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. 4D AGO

    The Art Of Quilting And Creative Events with Kat Molesworth

    Send us a text Join us this week for an inspiring conversation with Kat Molesworth — master quilter, creative event curator, and passionate maker.  Kat takes us through her journey from her early career in the creative industry to mastering the art of quilting. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her sewing journey, her work bringing creative communities together through events, and the joy she finds in every stitch.  Packed with insights, stories, and heartfelt advice, this episode is a must-listen for quilters, makers, and anyone inspired by creativity and community. Key Takeaways: Kat has a diverse background in creative industries.She transitioned from various jobs to focus on events for bloggers and creators.Community and connection through social media have been pivotal in her journey.Running thoughtful events can transform attendees' lives and businesses.Kat emphasises the importance of considering all attendees' needs at events.She is the youngest master quilter, showcasing her dedication to the craft.Her quilting style blends traditional and modern techniques.Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts is a significant milestone for her.Kat encourages aspiring quilters to have fun and make for loved ones.She highlights the undervaluation of handmade crafts and the need for makers to assert their worth. 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: @thatkat Tiktok: superthatkat Job role: Programming Coordinator for Immediate Live's Craft Portfolio Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kat Molesworth 01:39 Kat's Creative Career Journey 09:27 Event Planning in the Creative Industry 11:47 Kat's Sewing Journey and Quilting Beginnings 13:46 Becoming a Master Quilter 16:16 Quilting Styles and Inspirations 19:04 Exhibiting at the Festival of Quilts 23:46 Advice for Aspiring Quilters 26:36 Future Plans and Exciting Projects Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

    28 min

  2. OCT 29

    Sustainable Sewing, Conscious Choices and Small Business Life with Rosie from Sew Eco Fabrics

    Send us a text In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly chats with Rosie, the creative mind behind Sew Eco Fabrics — a beautiful small business championing sustainability in the sewing world. 🌿 Rosie opens up about her journey from retail to running her own eco fabric shop, the highs and hurdles of small business life, and why conscious consumer choices matter more than ever. She also shares practical sewing tips, insights into choosing sustainable fabrics, and an exciting look at what’s next for Sew Eco — from innovative subscription boxes to upcoming market appearances. It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation about creativity, community, and making a difference — one stitch at a time. 🧵✨ Key Takeaways:  Rosie's journey began in retail, leading to a passion for sustainability.She started her business to make a difference in the fabric industry.Sustainability means offering only eco-friendly fabrics to consumers.Small steps towards sustainability are better than none at all.Rosie emphasises the importance of reusing materials in sewing.She aims to create a magical experience with her seasonal surprise boxes.Future plans include more basic fabrics and subscription boxes.Rosie enjoys the community aspect of sewing events and pop-ups. 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:  Website: www.sewecofabrics.co.uk Instagram: @sewecofabrics Pinterest: Sew Eco Fabrics  Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Conversations 02:23 Rosie's Journey to Sustainable Fabrics 08:06 Challenges of Running a Small Business 11:32 Defining Sustainability in Business 15:19 Practical Sustainable Sewing Tips 17:02 Types of Eco-Friendly Fabrics Offered 19:43 Navigating Pricing and Quality in Fabric Retail 20:19 The Journey of a Self-Taught Seamstress 22:43 Patterns and Fabrics: Preferences and Challenges 25:04 Creating Unique Seasonal Surprise Boxes 28:37 Future Plans: Expanding the Business 30:22 Fun and Games: This or That with Rosie Affiliate Links: Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

    31 min

  3. OCT 22

    Bias Binding and Body Positivity with Laura from The Specky Seamstress

    Send us a text In this insightful episode of the Sewing Social podcast, we chat with Laura, also known as The Specky Seamstress, about her journey into sewing, growing her skills, and turning her passion into a thriving business specialising in colourful bias binding. Laura shares how sewing has supported her mental well-being, how she juggles her creative work with family life, and what exciting projects are on the horizon. We also dive into the challenges of promoting size inclusivity in the sewing world. Whether you're a curious beginner or a lifelong maker, this episode offers thoughtful conversation, relatable stories, and plenty of creative energy. Key Takeaways: Laura started sewing in 2018 after leaving a job in London.She found a passion for making her own clothes due to the availability of online resources.Laura enjoys making dresses with fun prints and simple designs.Laura's favourite dress pattern is a hack of the Cashmerette Montrose pattern.She started her YouTube channel in 2019 to share her sewing journey.The Specky Seamstress business was born out of a desire for pretty bias binding during the pandemic.Laura balances her sewing business with family life and emphasises the importance of mental health.She is excited about future projects, including a new swimsuit and raincoat. 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:  Website: www.thespeckyseamstress.com Instagram: @thespeckyseamstress                     @speckylaura Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Laura and Her Sewing Journey 08:05 The Evolution of Sewing Skills and Preferences 15:12 The Specky Seamstress Business and Bias Binding 21:53 Balancing Sewing, Family, and Mental Health 31:42 Future Plans and Projects 36:30 Fun This or That Game

    39 min

  4. OCT 15

    Sewing for Confidence and Community with Melanie Keane

    Send us a text This week, host Gemma Daly chats with the inspiring and down-to-earth Melanie Keane, a passionate sewist whose journey started with patchwork and led to something truly powerful. Mel opens up about how sewing became more than just a hobby—it became a way to build confidence, create community, and support vulnerable women through her incredible Lighthouse sewing project. 🌟 They also dive into the buzz around the Sew-Fizz-Teacated event (yes, there will be bubbles involved 🍾) and explore the joy that comes from making something with your own two hands. It’s a heartwarming, motivating, and feel-good conversation that’ll leave you reaching for your fabric stash—and maybe even dreaming up a sewing project of your own. 💬🪡 Tune in, get inspired, and sew along with us! Key Takeaways:  Sewing can boost personal confidence and creativity.Community projects can have a profound impact on individuals.Sewing offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment.Mel started sewing with patchwork during health challenges.The Sew-Fizz-Teacated event raises funds for community projects.Sewing projects can help vulnerable women connect and learn.Mel's sewing journey began with a basic machine from Hobbycraft.Sewing has allowed Mel to embrace bold patterns and colours.The Lighthouse project supports vulnerable women through 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 Guest details:  Instagram: @melaniekeane                   : @surreysews Challenge/afternoon tea event: #Sewfizzteacated25 The Lighthouse Community Project: https://www.the-lighthouse.info/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:10 The Journey into Sewing 06:52 Community Projects and Impact 13:01 The Therapeutic Nature of Sewing 13:44 Community Engagement Through Fundraising Events 15:11 The Sewfizzteacated Challenge: A Unique Fundraising Initiative 16:14 Encouraging Creativity and Community Projects 18:02 The Lighthouse: A Hub for Transformation 19:17 Upcoming Events and Future Plans 20:01 Fun and Games: This or That with Mel 24:45 Connecting with Mel: Where to Find Her 25:37 Outro

    26 min

  5. OCT 8

    "I Sewed Myself Happy" with Debbie from This Mummy Sews

    Send us a text *Please note there is a trigger warning on this episode* In this powerful episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, we sit down with Debbie Marsden as she shares her moving journey through grief and healing, and how sewing became her lifeline.  After the devastating loss of her baby, Debbie found solace at her sewing machine, sparking not only personal transformation but also a thriving business built around handmade children's clothing and supporting other mothers through sewing.  We dive into the emotional depths of her story, the strength found in community, and her inspiring vision for the future, from sustainable fashion for kids to helping more mums turn creativity into confidence and entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways: Sewing became a therapeutic outlet for Debbie, helping her cope with grief.She started her first business, Lolapops, from her kitchen table.Debbie emphasises the importance of community and support for mothers.Her sewing classes have transformed lives, providing emotional healing.Debbie's new venture, Handmade Loop, focuses on sustainability in children's clothing.She encourages mothers to prioritise self-care while managing their creative businesses.Debbie's journey illustrates the power of creativity in overcoming adversity.She aims to help other mothers start their own creative businesses.Debbie's story highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to foster connection.  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: @thismummysews                     @handmadeloop Website:  www.thismummysews.com www.handmadeloop.com Baby loss charities:  www.sands.org.uk www.tommys.org www.teddyswish.org Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning 00:55 Debbie's Journey into Sewing 02:03 The Impact of Baby Loss on Mental Health 07:17 Finding Purpose Through Sewing 09:53 Building a Creative Business 11:52 The Birth of Lolapops and Its Success 14:31 Transitioning to Teaching Sewing Classes 18:10 Launching the Members Club 20:56 Transformative Stories from Sewing Classes 24:05 The Importance of Community and Support 26:31 The Evolution of Handmade Loop 30:13 Sustainability in Children's Clothing 32:27 Future Plans and Aspirations 35:00 Advice for New Entrepreneurs 38:51 Fun Quickfire Round 42:38 Where to Find Debbie

    45 min

  6. OCT 1

    Why Sewing Matters: Tony Rea Talks Mental Health, Community and Creativity

    Send us a text In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Tony Rea — a self-taught sewist who picked up a needle and thread at age 50 and stitched his way to the Sewing Bee final.  Tony shares how sewing became not just a creative outlet, but a therapeutic lifeline, opening doors he never imagined. From behind-the-scenes moments on the show to his bold personal style, Tony talks about the joy of making, and why he’s on a mission to get more men sewing. Plus, he gives us a glimpse into what’s next — from hosting workshops to building stronger creative communities. It’s a reminder that creativity can take us in unexpected directions — and sometimes, all it takes is a stitch to get started. Key Takeaways: Tony started sewing at the age of 50 and is entirely self-taught.He views sewing as a form of engineering, following patterns like blueprints.The Sewing Bee experience was intense but rewarding, leading to personal growth.Sewing serves as a therapeutic outlet, promoting mental well-being.Tony is passionate about encouraging men to take up sewing as a hobby.He has a strong interest in refashioning items and zero waste practices.Tony's favourite makes from the Sewing Bee were the dress from Children’s week and the challenge based around Surrealist Art.He values the lessons learned from judges on the Sewing Bee, especially about sleeves and patterns.Tony enjoys teaching workshops and sharing his love for sewing with others.He believes in keeping his hobby separate from work to maintain his passion.  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: @Tonyr.makerWebsite: menmakers.co.ukThe Tony Shirt pattern: Emporia Patterns (https://emporia-fabric.co.uk)Mind - www.mind.org.ukCALM - www.thecalmzone.net Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Tony's Sewing Story 05:59 From Hobby to Competition: Joining the Sewing Bee 10:29 The Intense Experience of the Sewing Bee 13:18 Sewing and Mental Health: A Therapeutic Outlet 17:45 Proud Moments: Favourite Makes and Challenges 21:07 Lessons from the Judges: Insights and Advice 24:00 Life After the Sewing Bee: Opportunities and Growth 30:21 Teaching and Workshops: Sharing the Passion 32:13 Sustainable Sewing: Zero Waste and Upcycling 36:13 Personal Style: Influences and Inspirations 38:21 Future Plans: What's Next for Tony?

    40 min

  7. SEP 24

    Exploring Natural Dyes and Textile Art with Jess Chan

    Send us a text In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, Gemma Daly sits down with textile designer and natural dye expert Jess Chan for a vibrant conversation full of creativity and inspiration.  Jess opens up about her artistic journey, from the sparks that first ignited her passion to the path that led her to teaching and working with naturally dyed textiles.  She dives into the beauty and complexity of natural dyes, busts some common myths, and explains how she thoughtfully sources her materials.  Jess also shares stories from her eye-opening artist residency in Mexico, how she juggles life as a maker and entrepreneur, and offers thoughtful advice for anyone curious about stepping into the world of natural dyeing. Key Takeaways:  Jess Chan is the founder and designer of Jess Chan Textiles, specialising in naturally dyed textiles.Her creative journey began with a love for drawing and silkscreen printing.Jess studied printed textiles and surface pattern design at Leeds College of Art and natural dyes at Chelsea College of Art.She enjoys the methodical nature of dyeing and the element of surprise it brings.Natural dyes can produce a wide range of colours, including vibrant pinks and earthy tones.Jess forages for local plants like Buddleia, nettles and walnuts for her dyeing process.Common misconceptions about natural dyes include the belief that they are only "muddy" colours and not colourfast.Silk and wool are her preferred fabrics for dyeing due to their beautiful results.Jess teaches silkscreen printing and natural dyeing at Loughborough University.Her artist residency in Mexico provided her with in-depth training in traditional dyeing methods. 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:  Website: www.jesschantextiles.com Instagram: @jesschantextiles In person events coming up:  Paperdolls Handmade (Digbeth, Birmingham) 29th-30th NovemberCraft Fair Contemporary (Nottingham) 5th-7th DecemberCraft Fox Market (Kings Cross, London) 13th DecemberWinterfolk Festive Market (Nottingham) 14th December Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Jess Chan and Her Journey 03:41 Exploring Natural Dyes and Their Unique Qualities 08:46 Inspiration and Seasonal Influences in Design 14:17 Common Misconceptions About Natural Dyes 18:49 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge in Textiles 22:01 Artist Residency in Mexico: A Transformative Experience 27:46 A Week in the Life of Jess Chan 30:09 Product Offerings and Future Aspirations 33:58 Getting Started with Natural Dyeing 38:01 Fun This or That Game

    37 min

  8. SEP 17

    From Sewing Bee to Sewing Boss with Jen Hogg from Jenerates

    Send us a text In this episode of The Sewing Social, host Gemma sits down with Jen — a self-taught sewist, small business owner, and familiar face from The Great British Sewing Bee.  Jen shares her inspiring journey from learning to sew at home to building a thriving business rooted in creativity, innovation, and sustainable values. Together, they explore the realities of competing on national TV, the challenges and joys of running a handmade business, and the power of community in the sewing world.  Jen also introduces her line of thoughtfully designed sewing tools — created to solve real problems while supporting a more sustainable approach to making. Whether you're passionate about slow fashion, love clever sewing hacks, or just want a peek behind the seams, this episode offers fresh insight, inspiration, and practical tips from a maker who’s redefining what it means to sew with purpose. Key Takeaways Jen learned to sew from her grandmother and through trial and error.Mistakes in sewing are valuable learning experiences.Jen enjoys the engineering aspect of the creative process.Her business started organically after creating a useful sewing tool.Sustainability and social responsibility are key values in her business.The sewing community is supportive and collaborative.Jen's innovative tools have had a positive impact on sewing practices.She enjoys using surplus fabric for her projects.Jen loves to use charity shops and factory surplus for sourcing fabric.Jen sews primarily for herself but also for her family. 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: Website: www.jenhogg.co.uk Instagram: @jenerates Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jen and Her Sewing Journey 02:57 Exploring Jen's Creative Background and Skills 07:52 Transitioning from Law to Sewing Business 11:44 The Experience of Being on The Sewing Bee 14:05 The Importance of Community in Sewing 17:31 Innovative Sewing Tools and Their Impact 23:59 Personal Sewing Projects and Sustainability 28:38 Fun Rapid-Fire Questions with Jen

    32 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
    2K
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Sewing Social
  • Show Website
    The Sewing Social

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