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. 6d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Jul 29

    Designing Sewing Patterns for Men & Boys with Jane Harbison - Creativity, Dressmaking & Handmade Style

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Jane Harbison, founder of Jane Harbison Design, to explore her inspiring journey into the world of dressmaking, sewing pattern design and creative entrepreneurship.  Jane shares how she followed her passion for sewing, identified a gap in the market for men's and boys' sewing patterns, and built a business around helping more people enjoy making their own clothes. We chat about the importance of the creative process, why sewing is about so much more than the finished garment, and how handmade projects can become meaningful gifts that tell a story.  Jane also shares her thoughts on designing accessible sewing patterns, nurturing creativity and building confidence through making. Whether you're interested in dressmaking, sewing patterns for men and boys, handmade gifts, or you're dreaming of turning your creative hobby into a business, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice and thoughtful conversation. In this episode, we discuss: Jane's journey from accounting to sewing pattern designer.Creating sewing patterns for men and boys.Finding gaps in the sewing pattern market.The joy of the creative process and handmade sewing.Building a creative business around your passion.Why handmade garments and gifts tell a unique story. 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: Jane Harbison Design - https://janeharbison.com.au/  Instagram: @JaneHarbisonDesign  Pinterest: Jane Harbison Design - https://au.pinterest.com/janeharbison/ Skool: The Pocket Square Club - https://www.skool.com/the-pocket-square-club-3733/about?sc=1 YouTube: Jane Harbison Design - https://www.youtube.com/@janeharbisondesignau Creative Process document:  https://janeharbison.com.au/blogs/puckerup-sewing-blog/how-to-give-gifts-that-speak-their-love-languages Other Information:  Destasher Summer Destash event - https://www.destasher.co.uk/blog/summer-stash-reset

  7. Jul 22

    Mastering Pattern Cutting: Helen Shine of Dot n Cross on Dressmaking, Fit and High End Fashion

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to create beautifully fitting garments?  In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Helen Shine, an expert pattern cutter whose impressive career has seen her work with renowned fashion brands including Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen and many more. Helen shares her journey from the world of high-end fashion to running her own pattern cutting workshops, sewing retreats and dressmaking courses in Cornwall. We explore the art of pattern cutting, why achieving a great fit is about so much more than standard sizing, and how understanding garment construction can transform your sewing. We also discuss sustainable fashion, creating clothes that are made to last, and Helen's specialist work designing bespoke wedding dress patterns, helping brides bring their dream gowns to life. Whether you're passionate about dressmaking, sewing your own clothes, pattern cutting or improving the fit of your handmade wardrobe, this episode is packed with inspiration, expert advice and practical insights. In this episode, we discuss: Helen's career working with leading fashion brands, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen.The fundamentals of pattern cutting and garment construction.Why fit is the key to creating clothes you'll love to wear.Sustainable fashion and making garments that last.Pattern cutting workshops and sewing retreats in Cornwall.Designing bespoke wedding dress patterns and bridal wear. 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.dotncross.com Instagram: @dot.n.cross Links:  Dot n Cross Pattern Cutting Retreats in Cornwall: https://dotncross.com/retreats - I forgot to mention that the retreat location is a 15 minutes taxi journey from Penzance train station, which has direct links to many of the major cities.1-1 Wedding dress workshop: https://dotncross.com/make-your-own-wedding-dress-classGroup sewing and pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/group-sewing-classes-cornwall1-1 pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/pattern-cutting-workshopsLink to Vogue article about the Cate Blanchett dress, designed by Mary Katrantzou: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/cate-blanchetts-mary-katrantzou-cannes-dress Chapters:  00:10 Helen Shine: A Journey into Pattern Cutting 04:48 Education and Early Career in Fashion 10:07 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design 10:18 Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching 15:00 Establishing Dot and Cross: Workshops and Community 17:51 Exploring Unique Retreats in Cornwall 23:20 In-Depth Wedding Dress Pattern Cutting Classes 27:42 The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society 31:57 The Dress for Cate Blanchett 34:34 Engineering Prints in Fashion 35:50 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design 36:04 Future Plans and Exciting Developments 41:31 Join my Substack

  8. Jul 15

    From Family Fabric Shop to Online Sewing Success with Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to grow a family fabric business that has stood the test of time? In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics to chat about her family's remarkable 26-year journey in the fabric industry.  From running a traditional fabric shop to embracing the world of online retail, Kayleigh shares how the business has evolved while staying true to its passion for quality fabrics and exceptional customer service. We also discuss the importance of authenticity on social media, the incredible community that surrounds sewing, and why encouraging new sewists is so important to her.  Along the way, Kayleigh shares the touching story behind her work creating tiny stockings for babies in neonatal units, and how sewing can be a powerful way to bring comfort and connection. Whether you're looking for tips on choosing dressmaking fabrics, curious about the story behind one of the UK's best-loved fabric shops, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring conversations about creativity, community and sewing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. In this episode, we discuss: The story behind 1st For Fabrics and its 26-year family history.How the fabric industry has changed over the years.Choosing the right dressmaking fabrics with confidence.Building an authentic presence on social media.Supporting new sewists and growing the sewing community.Kayleigh's inspiring neonatal stocking project.Creativity, community and the joy of sewing. 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.1stforfabrics.co.uk Instagram: @1stforfabrics Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh and First of Fabrics 02:13 The origins of the family business in the North East 04:23 Adapting to market changes and online sales 06:00 Advice for first-time sewists and beginners 11:52 The story behind bag kits and limited fabrics 15:01 Kayleigh's sewing journey and personal story 19:53 Charitable sewing: neonatal stockings for charity 22:05 Social media tips for small businesses 24:00 Upcoming plans and quick fire questions

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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
    71
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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