The Sewing Social

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

  1. 6D AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. JAN 14

    A Lifetime of Sewing: Susan Young on Creativity, Colour and Community

    Send a text In this inspiring episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Susan Young, a highly respected figure in the sewing community, to explore her lifelong passion for sewing and fashion.  Sue shares her journey from learning to sew as a child to building a successful career in bridal wear, education, and community leadership. Throughout the conversation, Sue reflects on her love of teaching sewing skills, the importance of accurate fabric handling, and why technical knowledge is just as vital as creativity.  She also celebrates the power of colour in fashion and speaks candidly about the need for greater visibility and representation of older women within the modern sewing world. Listeners will enjoy hearing about Sue's work with sewing publications, her role in organising local sewing groups, and the excitement and community spirit behind hosting Frocktails events.  Packed with practical sewing tips, industry insight, and heartfelt encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for dressmakers, textile lovers, and sewing enthusiasts of all levels. Key Takeaways: Sue's sewing journey began in childhood, fueled by curiosity.Accurate cutting is crucial for successful sewing projects.Embracing colour can enhance personal style and confidence.Visibility for older women in the sewing community is essential.Local sewing groups foster connection and support among sewists.Frocktails events celebrate the sewing community and creativity.Respect for fabric is important, regardless of cost.Personal style evolves with confidence and experience.Sewing allows for individual expression and creativity. 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: @susanyoungsewing                      @londonfrocktails - Tickets go live on 31/01/26! Blog: https://susanyoungsewing.wordpress.com Chapters 00:00 The Sewing Journey Begins 02:37 Career Path in Sewing 08:36 Embracing Colour and Personal Style 15:31 Visibility and Representation in Sewing 20:36 Community Connections and Socials 29:42 The Power of In-Person Connections 30:36 Organising Frocktails Events 33:15 Success and Challenges of Frocktails 34:59 Future Plans for Frocktails 36:52 Personal Style and Sewing Preferences 41:48 Sewing for Loved Ones 44:32 This or That: Fun Rapid Fire Questions 53:13 Thready Set Go discount code

    55 min

  7. JAN 7

    Stitching Stories: Mark Francis on the Sewing Bee, Mental Health and Doctor Who Fashion

    Send a text In this episode of The Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Mark Francis, a fan-favourite contestant from The Great British Sewing Bee, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, confidence and cloth.  Mark traces his sewing journey from early experiments at school to the national spotlight of the Sewing Bee, reflecting on the challenges of the competition and how the experience shaped both his self-belief and creative career. The conversation explores the powerful connection between sewing and mental health, with Mark sharing how making became a source of calm, expression and resilience.  He also dives into his love of Doctor Who fashion, discussing how sci-fi costume and storytelling influence his designs.  Looking ahead, Mark reveals his future plans in the sewing world, including pattern design, commissions and creative projects, making this episode a must-listen for sewing enthusiasts, makers and fans of thoughtful, feel-good creativity. Key Takeaways:  Mark Francis was a contestant on the Great British Sewing Bee in 2020.His interest in sewing began in school during home economics classes.Mark's husband Clive reignited his interest in sewing while preparing for their wedding.Sewing education in schools is often underfunded and lacks resources.Mark has been involved in community projects to teach sewing in underprivileged schools.He applied to the Sewing Bee after encouragement from Clive, despite only sewing for two years.The Sewing Bee experience helped boost Mark's confidence in his sewing skills.Mark's sewing patterns are inspired by his personal makes and the lack of menswear options.Doctor Who has significantly influenced Mark's design style and patterns.Mark continues to work on commissions and plans to teach and share his experiences at various events. 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: www.sewmarkfrancis.com Instagram: @sewmarkfrancis Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mark Francis and His Sewing Journey 08:01 The Impact of Sewing Bee on Mark's Life 16:46 Mental Health and Sewing: A Personal Perspective 23:40 Mark's Pattern Business and Future Aspirations 25:56 Networking and New Ventures in Sewing 27:49 Doctor Who: A Lifelong Influence on Design 30:16 The Evolution of Doctor Who's Wardrobe 33:29 Current Projects and Future Plans 36:24 The Role of Social Media in Creative Work 44:19 Upcycling and Repurposing: A Sustainable Approach 46:27 Where to Find Mark: Connecting with the Community 47:18 Outro

    48 min

  8. 12/10/2025

    The Value of Handmade and Shopping Second Hand with Multi Crafter Paige Joanna

    Send a text In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with sewing and upcycling creator Paige Joanna Watts for an inspiring deep-dive into handmade fashion, creativity, and building a craft-based business.  Paige shares how she fell in love with sewing, why valuing handmade clothing matters, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes at Friday Pattern Company.  We chat about her passion for thrifting and creative upcycling, the projects she’s most excited about right now, and the launch of her adorable doll-making pattern brand, Podgekins.  Paige also offers practical advice for sewists, upcyclers, and aspiring creative entrepreneurs looking to turn their craft into a sustainable business.  Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with sewing insights, upcycling ideas, and handmade business tips. Key Takeaways: Paige's love for sewing began with her grandmother's influence.She emphasises the importance of valuing handmade items.Working for Friday Pattern Company allows her to combine her passions.Thrifting is a treasure hunt that promotes sustainable fashion.Upcycling is a creative outlet for Paige, especially with jackets.Launching Podgekins was a passion project with the idea born during lockdown.She encourages others to share their creative journeys online.Paige believes in charging what you're worth as a maker.Future projects include more upcycled items and doll patterns. 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: @paigejoannaa Youtube: @paigejoannaa Pinterest: @paigejoanna Email: paige@paigejoanna.co.uk Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the last show of the year! 01:27 Paige's Sewing Journey 04:35 The Value of Handmade Items 08:09 Working with Friday Pattern Company 13:00 The Importance of Secondhand Shopping 15:36 Thrift Flips and Upcycling Projects 18:15 Exploring Live Shopping Platforms 19:51 Finding Inspiration in Creativity 21:06 Evolving Personal Style 22:32 Launching a Doll Sewing Pattern Business 27:42 Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs 31:04 Upcoming Projects and Market Preparations 32:37 Fun This or That Game 36:00 Outro

    37 min
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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
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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