The Sewing Social

Gemma Daly
  • 3.8 (6)
  • 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. 3h ago

    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: @thesorbelloedit 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

  2. 1d ago

    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: @thesorbelloedit 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

  3. 2d ago

    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: @thesorbelloedit 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

  4. Jun 10

    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

  5. Jun 3

    The Art of Pattern Drafting, Fit and Slow Sewing with Lisa Wagner of Draft.ed

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Lisa Wagner shares her remarkable journey from learning to sew alongside her mother and grandmother in Australia to becoming a couture dressmaker, pattern drafting educator, and founder of Draft.ed. We explore the value of skills passed down through generations, why fit is about so much more than measurements, and how learning to draft your own patterns can transform your confidence as a sewist.  Lisa also shares insights from decades spent designing bespoke garments and explains how her latest project, Draft.ed, is making personalised sewing blocks more accessible to home sewists around the world. A thoughtful conversation about craftsmanship, creativity, slow sewing, and the enduring power of making clothes that truly fit. Key Takeaways: Lisa explains how she can still vividly see her Grandmother's hands teaching her how to thread a needle and hand sew - she explains the importance of connection and passing skills down from generation to generation. Lisa feels that the process of sewing well fitting garments should be a slow process, as it's important to make it well and make it right.She's worked across many industries from project management to costume design, and wedding couture, but now she has developed a tool for sewists to input their measurements and generate a pattern block bespoke to their body. 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: @lisawagnerlondon                      @draftedsewingpatterns Website: www.lisawagnerlondon.com                  www.draft-ed.com Discount Code: SEWSOCIALPOD for 50% off a pattern block 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 Lisa Wagner and her sewing journey 00:39 The significance of passing down sewing skills through generations 07:34 The role of sewing in identity and wellbeing 20:26 Introduction to Draft.ed and its purpose 31:17 How to measure for perfect trouser fit 44:25 The process of pattern fitting and adjustments 48:33 The creative process in pattern drafting 48:34 Discount code Winners of the One Year Giveaway!!! Trina's Fun Box - Sew and Stow BoardCiao Linda Sews - Oliso IronAnglomist - A pack of Aurifil ThreadsKoekenutsel - A pack of Aurifil ThreadsLyndyloulou1 - £25 Sew Essential VoucherNictwit25 - A PDF pattern of your choice from Izzo Sew Studio Congratulations to all the lovely winners!

    49 min

  6. May 20

    Matchy Matchy Sewing Club on Scrap Sewing, Creativity & Beginner-Friendly Patterns

    Send us Fan Mail This week, Amy and Theresa from Matchy Matchy Sewing Club share their journey from passionate sewists to successful sewing pattern designers, and how they’ve built a brand centred around creativity, sustainability, and approachable garment sewing.  In this episode, we talk about designing beginner-friendly sewing patterns, embracing experimentation, and their “scrap theory” approach to reducing waste and rethinking fabric offcuts.  We also discuss the evolution of modern sewing culture, personal style, and their exciting plans for a new creative retail space in California. Key takeaways:  Amy and Theresa discuss their journey from sewing hobbyists to independent sewing pattern designers. They discuss the idea behind “scrap theory” and creative ways to reduce fabric waste in sewing. Matchy Matchy Sewing Club are known for designing beginner friendly sewing patterns that encourage confidence and experimentation. They are working towards building an inclusive sewing community through both online connection and an in-person creative space. They also love to create cohesive fabric collections and inspire sewists to explore personal style creatively. Both Amy and Theresa feel that sewing should feel approachable, playful, and free from perfectionism. 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.matchymatchysewingclub.com Instagram: @matchymatchysewingclub 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 Matchy Matchy Sewing Club 00:50 The Journey into Sewing 03:32 From Hobby to Business 06:00 Designing Patterns: The Process 10:53 The Philosophy of Matchy Matchy 14:49 Sustainability and Creativity in Sewing 16:06 Understanding Scrap Theory 19:17 Encouraging Playfulness in Sewing 19:22 Introduction to Beginner-Friendly Patterns 21:59 Breaking the Rules in Sewing 25:04 Designing Fabric Collections 28:48 A Day in the Life at Matchy Matchy 31:25 Exciting Future Plans for Matchy Matchy 33:41 Fun Quickfire Game: This or That 36:07 Giveaway details

    37 min

  7. May 13

    How Sewing Shapes Confidence and Identity with Lucy from Sew Essential

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Lucy from Sew Essential shares her journey from passionate home sewist to running one of the UK’s best-known sewing businesses.  We talk about confidence, creativity, and how sewing can quietly shape the way we see ourselves.  Lucy reflects on the evolution of the sewing community, the pressure of perfection online, and why experimentation and “getting it wrong” are such important parts of the creative process.  A thoughtful conversation about sewing, identity, community, and the deeper value of making things by hand. Key Takeaways: Lucy began sewing a little later in life after Sew Essential was founded by her husband. Lucy thinks we shouldn't be afraid to make mistakes - it's how we learn best!She has developed lots of tutorials on the Sew Essential website and on her YouTube channel to help people get over barriers and get the most from their sewing.Lucy feels the role of community and sharing knowledge in sewing is so important and she finds it very rewarding. 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: https://www.sewessential.co.uk Instagram: @sewessentialuk YouTube: @sewessential Pinterest: Sewessentialuk Facebook: Sew Essential 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 Lucy’s Sewing Journey 05:20 The Impact of Sewing on Confidence and Mental Health 11:11 Overcoming Fear in Sewing 15:02 Essential Sewing Techniques and Tips 15:58 Revamping the SoEssential Website 19:38 The Rewards of Teaching Sewing 22:16 The Joy of Sewing and Personal Growth 25:04 Maintaining Your Sewing Machine 28:39 Exciting Developments at SoEssential 31:15 Fun and Games: This or That with Lucy 32:13 Introduction to the Podcast and Community Engagement 32:39 Closing Thoughts and Invitation to Join Substack

    33 min

  8. May 6

    How Sewing Became a Lifeline: Rebekah From The Gathered Seam, on Grief, Memory Keepsakes & Small Business

    Send us Fan Mail This week, Rebekah, also known as Sewno65 on Instagram, shares her journey from self-taught sewist to running her successful memory keepsake business, The Gathered Seam.  In this episode, we talk about her creative process, balancing sewing with family life, and the powerful role craft can play in navigating grief and personal growth.  A thoughtful conversation about sewing, storytelling, and the meaning behind what we make. Key Takeaways: Rebekah’s journey into sewing began after being inspired by The Great British Sewing Bee. Largely self-taught, she later took a few classes to build confidence and refine her skills.Before sewing became a bigger part of her life, she worked as an events manager. But while pregnant with her second child, she made the decision to step away from a high-stress career and focus on something more sustainable for her and her family.She went on to start her own small business, creating memory bears and blankets, alongside alterations and bespoke pieces.In 2023, after the sudden loss of her father, sewing became something much deeper, offering comfort, focus, and a way to process grief. Rebekah shares how craft can be both mindful and therapeutic, and how she continues to prioritise sewing even within a busy family life. 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: @sewno65                      @thegatheredseam Website: https://thegatheredseam.sumupstore.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewno65/ 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 The Journey into Sewing 04:04 Diving into Dressmaking 09:22 Personal Style and Fashion Choices 10:40 Finding Time for Sewing 14:04 Career Transition and Business Beginnings 18:23 Evolving Craft: From Personal to Professional 21:39 Teaching the Art of Sewing 25:32 The Journey to Counselling 26:41 Crafting Through Grief 29:59 The Mindfulness of Sewing 33:23 Balancing Business and Life 33.25 Join my Substack

    40 min
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Ratings & Reviews

3.8
out of 5
6 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
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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