether you’re looking for sewing room organisation ideas, fabric inventory tips, or insight into the best sewing apps for sewists, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. 🧵✨ Key Takeaways: Yvette started sewing to create hammocks for her pet rats.Her initial experiences with sewing in school were negative.She found inspiration in the online sewing community.The Sew Fruity challenge encourages creativity and community involvement.Stash Hub was developed to help manage fabric stashes.The app aims to reduce overwhelm in the sewing process.Sustainability in sewing is a key focus for Yvette.The marketplace feature in Stash Hub allows for easy destashing.Yvette enjoys engaging with the sewing community through Stash Chats. 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 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10 Guest Details:  Instagram: @stash_hub                   : @blossomsandwich Website: www.stashhubapp.com You can download the Stash Hub app on the App Store or Play Store and use the code below to get the first month for free: Discount code: TSSP Chapters 00:00 Yvette's Sewing Journey Begins 00:46 From Pet Hammocks to Dressmaking 05:16 Self-Taught Sewing and Community Influence 10:22 The Importance of Community in Sewing 11:21 Sew Fruity Challenge and Community Engagement 15:30 The Birth of Stash Hub 21:05 Day-to-Day Operations and Team Dynamics 22:20 Addressing Common Stash Problems 24:35 Mindfulness and Sustainable Sewing 27:09 Marketplace and Destashing Features 28:14 Insights from Stash Chats 30:08 Future Developments for Stash Hub 32:34 Community Engagement and Events 34:31 Fun and Games: This or That? 39:03 Where to Find Yvette and Stash Hub 41:33 Stash hub discount code

    42 min

  5. FEB 11

    Sewing, Sustainable Fashion and Reinventing Your Career with Nicole Akong

    Send a text 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 ageShe grew up in Trinidad and Tobago, then studied in the USA before making her way to LondonShe believes that your own self belief should be "bullet proof"She's done several career pivots in her lifeBeing on the Great British Sewing Bee gave her renewed confidence in herselfShe now loves to work with charities as well as focusing on thrifting and upcycling 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 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10 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

    1h 21m

  6. FEB 4

    Sustainable Sewing and Community: Inside Bawn Textiles with Bevan O'Daly

    Send a text 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:  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  Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     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

    1h 13m

  7. JAN 28

    Dressmaking, Deadstock and Small Business Challenges with Harriet from Sew Me Sunshine

    Send a text 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                      @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  Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     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

    37 min

  8. JAN 21

    Colourful Sewing, Jumpsuits and Living with Arthritis - Jen Legg's Story

    Send a text 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:  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  Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     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

    30 min
See All (43)

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
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

You Might Also Like