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. APR 8

    How Liz Built Flying Bobbins: From Fashion Industry to Sewing Business

    Send us Fan Mail This week on the show, I'm speaking to Liz from the small business Flying Bobbins.  Liz shares her inspiring journey from working in the fashion industry to building Flying Bobbins into a thriving sewing business.  In this episode, she opens up about the realities of transitioning from corporate fashion to running a creative small business, and what it really takes to turn a passion for sewing into a sustainable brand. She explores the importance of community in the sewing world, how connection and support can fuel creativity, and the role Flying Bobbins plays in bringing makers together.  Liz also shares honest insights into balancing creativity with the demands of everyday life, offering relatable advice for anyone juggling a business, hobbies, and personal commitments. Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast, a creative entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with practical tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and motivation to help you nurture your own creative journey. Key Takeaways:  Liz studied fashion design and worked in the fashion industry for many years before starting a family.When her children were born, Liz felt that she needed a job that gave her more work/life balance as she wanted to be there for her children.Flying Bobbins was created during the pandemic.Liz offers a sew along club as well as in person teaching and a range of sewing kits. 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: @flyingbobbins Website: www.flyingbobbins.com Youtube: Flying Bobbins Tutorials Facebook: Flying Bobbins VIP Group Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Liz and Flying Bobbins 01:06 The Journey of Learning to Sew 02:24 Education and Early Career in Fashion 04:57 Transitioning to Teaching and Home Dressmaking 07:00 Launching Flying Bobbins During the Pandemic 10:23 The Impact of Sewing on Mental Health 12:46 Reflections on the Fashion Industry and Fast Fashion 16:37 The Philosophy Behind Flying Bobbins 18:42 The Rewards of Teaching Sewing 21:42 The Supportive Sewing Community 22:57 The Power of Community in Creativity 25:23 The Sew Along Club: A New Approach to Learning 31:42 Balancing Business and Family Life 37:41 Future Aspirations and Personal Growth 42:29 Outro - tip on Ko-fi

    43 min

  2. APR 1

    Inside the Fabric Shop: Jenny Stitches on Sewing and Becoming a Creative Entrepreneur

    Send us Fan Mail *Trigger warning - Please note that this episode discusses baby loss, listen at your own discretion and please skip ahead if you need to. In this episode, Jenny Fazackerley of "Jenny Stitches" shares her journey from accountant to successful fabric shop owner and sewing studio founder in Cumbria.  She talks about starting a sewing business, navigating the challenges of creative entrepreneurship, and building a thriving sewing community.  Tune in for practical tips, small business insights, and plenty of sewing inspiration. Key Takeaways: Jenny grew up around sewing, so has been creative from a young age. She practiced as an accountant and then took a career break following the tragic loss of her baby daughter. During this time, Jenny decided to open a fabric shop following the closure of her local fabric shop. Jenny Stitches was born and has evolved from a market stall to a bricks and mortar store. Jenny discusses the highs and lows of small business 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 Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for first month free - SOCIALPOD10 Guest Details:  Instagram: @jennystitchesfabrics Facebook: Jenny Stitches Fabrics Website: www.jennystitches.co.uk Tiktok: @jennystitchesfabrics Chapters 00:00 Trigger Warning and Introduction to Jenny Stitches 00:37 Jenny's Sewing Journey 03:44 Career Transition from Accounting to Sewing (Skip this part if you need to!) 07:26 The Challenges of Running a Business 11:05 The Importance of Community in Sewing 12:37 Overcoming Business Challenges 15:51 A Week in the Life of Jenny Stitches 19:05 Balancing Creativity and Business 20:51 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 23:25 Celebrating Success and Future Plans 26:15 The Creative Process Behind New Designs 28:35 Quickfire Questions and Personal Preferences 30:38 Outro - tip on Ko-fi

    31 min

  3. MAR 25

    Traditional Upholstery and Sewing Cutting Board Innovation with Erica from Sew and Stow

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Erica shares her inspiring journey from police officer to skilled traditional upholsterer, transforming her career through creativity and craftsmanship.  She highlights her commitment to sustainable upholstery, using eco-friendly materials and preserving time-honoured techniques.  She also introduces the innovative Sew & Stow cutting board, designed to make fabric cutting easier, more efficient, and more precise for makers of all levels. Discover how Erica is building a purpose-driven craft business, championing sustainable sewing practices, and empowering others through hands-on upholstery courses and creative education. Key Takeaways:  Erica's career transitioned from British Telecom to the Police force, and then onto upholsteryShe emphasises the importance of eco-friendly and natural materials in upholsteryShe developed the Sew & Stow fabric cutting board from a board she had made for herself Erica talks about how craft and upholstery can aid mental health and well-beingErica explains her approach to teaching upholstery and empowering others 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:  Sew and Stow website:  https://sewandstow.co.uk Instagram: @sewandstow.uk Facebook: byericajane Discount code for listeners (£10 off a cutting board): Sewingsocialpod  Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10 Resources: Leanne Treadwell - Bristol Upholstery Collective - https://www.bristolupholsterycollective.co.uk Renee Hodson - Master Upholsterer - https://www.reneehodson.co.uk Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties 00:10 Erica's Journey into Sewing and Upholstery 02:22 Transition from Police Officer to Upholsterer 05:13 The Impact of Personal Loss and Finding Purpose 08:04 Traditional Upholstery Techniques and Materials 10:56 The Importance of Natural Materials in Upholstery 13:37 Teaching Upholstery and Community Engagement 16:37 Upholstery as a Therapeutic Craft 19:33 Challenges and Standout Projects in Upholstery 25:28 The Art of Upholstery: Techniques and Insights 28:04 Sewing Journey: From Upholstery to Fashion 30:21 Innovating the Cutting Board: The Sew and Stow Story 49:52 Sew and Stow: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Future Plans 56:33 Outro - Kofi

    57 min

  4. MAR 18

    Sewing Patterns, Fitting Advice and Retreats with Izzy from Izzo Sew Studio

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Izzy shares her inspiring journey from a career in landscape architecture to launching her own sewing business, Izzo Sew Studio.  She talks about how her passion for sewing grew into a platform that helps others build confidence in making and fitting their own clothes.  Izzy discusses the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, a more sustainable approach to fashion, and a way to connect with a supportive creative community. We also dive into her approach to garment fitting and pattern drafting, along with practical insights that can help sewists better understand their bodies and achieve clothes that truly fit.  Izzy shares what inspired her to start hosting sewing retreats, workshops, and socials, and how these events bring people together to learn, share skills, and enjoy sewing in a welcoming environment.  Whether you're just starting out or looking to develop your sewing skills further, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone interested in making their own wardrobe. 🧵✨ Key Takeaways: Izzy began her sewing journey in Nepal in the foothills of the Himalayas She qualified as a Landscape Architect but now runs her own business as a Pattern Designer and Fitting ExpertIzzy runs Izzo Sew Studio with her husband TimThey run several retreats across the country including The Lake District, The Peak District and Ascot.Izzy feels that making your own clothes is a reflection of who you are and repeatedly wearing your handmade wardrobe makes it sustainable. 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 - @izzosewstudio Website - https://www.izzosewstudio.com Facebook: Izzo Sew Studio New Beginner Bespoke Dressmaking Course: https://www.izzosewstudio.com/learn-to-sew Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Izzy and Izzo Sew Studio 00:43 Izzy's Sewing Beginnings 02:37 Career Transition to Sewing 08:26 A Day in the Life of Izzy 10:33 Benefits of Learning to Sew 14:32 Sewing Retreats: A Creative Escape 18:03 Personalised Guidance and Fitting Techniques 22:31 Sewing Social Days: Community and Connection 22:48 Sewing and Sustainability: A Perfect Match 24:17 Exciting Upcoming Events and Workshops 28:56 Fun and Games: This or That? 31:49 Outro

    32 min

  5. MAR 11

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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

  6. MAR 4

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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

  7. FEB 25

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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

  8. FEB 18

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

    Send us Fan Mail 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
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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
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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