Helen Wilkinson and Caroline Somos host Love to Sew, a fun weekly podcast about making clothes, sewing community, and small business. They talk about their passion for sewing a handmade wardrobe and their daily lives as creative entrepreneurs. Listen to interviews with indie business owners and inspiring sewists who totally understand your obsession with sewing.
The podcast Love to Sew Podcast is created by Caroline Somos & Helen Wilkinson : Sewing Enthusiasts and Entrepreneurs. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
This episode is all about a lesser-known fiber: hemp! It’s super environmentally friendly, breathable, antibacterial, and has great body and texture. We talk a bit about hemp’s long history, how it goes from plant to fabric, and what to sew with it.
This episode is like a mini sewing challenge! We each sewed a skort and we discuss it for the first time on the pod. We chat about the patterns and fabrics we chose for our skorts, our experiences sewing them up, and how we wear them!
We interview Christine Millar, aka Sewstine! She talks to us about her stunning historical costumes, from drafting the patterns to designing and machine embroidering the sumptuous fabrics.
Ease is the extra length and width that pattern designers add so that you can move in your clothes. In this episode, we talk about how ease works and how to figure out the amount of ease that YOU like. It’s a game-changer for making clothes that fit! We also answer a listener question about grading between sizes vs. pattern adjustments.
In this episode, we’re reacting to rising fashion trends for spring 2025! Whether we love ‘em or hate ‘em, we’re gonna tell you how you can incorporate them into your me-mades.
We interview Brandon Hayden, a pattern designer, sewing teacher, and content creator who makes menswear with bold fabrics and cool details. He wants to empower sewists to build their skills and express themselves!
We’re back with the first episode of the spring 2025 season! We chat about our sewing machines - the ones we learned on, the ones we have today, and the ones we want in the future. Plus: we catch up about what we did on our winter break, name our fave sewing machine features and pet peeves, and share what our machines are named!
We’re bringing this mini-episode out from behind the paywall as a treat for you! It was originally released in September 2024.
This mini-episode is about bread-and-butter sewing techniques that reduce bulk. We review the basics of grading, trimming, and notching, plus some more advanced and unexpected techniques that will give you a great finish. Caroline and Helen learn a lot about each other in this episode…👀 Let us know: do you trim your seams every time, or only when the pattern instructs you to?
If you would like access to a new mini-episode every month, plus our back catalogue, subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts or sign up to our Patreon at the “Love to Sew Superfan” level.
Thanks to our subscribers for your support. And thank you to all our listeners for listening!
This month’s bonus episode is free for all of our listeners! Helen chats about her holiday crafting: sewing, block printing, beading, and more. Caroline shares about her trip to NYC, what she’s been cooking lately, and the pair of me-made pants that pushed her out of her style comfort zone. Plus, new indie pattern releases, a fun fantasy book, and a game that would make a great gift for a sewist.
Quick wins are projects that refresh you and revive your sewjo. If you’re feeling uninspired and unmotivated to sew, have a listen! We go over what makes a project “quick” and what makes it a “win” so you can choose a project that will work for you. Plus, we share a bunch of specific ideas for quick win projects, including our personal faves!
We interview Rashida Coleman-Hale, fabric designer for Ruby Star Society! We talk to her about her journey to becoming a surface designer, her process for designing fabric collections, and her upcoming book.
We chat about sewing for others - what to make, what to avoid, and how to make sure that your experience is fun and fulfilling! We talk about the pros and cons of sewing for others, whether as a gift or as a favour. We share tips about fitting and choosing fabric. And we share OUR experiences sewing for our loved ones!
This episode is all about sewing garments, bags, and accessories for trips! We talk about the best fabrics, how to layer, and how to design a travel capsule. Plus: indie patterns for clothes that travel well, tips for sewing travel bags, and our memories of sewing for travel! We also answer a listener question about sewing lace with big holes and share listener feedback about sewing motivation.
We share tips and tricks for fiddly, persnickety, awkward, and complicated sewing techniques! We cover invisible zippers, darts, spaghetti straps, princess seams, and lots more. Plus, we share a listener’s experience with custom printed fabric and another listener’s sewing horror story.
In this episode, we interview low-waste pattern designer Cris Wood! We chat with her about how her patterns work, her design process, and what draws her to low-waste patternmaking. We also talk about her cool and colourful personal sewing.
We take a deep dive into TWO fabrics: corduroy AND velvet! Both of them have a fluffy, fuzzy, pile - but they’re not exactly the same. We chat about their history, how they’re made, and how to sew with them! Plus, we share pattern recommendations and answer your corduroy and velvet questions.
In this episode, we interview Michelle Thomas-Elder, a designer, tailor, and sewing teacher who owns The Kut Studios, a co-working space for designers in LA! Michelle has made custom pieces for celebrities and altered haute couture gowns - and recently, she released her first book. She has amazing stories to tell and a “Say Yes” attitude that we absolutely love.
In this episode, we talk about rising fashion trends for fall/winter ‘24/’25! We say how we REALLY feel about them and share some ideas for how to incorporate them into your me-mades. Let’s get trendy!
We interview Geri Berman, AKA Geri in Stitches! Geri’s social media accounts are the happiest place in the sewing world - she shows off her jaw-dropping projects, shares lots of tips, and demonstrates interesting techniques, all with her signature high energy and positivity. We talk to her about hand dyeing, sashiko, and more!
We talk about a bunch of popular jacket styles and give fabric advice, sewing tips, and indie pattern recommendations for each one! We also talk about unusual details you find on jacket patterns and play “Is it a Jacket?” Plus, a listener question about options for non-staticky office tops.
We interview Patrick Grant, Great British Sewing Bee judge, former director of Savile Row house Norton & Sons, and owner of sustainable brand Community Clothing! Patrick takes us behind the scenes of revered bespoke tailoring houses and discusses what it takes to become a Savile Row Tailor. We also chat with him about his journey to where he is now, buying fewer but better things, and the amazing vibe on the Sewing Bee set!
In this episode, we answer YOUR questions in another installment of the Sewing Help Line! We talk about cutting off-grain, sun-protective fabrics, how to adjust shorts that are two sizes too big, and lots more! Plus, we catch up about our summer adventures.
We want to hear you brag! In this episode, we share our listeners’ proudest sewing moments. And maybe we’ll brag a little bit, too! Plus, we answer a question about sewing machine servicing and share feedback from our Long-Time Sewists episode.
We interview quilting icon Suzy Williams, a.k.a. Suzy Quilts! We chat with her about designing quilt patterns and fabric collections, hear the surprising story of how she learned to sew, and get some great advice about overcoming perfectionism. Plus, we chat about the meditative magic of the quilting process.
How do you connect with other sewists in today’s social media landscape? In this episode, we talk about the benefits and drawbacks of the most popular social media platforms, give some tips and tricks for making sewing content that connects with people, and answer some listener questions about sewcializing.
We interview Sandeep Sandhu, the owner of the amazing fabric store Sister Mintaka! She tells us how she chooses her beautiful fabrics, what advice she would give to small business owners in the sewing space, and all about her personal sewing. She’s not only a fabric mogul, she’s a style icon!
This episode is about one of our very favourite fabrics - Indian block prints! We explore the rich history of these textiles, the process of making them, and where to buy them. We also share a bunch of pattern ideas and sewing tips so you can incorporate these dreamy, light, beautiful fabrics into your wardrobe! Plus, we answer a listener question about sewing rulers.
In this episode we’re interviewing Daisy Braid, also known as DIY Daisy! We chat with her about her book, Sew it Yourself, which is filled with pattern-free, wearable projects. She also tells us about her personal style evolution, how to find the good stuff when you’re shopping secondhand, and her year of DIY!
We love overalls and jumpsuits! In this episode, we talk about choosing the right style for you, matching it with the perfect fabric, and the pattern adjustments that are super important for these all-in-one garments. Plus: indie patterns, installing hardware, and more! And in the listener question section, we give some gift ideas for the sewist who has everything.
In this episode, we interview pattern designer, sewing teacher, quilted coat maker extraordinaire, and snappy dresser Natalie Ebaugh! She talks to us about her design process, her long career in the sewing community, and how she puts her amazing outfits together.
We share four big strategies for saving money on sewing, with lots of helpful tips from our listeners. You can make amazing things without spending a lot - or anything at all!
In this episode, we interview Jacqueline Shaw, an expert on African fabrics and fashion. We chat with her about waxprint (also called ankara, African print, or kitenge) - what it is, how it’s made, what you can sew with it, and lots more! Jacqueline is a successful and passionate entrepreneur with a deep knowledge of the subject. Listen in and get inspired!
This episode is all about lace! What it is, how to sew with it, and WHAT to sew with it. Plus, an overview of the history of lace, the different kinds of lace, and your lace questions, answered! We also answer a listener question about how to draft a paneled circle skirt.
In this episode, we interview Kenneth D. King - couture designer, technical sewing wizard, teacher, writer, and contributing editor to Threads Magazine. We chat with him about the couture techniques he developed himself, his storied career, and his latest book: Doll Couture!
In this episode, we’re taking you through all the steps of making test garments, a.k.a. muslins, a.k.a. toiles! From choosing the right fabric to how to cut it, baste it, and adjust it, we’ll demystify this sewing step so you can get your perfect fit and style. Plus, we have a little chatty catch-up about what we did during our winter break.
In this episode, we head to the place where sewing and media meet! First, we share some TV shows, movies, podcasts, and audiobooks that are about sewing. Then, we share recommendations from us and listeners about non-sewing-related media we love to put on while we sew. We also share some tips for how to actually hear or see media while you’re at the machine. Plus, we share listener feedback about a me-made wedding dress, a roller sewing machine foot, and the archaeology of sewing needles.
Today we're diving deep into bag making! We talk about the best fabrics to use, how to give your bags structure, and how to make a bag that's both functional and stylish. We also demystify bag hardware and share some great indie bag patterns! Plus, we answer listener questions about making IRL sewing friends and picking up tiny threads after seam ripping.
In this episode, Caroline tells us all about making her own wedding dress! From designing to fabric shopping to muslining to hand finishing, she shares her joys and her lessons learned. Congratulations, Caroline!
In this episode, we interview Bernadette Banner, historical sewist extraordinaire! She answers all of our hand sewing questions, chats with us about historical clothing, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her YouTube channel.
In this episode, we’re getting inspired by vintage styles from the 1920s to the 1990s! We’re going to talk about the typical silhouettes, styles, and fabrics from each decade. We’ll also share media to watch to get inspired and indie patterns that have the decade’s vibe. So get in the time machine - we’re going window shopping!
This episode is all about applique! We’re going to share some applique inspo, walk you through different methods of machine and hand applique, and give you a bunch of tips. Applique a quilt, applique your clothes, applique a wall hanging - you’ll want to applique your whole life by the time we’re finished!
In this episode, we interview crafter extraordinaire Larrie King, also known as Mister Larrie! We chat with him about nurturing creativity, improv quilting, and trying allll the things. Is there a craft Larrie hasn’t attempted? Let’s find out!
In this episode, we’re sharing stories from long-time sewists! The sewists featured in this episode have been sewing for over 40 years - but some have been sewing for over 60. Wow! They share their sewing memories, advice, and perspectives on changes in the sewing world.
In today’s treat of an episode, we’re talking about sewing costumes! We’ll share the costumes we’ve made and worn, talk about special costume considerations, give some tips for working with unusual fabrics, and share some costume ideas! We’re just DYING to dress up!
In this episode, we interview Claire Birnie from Sew Outdoorsy! We chat with her about technical fabrics, weatherproofing your me-mades, gear sewing techniques, and designing plus size patterns for activewear.
We answer a bunch of questions in this episode: What even is a yoke, anyways? Are my shoulders weird? How do I DIY those cute western embellishments on my me-mades? We share ideas, inspo, pattern adjustments, and more! Plus, we answer a listener question about making elastic waistbands easier to sew and wear.
In this episode, we interview Wendy Liu, also known as WithWendy! We chat with her about DIY-ing designer clothes, thrifting fabrics, making mistakes, and producing amazing sewing videos on YouTube.
You’ve reached the Love to Sew Help Line! What’s your sewing struggle? In this episode, we’re taking your calls and giving out advice - on how to upcycle overalls into pants, what fabrics to use for summer shorts and trousers, whether or not to backstitch when shirring, and more! Plus, we catch up about our summer adventures and announce a new way to support Love to Sew.
You asked, we answer! In this episode, we answer questions about lots of different topics, including: Caroline’s wedding dress, Helen’s board game recommendations, impostor syndrome, dealing with negative feedback, and our favourite pizza toppings. When we said ask us anything, we meant it! Plus, we give a personal update on our lives and businesses for the past eight months, play a fun game, and share a WIP organization tip from a drag queen listener.
This episode is filled with ideas for sewing projects to make for your fur babies! We recommend patterns, fabrics, and sewing techniques that will keep your pets safe, entertained, and adorable. Plus, we chat about our own pets, answer a question about how to fix a dress pattern that comes out shorter in front, and share a listener tip about soluble basting thread.
Knits vs. wovens! Late night sewing vs. daytime sewing! Making a muslin vs just going for it! In this episode, Helen and Caroline have friendly debates over different approaches to sewing. They weigh the pros and cons of each choice before revealing their personal preferences - and the results of our Instagram polls (nearly 3,000 of you responded!). It’s all in good fun - there is a lot of laughing in this episode. Plus, listener questions about using fabric that goes over a pattern’s recommended stretch percentage and what to do about white pants where the pocket bags are visible.
Sewing is a good thing. Travel is a good thing. Put them together and you get a GREAT thing! In this episode, we talk about taking your sewing with you on your travels, planning sewing-themed activities for your trips, and how to make your me-mades presentable while travelling. Plus, we talk about sewing retreats, sewing conventions, and planning your own sewing trip! We also share listener feedback about shopping for sewing souvenirs while traveling, crafty Vancouver recommendations, and an international sewing pattern database.
In this episode, we share all the info you need to get gorgeous gathers, stretchy shirring, and fluttery flounces. This episode is packed with techniques and tips! We also recommend lots of patterns and share pattern hack ideas. Plus: a listener writes to us about gathers in quilting.
Crack that WIP! In this episode, we chat about why projects become works-in-progress, how to organize your WIP pile, and strategies to work through your WIPs. We also answer a listener question about brushed fabrics - and share an upcoming sewing-themed cozy mystery novel that features Helen’s Closet! Plus, a challenge: #LoveToSewWIPs!
Double gauze is a lightweight, breathable, cloud-like fabric that often has a nice crinkly texture. In this episode, we answer all your questions about sewing it - how to pre-wash it, how to keep it from fraying too much, and most importantly: DO YOU PRESS IT?! Listen in for all our best tips and pattern recommendations. Plus, we answer a listener question about how to prevent and treat underarm sweat stains!
YOU can quilt! In this episode, Helen shares a bunch of reasons to love quilting, walks quilting newbie Caroline through the steps of the quilting process, and recommends projects for beginner quilters. If you’re quilt-curious, this episode may just make you a quilter! Plus, we answer a listener question about the minimum of tools you’ll need to quilt if you’re a garment sewist.
Welcome to the future of sewing! We share stories from kid and teen sewists - creative, kind, enthusiastic young people who are getting ready to take on the world. We also share resources to help the kids in your life learn to sew! Plus, we answer a listener question about telling pattern pieces apart and making construction steps easier to follow.
Garment guts are the hidden parts of the garment that give it shape, structure, and functionality. In this episode, we talk about boning, padding, underskirts, horsehair braid, waist stays, pad stitching, and more! We also answer listener questions about fabric labeling, wringing out fabric, and when to buy a serger.
Bodies change - it’s a fact of life! In this episode, we share strategies for how to sew for yourself when your body is changing - from making new garments that will fit over several sizes to altering and refashioning old me-mades. This episode is packed with info! Plus, we answer a listener question about where to find challenging sewing patterns.
We answer questions from our listeners about a variety of fabrics, including ramie, cupro, silk pique, bull denim, tulle, and more! Plus: the perfect T-shirt fabric, burn testing, and fabric for work pants that won’t wrinkle. We also share listener feedback from the Home Decor episode.
Join us for a discussion of everything sleeves! We review the three main types of sleeves, walk you through several methods of attaching set-in sleeves, and offer lots of sleeve sewing tips. Plus, we cover sleeve fitting, sleeve pattern hacking, and our favourite sleeve styles.
Hello Caller, this is the Love to Sew Help Line! What’s your sewing struggle? We answer questions from our listeners about pattern alterations, interfacing, re-fashioning, regaining sewjo after a long break, and more! We also share an inspiring listener email about whether or not to go to fashion school.
We dive into fancy weaves - those fabrics that are made with special looms, special tools, special yarn twists, or otherwise unusual processes! We cover satins, jacquards, velvets, dobby weaves, and more, describing what they’re like, how they’re made, and how to sew with them. We also give advice to a listener who’s starting her own business.
Have you ever looked at all the stitches you can do on your machine and wondered, “What’s that one for?” In this episode, we explain the function of each stitch, give tips on how to get the best results from machine stitching, and share some ideas for how to use decorative stitches. We also share listener feedback about sewing social media platforms!
Home decor sewing can make your house into a warm, inviting home! In this episode, we chat about the home decor fabrics, notions, and tools you’ll need to do a bevy of projects. We also give home-decor specific sewing tips, share the projects we’ve made ourselves, and discuss inspiring project ideas. Plus, listener feedback about our quilted garments episode!
Soft, cute, and always wire-free, we are HERE for bralettes! In this episode, we talk about the fabrics, patterns, and techniques you can use to make the perfect bralette for you. We review the different ways bralettes can give support, notions you might need, and how to switch out finishes. We also share listener feedback about chalk hem markers!
Is there anything scarier than a really bad sewing mishap? Okay, there are a few things, but this episode is about the sewing moments that made our listeners’ hearts drop. We share their funny and harrowing stories, plus answer a listener question about getting a flat bias tape-finished neckline. Happy Spooky Season!
Home sewing patterns put knowledge and power in the hands of ordinary people, changing fashion forever. In this episode, we go back to the beginnings of sewing patterns in the mid-19th century (and a little bit earlier). We talk about the enormous shifts in technology and lifestyles through the nearly two centuries that followed - and we even predict the future of sewing patterns! Plus, a listener question about fashion school and life direction.
This episode is all about making cozy cool quilted garments! We talk you through every step: choosing fabric, making patchwork, quilting, assembling, and finishing. We also review batting options, give seam finishing tips specifically for those bulky quilt seams, and chat about inspiring quilted garments we love. In our listener question section, we recommend A-line skirt patterns in plus sizes and name a source of nickel-free jeans buttons and rivets.
From laundering to mending, this episode is all about caring for your precious me-made garments! We cover pre-washing, sewing tips to make your clothes last, stain removal, storage, and more. Plus, a listener letter about swim trunks notions!
We share your most unexpected tips and tools in this community episode! From fun gadgets to expert guidance, be prepared to have your mind blown!
In this episode, we review components of design (volume, colour, texture, print, and more) so that you can pinpoint your ideal personal style. Then we offer suggestions to bring your ideal down to earth so that it’s wearable in your everyday life. Plus: how to have fun with fashion, a listener question about getting flat knit neck bands, and our favourite part: the phrases listeners use to describe their style!
A-HEM! In this episode, we get to the bottom of hems: techniques, tools, and tips for wovens and knits. Plus: marking hems, adjusting hem depth, and fancy hems! The listener feedback is all about changing robes/ponchos.
We celebrate five years of Love to Sew with a chatty catch-up, a bit of reflection, and a bunch of sewing-themed games! Thank you for five wonderful years!
Get ready for the lovey-dovey-est episode ever! We share your touching, funny, creative love letters to sewing teachers, sewing tools, sewing machines, fabric, friends, family, and sewing itself.
Tabitha Sewer is a sewing content creator, button designer, and business expert. We chat with her about sewing with unusual fabrics, creating designer looks for less, thrift flipping, and her amazing buttons! She also takes us behind the scenes of creating content for some of the biggest brands in the world.
Four years after our first Sewing Swimwear episode, we’re back on the topic with more sewing tips, better fabric information, and lots of great pattern recommendations! We also cover ideas for adapting non-swimwear patterns into swimwear, swim coverup ideas, places to buy swimwear fabric, and a review of all the swimwear we have sewn ourselves. Plus: listener feedback from our Getting Started with Pattern Drafting episode!
This week’s episode is a podcast crossover! We chat with the hosts of the Asian Sewist Collective Podcast, Ada Chen and Nicole Angeline, about making a sewing podcast, issues that affect sewists of Asian descent, and their personal sewing stories. Listen in to learn about how the Collective got started, how they make decisions, and how the podcast sausage gets made!
Chests come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes - and patterns usually don’t. In this episode, we go over the ways that patterns are shaped (or not) to accommodate a bust, how you can tell if you need a pattern adjustment, and how to adjust patterns to fit your unique chest.
Rose Parr is a sewist and ergonomics expert. In this episode, we get her best advice for sewing practices that are kind to your body, including how to set up your sewing space, which ergonomic tools make a difference, and what stretches to do.
Serena (a.k.a. Sewrena) makes her fabulous vintage wardrobe using vintage patterns and vintage machines! We chat with her about her favourite vintage styles, the differences between vintage and modern patterns, and what to look for in a vintage machine. Plus, vintage maternity clothes, making amazing hats, and #VintageStyleNotVintageValues.
As sewists, we know a lot about finished fabrics - but how much do we know about how they get made? In this episode, we walk you through all the steps of the fabric-making process, from raw materials to finished bolts. We also cover ethical considerations, fabric certifications, and how finished fabrics get from factories to your doorstep.
Samantha (aka @purplesewingcloud) is a sewist known for her fun, colourful makes. In this episode, we chat with her about mixing prints, incorporating patchwork into garments, and how to make the sewing community more accessible. Sam also shares the design process for her handmade wedding dress, her personal accessibility strategies, and how to do foundation paper piecing.
Every month on Patreon, we release a mini-episode for our patrons at the "Love to Sew Superfan" level! These episodes are short versions of our main episodes. We have done episodes on sewing techniques, fabric deep dives, and pattern ideas. We often make episodes based on questions or topics from our patrons! Patrons at this level also get 15% off discount codes to Helen's Closet and Blackbird Fabrics. In this free mini-episode, we share five methods for making a dress form that looks just like you! We also discuss the pros and cons of each method, talk about how sewists use dress forms, and admit our fears of getting trapped in duct tape. If you like this mini-episode and want more, consider supporting us on Patreon! Click the link below to sign up. Our patrons are the reason we are able to make quality sewing content. Thank you, patrons!
Show Notes:
Take your sewing to the next level by learning how to draft patterns! In this episode, we list the materials you need, give you an overview of the drafting process, and share resources to help you learn this skill. Also, Helen tells the story of her business, Helen’s Closet Patterns!
Kat Brown Akootchook is a Native American artist and designer who blends contemporary and traditional with a wink and a smile! We chat with her about her wonderful work in many mediums: beadwork, sewing, block printing, and hide tanning.
March's bonus episode is full of adventure! Caroline went on a dangerous hike and saw a bobcat in her yard; Helen tried basket making and signed up for a pottery course. Plus: exciting Helen's Closet news, Caroline's wedding guest dress, tons of cool pattern releases, and a tool that will keep your fabric from twisting and bunching up in the washer and dryer.
If you like this episode and want more, consider signing up for our patreon! For $5 USD, will get a bonus episode every month, plus weekly behind-the-scenes photo posts.
Click here to visit our Patreon!
Show notes:
Sewing Patterns:
Other Mentions:
For our 200th episode, we asked our listeners the question we ask all our guests: “How did you learn to sew?” In this episode, we share some of the many great responses we got - funny, touching stories of discovering this skill we all love.
Donny Hoang (aka Donny Q) is a sewing influencer and microbiologist with a unique, textural personal style. In this episode, we chat with him about self-drafting, taking great photos, working with leafcutter ants, and his dream style aesthetic: looking like a pile of unfolded laundry.
It has pockets! We cover patch pockets, in-seam pockets, slash pockets, and welt pockets. Plus: a short history of pockets, iconic pocket patterns, and tons of pocket tips!
This episode was originally released on August 19, 2019. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we talk about everything denim! What do denim weights mean? How do I choose the right denim for my project? What is selvage denim? We cover it all!
This episode was originally released on March 11, 2019. We asked for your sewing stories from around the world! In this Love to Sew Favourite, we make connections and highlight differences in our sewing. We share your stories, tips, and experiences.
This episode was originally released on August 12, 2019. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we chat with Susan Khalje about the art of couture sewing! We chat about why couture matters, how to create ‘couture moments’ in your wardrobe, and the tools needed to succeed with couture sewing.
This episode was originally released on April 16, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we give you tips and ideas to level up your sewing! We want to help you to learn new skills, improve the quality of your work, and sew something you didn’t think possible. We hope you’ll come away with the encouragement you need to take your sewing practice up a notch.
This episode was originally released on September 21, 2020. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Maressa Fernandez joins us to talk about maker affirmations! She shares how maker affirmations can help us to work through creative struggles and inspire a breakthrough in your creative practice.
This episode was originally released on December 2, 2019. Are you looking for the perfect sewing gift to give to a loved one? What about gifts to give to your sewing friends? In this Love to Sew Favourite, we’ve got you covered - so your gift can be as special and unique as your loved one!
Alexandra Morgan is a fitting expert - and today, she brings her expertise to our listeners! Alexandra shares a bit about her experience in the fashion industry and in the home sewing world, walks us through the steps of her fitting process, and helps six listeners with their fitting issues. The fitting photos are in our show notes, so visit lovetosewpodcast.com to follow along!
There’s no fabric more glamorous than silk! In this episode, we take a deep dive into this fancy fiber - its history, how it’s made, and how to work with it. Plus, we share a source for custom cutting mats, an amazing sewing song made by a listener, and alternatives to silk!
Interested in quilting, but don’t know where to start? Start here! Bhiravi Rathinasabapathi, quilt designer and owner of Strawberry Creek Quilts, teaches us all the basics in this episode.
Four years of Love to Sew? This calls for a celebration! In this fun, chatty episode, we share big changes in our lives from the past year, answer questions from listeners, and play a game with our partners, Sam and Shea!
Collars can be tricky to sew, but they’re worth it! In this episode, we go over the parts of a collar, the different kinds of collars, and lots of collar sewing tips. Plus, we answer a listener question about how to make more things you like, share some collared sewing patterns, and even talk about how to eliminate a collar!
A great garment pairs a good design with the perfect fabric. In this episode, we guide you through pattern and fabric matchmaking, whether in-person or online. Plus, we answer a question about using natural fiber fabrics for interfacing, share a listener’s recommended sewing gadgets, and share our best and worst fabric choices.
What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started sewing? In this episode, Love to Sew listeners share the hard-earned advice they wish they had when they were new sewists - and Helen and Caroline commentate!
Christi Johnson is a textile artist and teacher. We talk with her about mystical empowerment through wearable embroidery, clothing vs. fashion, and her new book!
Cutting is a big part of every sewist’s life. In this episode, we share tips for cutting patterns and fabric, recommend the best cutting supplies, and have a Team Rotary Cutter vs. Team Scissors smackdown!
Tailoring for everyone! Emilia Bergoglio makes amazing tailored garments. In this episode, they chat with us about tailoring techniques, degendering fashion, and their favourite learning resources.
Linings can make your clothes last longer, make sheer fabrics more versatile, and even make your jackets warmer. In this episode, Helen and Caroline review how to sew linings, how to draft linings, and how to choose the perfect lining fabric for your garment.
Francisco Diaz is an artist, slow fashion sewist, and upcycler extraordinaire! In this episode, we pick their brain about sewing with thrifted fabrics, painting and drawing on garments, earth day goals, queer creator collabs, and more.
An organized stash is the key to enjoying your fabrics! We share small-space strategies, listener tips, cataloging methods, and more in this comprehensive episode. Big stash? Small stash? We’ve got ideas for any stash!
This episode was originally released on August 26, 2019. What does your style say about you? From assessing your current style to designing your dream wardrobe, we will have you inspired to create the looks that best suits you.
This episode was originally released on March 23, 2020. This Love to Sew Favourite is all about thread! We discuss the different types of thread, their properties and weights, and how to find the right thread for your sewing project. We also discuss top tips for finding a good quality thread and ways to strengthen your thread when hand-stitching!
This episode was originally released on November 19, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Gretchen Rubin joins us to talk about her Four Tendencies framework and how it relates to our creative hobbies. We talk about knowing yourself better, finding accountability, facing your fears, and how colour can influence our everyday lives. Gretchen is a happiness expert and she gives us loads of tips on how to be happy and productive in our sewing practice.
This episode was originally released on July 6, 2020. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we discuss the fascinating history of linen, common characteristics of linen, and the many great pattern suggestions for sewing with linen. We also touch on some tips and tricks for sewing with linen and our favourite linen makes!
This episode was originally released on October 28, 2019. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Vogue Patterns designer Carlos Correa gives us a behind-the-scenes preview of the making of Vogue sewing patterns! Carlos also chats about his own sewing journey, his love for high fashion, and his approach to making a handmade wardrobe.
This episode was originally released on May 20, 2019. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we share the wonderful, heartfelt, and surprising reasons why we sew. Listeners all around the world wrote in to tell us their ‘why’ and celebrate this wonderful hobby with us!
This episode was originally released on September 17, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Jen Hewett shares her passion for block printing and tells us how we can print our own fabrics! She walks us through how she got started with block printing, why she loves turning her printed fabrics into garments, and what makes a good block. We also discuss listening to your body while you work, wearing prints, and why not to turn your hobby into a business.
Pants! We love to sew them and we love to wear them. In this episode, Helen and Caroline talk pants sewing techniques, pants patterns, pants fabrics, and the pants fitting process!
In this episode, Helen and Caroline chat with three amazing petite sewists: Simone Nelson, Shontae Buffington, and Lauren Digby. They share their petite sewing strategies, tips, and stories to help other sewists find their perfect fit!
Terrance Williams is a sustainable fashion entrepreneur, style icon, content creator, and activist! In this episode, Helen and Caroline chat with him about his business, his personal style journey, and creating change in the sewing world.
Lyocell/Tencel is lovely for garment sewing...but what is it? In this episode, Helen and Caroline completely demystify this beautiful, comfortable, and sustainable fabric: how it's made, how to sew it, and how to care for it!
This week, we are delving into zero waste sewing! Helen and Caroline discuss how to revolutionize your sewing practice with waste-reducing techniques, zero waste patterns, and sustainable habits.
Mark our words: marking tools are important! Helen and Caroline break down all the different kinds of marking tools so that you can choose the best ones for your projects.
Hooray for beginner sewists! Helen and Caroline cover your beginner questions in this Q&A--from machine threading to fitting muslins!
Saremy Duffy from Sew Sew Live joins us to talk about commercial sewing techniques and how she started live-streaming sewing projects on YouTube! Saremy talks about her extensive experience in the sewing industry and shares her top tips for bringing commercial sewing practices into home sewing.
Need to brush up on your sewing vocabulary? We are here to help! We cover some of the most common terms in home sewing and share some helpful tips and tricks along the way!
Treasure Mallory from Nikki&Mallory joins us to talk about leatherwork! Treasure shares what you need to get started, how to overcome beginner challenges, and the differences between garment sewing and sewing with leather. She also shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey and her best advice for small business owners.
Press play to hear all about pressing! We discuss the pressing techniques, tools, and tips that result in beautiful finished garments.
We have assembled a fantastic pep squad of sewists to reignite your sewing passion! In this episode, there are nine pep talks from former guests Brooks Ann Camper, Jasika Nicole, Elise Blaha Cripe, Aaronica Cole, Jenny Rushmore, Julian Collins, and Denise Archer, as well as your hosts, Helen and Caroline.
The episode was originally released on December 5, 2017. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Jasika Nicole joins us to chat about shoemaking and red carpet DIY. She’s a fearless maker who will try anything!
This episode was originally released on October 9, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we cover different types of knit fabrics, the tools you need, and tips for getting a professional finish while sewing. You will be making your own tees, leggings, and sweaters in no time!
This episode was originally released on February 6, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we cover all the basics such as construction, content, weight, drape, and stretch. We also offer tips for successful fabric shopping online and in person.
This episode was originally released on January 1, 2019. In this Love to Sew Favourite, Elise Cripe joins us to talk about setting and achieving goals! Elise also shares her sewing journey and what led her to create the Get To Work Book, the ultimate planner for your life and your creative projects.
This episode was originally released on December 11, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we discuss everything you need to know about sewing a coat, from beginner tips to advanced tailoring techniques. We also discuss wool coating fabrics and how to mentally prepare for a big project like a coat!
The episode was originally released on May 28, 2018. In this Love to Sew Favourite, we break down our favourite simple and advanced hacks that will let you get the most mileage out of your patterns! Everything you need to know, from must-have hacking tools to how to mix your favourite patterns. You can hack it!
Do you need some sewing motivation? We discuss the many ways you can reignite your sewjo, and share our personal experiences in staying motivated to sew!
Has a tool or resource completely changed your sewing practice? We share your revelatory stories on what has altered your sewing game, and ours too!
We discuss the many exciting options for sewing your own accessories! From sewing bags to making your own shoes, we round-up some amazing project ideas and share our favourite me-made accessories too.
Planning on sewing for kids? We discuss some differences between sewing for kids and adults, considerations for making kids garments, and special techniques you may encounter in the sewing process. We also share our tips and experience in sewing for young ones.
Andie Wells joins us to talk about their sewing practice and how the community can better support sewists living with chronic illnesses and disabilities. They also discuss fat sewing, who they love following in the online sewing community, and some of their favourite sewing resources!
Learn all about elastic! We dive into different types of elastic, and which ones you should be using for your next project. Plus, we share our tops tips for sewing with elastic, along with our favourite elastic sources!
We share some of the amazing feedback we have received over the past 6 months in this semi-annual feedback fest! We cover sewing confessions, sewing tips, helpful resources and so much more!
Get comfortable because we are chatting all about loungewear! We talk about the importance of sewing loungewear as a form of self-care and what sewing patterns you can sew up for maximum comfort!
Learn all about wool! We discuss common characteristics of wool, how to care for your wool garments, and why you should wear wool even in warmer weather. We also touch on some tips and tricks for sewing with wool and our favourite wool makes!
Maressa Fernandez joins us to talk about maker affirmations! She shares how maker affirmations can help us to work through creative struggles, and also inspire a breakthrough in your creative practice!
We discuss our favourite sewing tips for sewing undies and the supplies you need to sew your own undies. From period panties to boxer briefs, we’ve got you covered in our sewing patterns round-up too!
Sara Trail from the Social Justice Sewing Academy joins us to talk about how SJSA’s workshops and programs support youth in their exploration of social justice issues through quilting as textile artivism. We also talk about the SJSA business incubator and exciting ways that you can help and get involved!
From sewing patterns to online educational sewing content, we cover lots of free sewing resources to help you save costs and keep sewing!
Arounna Khounnoraj joins us to discuss the beautiful craft of punch needle! She shares what you need to get started, how to overcome beginner challenges, and some top tips for punch needle success.
It’s our 3 year anniversary! Join us as we catch up on our businesses and day-to-day lives, along with answering all your questions in a special Q&A!
Learn all about pins and needles! We cover different types of needles and pins and what you need to know when considering pins and needles for your projects.
Julian Collins joins us to chat about his sewing journey and the Black Makers Matter coalition. We discuss how the sewing community can support Black makers and help to ensure companies big and small make it clear that they value their Black customers. Julian also talks about the confidence he gets from wearing handmade garments and his SewManly Facebook group!
Learn how to fabric shop online! We discuss our top tips for online fabric shopping so you can find that perfect fabric for your project.
We share your favourite sewing confessions, from sewing over pins to not pre-washing your fabrics, we’ve got them all!
We hear from queer and trans community members about their experiences sewing clothing that affirms their gender and finding patterns that fit. We share listener stories of how sewing can have both a positive and negative impact on one’s gender expression and also discuss ways we can be more inclusive of LGBTQ+ sewists in our sewing community!
Learn all about linen! We discuss the fascinating history of linen, common characteristics of linen, and the many great pattern suggestions for sewing with linen. We also touch on some tips and tricks for sewing with linen and our favourite linen makes!
Jess and Leila join us to talk about their pattern design company, Muna and Broad! We discuss the beginning days of Muna and Broad, size inclusivity in the sewing community, and the inspiring community contributions Jess and Leila are behind.
We cover all the details you need to know for pattern matching! We share tips and tricks to successfully match fabrics like stripes and plaids, and discuss the many creative opportunities with pattern matching!
We discuss how meditative crafting can help you to de-stress and relax, along with sharing lots of inspiring project ideas!
Shannon Flaherty joins us to talk about Sew Queer and her involvement in the online sewing community! Shannon shares her experience as a queer, fat sewist and gives her advice on inclusivity in the sewing community.
Learn all about bias tape! We discuss the different types of bias tape, how to make it, and where to use it. We share some inspiring bias tape projects and some of our favorite shops to buy bias tape!
We share who is inspiring you in the sewing community! We discuss whose style you are swooning over, sewing community leaders that are major heart eyes, and who we are loving following too!
Let’s get mending! We cover stitches to use when mending, different mending techniques, and the tools you need to be successful. We also share our mending experience and our favourite mending resources!
Stasia Savasuk chats with us about her style school and her journey to finding her style. She also shares some styling tips so we can always look and feel great - inside and out!
Norris Dánta Ford joins us to chat about menswear style! Norris chats about why fashion is important to him, and how we can be bolder with our styling choices. He shares styling resources, styling inspiration, and the many projects he is working on in the sewing community and beyond!
Do you journal your sewing process, or simply take photos of your finished makes? We are chatting about ways you can get organized in documenting your makes, while also sharing some of our top tips for taking a good photo! The #memademay challenge is coming up, and we share some planning tips for that too!
We share your episode feedback over the past 6 months and chat about our favorite episodes too! Hear what episodes resonated with the community most, and some follow-up discussions on some of your favourite topics!
Rachael Gilbert-Burns joins us to chat about the Measurements Movement and the #imnot2D social media hashtag! She also chats about how her sewing curiosity has helped her to grow as a sewist and engage with others in the online sewing community.
Who doesn’t love a tried and true pattern? We share your favourite patterns, and ours too, in this TNT episode. We also share your favourite TNT pattern hacks that always leave you coming back for more!
Learn all about thread! We discuss the different types of thread, its properties and weights, and how to find the right thread for your sewing project. We also discuss top tips for finding a good quality thread, and ways to strengthen your thread when hand-stitching!
Chelsea Gurnoe joins us to share her story of starting her indie pattern design company, Friday Pattern Co.! We chat about Friday pattern favourites, the beginning years in the business, and her commitment to social responsibility.
Learn about fabric dyeing! We cover different types of dyes, best practices, and the tools and supplies you will need to have success at home. Plus, we share our personal experience and our favourite tips and resources to inspire you to try your hand at fabric dyeing!
Meg McCarthy joins us to chat about pattern testing! We chat about the pattern testing process and her pattern testing experience over the years. We also chat about her successful blog, Cookin’ and Craftin’, and her involvement in the sewing community.
Let’s get fancy and chat about delicate fabrics! We discuss different kinds of delicate fabrics, and the tools and tips you need to succeed in working with fine fabrics. You will be sewing up your silks and chiffons in no time!
We discuss the history of the zipper, how to choose a zipper for your project, and our best tips for zipper success when sewing!
We discuss how sewing can be a form of self-care, ways to create self-care moments in your sewing practice, and how sewing plays an important role in our self-care practices!
Amanda Overs joins us to talk about shoe-making! From starting her business ‘I Can Make Shoes’ to her recent book release, Amanda chats with us about her shoe-making resources and how we too can make our own shoes!
From accommodating small spaces to your favourite organizational tips, we chat all about your sewing spaces and what makes them special! We highlight your tips and tricks for a great sewing space, and also share the details on our sewing spaces too!
Learn how to turn your sewing passion into a full-time career! This week we are chatting about the different sewing careers out there and how you can make a living doing what you love.
Learn all about cotton! We discuss the history of cotton, common characteristics of cotton fabric, and the many popular cotton fabrics we use to sew our garments. We also touch on some tips and tricks for sewing with cotton and our favourite cotton makes!
Paulette Erato joins us to chat about the sewing challenges happening in our community in 2020! We chat about her successful blog, Petit Font, and her annual round-up of sewing challenges each year. We also touch on Paulette’s involvement in this year’s Sew My Style challenge.
Let’s chat sewing goals! This week we are talking all about our sewing and business plans for 2020. We also share your sewing goals and ambitions for the new year too!
Our Podcast Assistant Melanie joins us on this holiday episode! We chat about what went down in 2019, what Melanie does for the show, and our podcast plans for 2020.
Get to know your curves as we dive deep into the curvy sewing resources in our community! We discuss go-to curvy sewing communities, curvy sewists and bloggers to follow, and the sewing tips you need to get that perfect fit.
Linda Lee joins us this week to chat about creating a great fit for any garment! We also touch on The Sewing Workshop sewing patterns and Linda’s expansive teaching and business experience in the sewing community.
Are you looking for the perfect sewing gift to give to a loved one? What about gifts to give to your sewing friends? We’ve got you covered with all our favourites, so your gift can be both as special and unique as your loved one!
We can all relate to the situation when someone asks us to make or mend something! Do you sew for others, or is sewing a solo, self-care activity for you? We discuss how to create sewing boundaries to keep your sewing passion ignited, and also how to graciously say no to those sewing projects you don’t want to tackle.
Meg McElwee joins us to chat about how we can mindfully sew our wardrobes as a form of self-care. Meg chats all about the early days of Sew Liberated Patterns and her recent course release of The Mindful Wardrobe Project!
From creating a strong buttonhole to finding the perfect button for your project, we cover all the details when it comes to buttons and buttonholes! We discuss hand-sewing and machine sewing button techniques, and some helpful tips to ensure you have well-sewn buttons on all your garments!
Sewing starlet Gretchen ‘Gertie’ Hirsch joins us to chat about retro sewing and curvy pattern design! Gertie shares her sewing journey from starting her blog over a decade ago to producing sewing patterns, books, and hosting workshops around the world. Gertie shares her love for retro glam, and the behind-the-scenes of making a pattern that accentuates women’s curves.
Vogue Pattern Designer Carlos Correa gives us a behind-the-scenes preview in the making of Vogue sewing patterns! Carlos also chats about his own sewing journey, his love for high fashion, and his approach to making a handmade wardrobe.
We are sharing our favourite items in our sewing toolkits! We also cover toolkit checklists for specific projects such as jeans-making and bra-making. Do you want to level up your sewing toolkit? We cover that too!
Hear your feedback over the last 6 months with our semi-annual feedback fest! We share your inspiring sewing stories, responses to recent episodes, additional sewing tips, and so much more!
Michelle Brown Colistro from Matchpoint Fabric joins us this week to chat about sustainable sewing. We chat about sustainability in the textile industry, and ways you too can make a positive, sustainable impact with your sewing. We also chat about Matchpoint Fabric as a successful earth-friendly business!
Let’s get creative and sustainable with refashioning! We cover why you should refashion beloved makes for a better fit, and how you can get creative and make big changes with your unworn garments.
Rumana Lasker joins us to talk about full coverage fashion! From wearing the hijab to her most recent burkini make, we chat with Rumana about her modest sewing approach. Rumana also chats with us about the #sewincolour movement, with its focus on diversity and inclusion, and we also hear some behind-the-scenes details from Rumana's experience on The Great British Sewing Bee!
From your favourite sewing tricks to your go-to sewing tools, we cover all your favourite sewing tips. Whether you are looking for ways to organize your sewing space, upgrade your sewing techniques or some simple, but smart, reminders to help you in your sewing journey, we've got you covered in this week's episode!
From the basic serging seam technique to the hong kong seam finish, we cover various different ways you can finish off those seam allowances. Whether you are looking for something quick and easy, or that professional finish, we've got you covered in this week's episode!
What does your style say about you? From assessing your current style to designing your dream wardrobe, we will have you inspired to create the looks that best suits you.
Denise Archer shares her personal experience battling cancer and how sewing played a vital role. We discuss sewing as an escape and the power of knowing our bodies through our relationship with making clothes. Denise also shares her perspective on body image post-cancer and reconstructive surgery.
Vintage sewing expert Evelyn Wood joins us to talk about creating garments from the past! She shares tips for refashioning thrift store finds, the importance of mending, and her top 5 good sewing habits. We also discuss ‘garment archeology’ and how to look for clues when admiring vintage pieces.
How competitive are you? This week we discuss our experience managing our competitive sides and fostering the sewing community. We hear from our listeners and dive into sewing competitions, social media comparison traps, and how to start a business in a competitive environment.
To celebrate 100 episodes of Love to Sew, Caroline and Helen interview each other. What have we always wanted to know? Favourite fabrics, recipes, podcasts, and more!
Suzy Furrer of Apparel Arts joins us to chat about patternmaking. From creating a moulage through to drafting patterns, Suzy has so much knowledge to share. We also talk about building her design school and literally writing the book on patternmaking!
What do we do with all of our fabric scraps? We break down how we store our scraps, what is worth keeping, and loads of project ideas that will have you scrap-free in no time.
Learn everything you ever wanted to know about sergers! We break down different types of stitches and what they are used for, give some top recommendations for entry-level machines, and tell you everything to look out for when choosing the right serger for you. Plus lots of great resources to learn more and get you overlocking in no time.
David Page Coffin joins us to chat about his almost 50 years of sewing experience! He gives us great shirtmaking tips and shares his sewing philosophy. We also dive into his career as an editor of Threads magazine and how he stumbled into the wonderful world of sewing.
We share your feedback from the past 6 months in this semi-annual feedback fest! Hear inspiring stories from fellow listeners, get great sewing tips, and leave feeling inspired to get out there and sew!
Elisalex De Castro Peake chats with us about her leap from the fashion world to the home sewing community. We hear the story behind By Hand London and discuss where things are headed next. Elisalex also shares great tips about fitting bodices, embroidering clothing, and dressing to impress.
We have all experienced Sewjo (sewing mojo) or lack thereof! Why does it leave us and how do we find it again? We discuss our personal experiences with losing our SewJo and things we have done to get it back.
Michelle Morris of That Black Chic and Sewn Magazine joins us to talk about her return to sewing, starting her blog, and creating her own sewing magazine. We chat about her joyful approach to choosing projects and how she makes garments simply for the love of it!
Sewing Machines come in all shapes and sizes! We talk about the history of the sewing machine, what to look for when you shop for one, and how to approach machine maintenance. We also discuss our favourite stitches, feet, and fun features!
Anna Graham joins us to share her tips on sewing bags, how she got into pattern making, and designing her very own fabric line. We also talk about how she bought her studio space sight unseen and balancing work and family life.
We revisit the topic of sewcializing in this episode. Where can you find fellow makers online? What is good sewcial etiquette? How do you make an Instagram story? How can you start a sewing challenge? We cover all that and much more!
Learn all about interfacing! We discuss the various types of interfacing, their applications, and how to properly use them in our sewing projects. We also highlight some favourite interfacings from you, our listeners!
Want to sew menswear for yourself or a loved one? We talk about some differences between classic womenswear and menswear, where to get started, and how to approach sewing for a loved one. Plus pattern ideas and tips for success with sewing menswear!
Elise Cripe joins us to talk about setting and achieving goals! We discuss taking small steps, tracking your progress, and starting today. Elise also shares her sewing journey and what led her to create Get To Work Book, the ultimate planner for your life and your creative projects.
Shea and Sam join us on this special Holiday episode! We chat about what went down in 2018, what exactly Sam does for the podcast, and whether we got around to making them anything this year. We also find out what sewing tool they want to be and quiz them on fashion and patterns!
Natalie Chanin shares her journey from up-cycling old t-shirts in New York City to returning home to Florence Alabama where she started her clothing line, Alabama Chanin. We talk about building a community of makers and prioritizing transparency in the supply chain. She also tells us about teaching the creative process through The School of Making and the importance of sharing skills with others.
Brrrrrr! It’s cold in here! We discuss everything you need to know about sewing a coat, from beginner tips to advanced tailoring techniques. Learn the difference between wool coating fabrics and how to mentally prepare for a big project like a coat.
Gretchen Rubin joins us to talk about her Four Tendencies framework and how it relates to our creative hobbies. We talk about knowing yourself better, finding accountability, facing your fears, and how colour can influence our everyday lives. Gretchen is a happiness expert and she gives us loads of tips on how to be happy and productive in our sewing practice.
Harriet Johnson has a wealth of knowledge to share about caring for our clothes! She believes in extending the life of our garments and the love we put into making them. We talk about how to properly wash and store your clothes, basic mending, and stain removal.
We love meeting fellow sewists in real life! It is so much fun, and we want to encourage you to try it too. We talk about how to meet online friends in person, how to organize a sewing meet-up, basic meet-up etiquette, and lessons learned from our past sewing get-togethers.
Marcy Harriell (aka Oonaballoona) talks with us about finding confidence through sewing, embracing her amazing personal style, and blending her passions for acting and sewing in her new series' on Bluprint. We discuss shopping the garment district in NYC, whether Marcy ever wears ‘basics’, and her recently-acquired title of 'the patron saint of Frosting'.
Carolyn Norman joins us to talk about sewing as a form of artistic expression. She shares stories from almost 50 years of sewing and inspires us to look at our sewing hobby as more than just making clothes. We talk about finding inspiration in your everyday life, being buried with your favourite fabrics, and her column in Sewn Magazine.
Karen Templer joins us to talk about Slow Fashion October. Can our sewing have an impact on the overall fashion industry? How can we be more intentional with our making practices? Karen shares how she learned to slow down while still enjoying fashion and style.
Sewing isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes there are tears, anger, and disappointment. On this episode, we share your sewing struggles, based on stories from our listeners. We talk about how hard it is to fit our bodies, how lonely sewing can be, and how comparing ourselves to others can make us lose our sew-jo.
Jen Hewett shares her passion for block printing and tells us how we can print our own fabrics! She walks us through how she got started with block printing, why she loves turning her printed fabrics into garments, and what makes a good block. We also discuss listening to your body while you work, wearing prints, and why not to turn your hobby into a business.
Allie Olson shares the story behind Indiesew, her online marketplace for indie patterns and garment fabrics. We discuss the current state of the indie pattern market and the value of sharing your sewing projects online. We also talk about her personal style journey and how her perspective on body image has recently shifted.
Brooks Ann Camper shares her incredible sewing journey that has taken her from Broadway costume creation to making custom bridal gowns. She teaches us how you can up your game by incorporating hand sewing into your next projects! Brooks Ann's positive attitude about enjoying the act of sewing and taking care in the details is truly infectious.
We celebrate one year of podcasting with an extra long question and answer episode dedicated to you, our listeners! Questions about business, our personal lives, our sewing habits, and more in this special anniversary episode!
Erin Meiklejohn teaches us all about bra making supplies, fitting lingerie, and what is involved in sewing your own bras. We get to hear the story behind her business, Emerald Erin, and her plans for future patterns!
What is the real cost of making our own clothes? We tackle the tricky topic of money in this episode about sewing financials. How do sewists budget? How much fabric do we buy? How do we feel about our spending habits? Hear what the community told us!
Colette Guanta joins us to talk about her fabric shop and pattern company, Tessuti! We hear the inspiring story of how Tessuti Fabrics began, and how it has evolved over the past quarter century.
We are celebrating episode 50 this week with a special recap of our time spent travelling together to Pattern Review Weekend, Prince Edward County, and Montreal. We recorded some mini interviews along the way, including a sewing pep talk from Heather Lou and an intro to bra-making with Emerald Erin!
Lauren Taylor is here to talk about running her sewing blog, Lladybird, for almost a decade! Lauren is a sewing instructor, freelance tailor, and inspiring member of the sewing community. She gives us tips for increasing sewing productivity and finding time for creative hobbies.
Tanya Hughes shares her thoughts on sewing vintage patterns and fabrics. She tells us about some of her more involved projects and what it is really like to wear fashions from past decades. Tanya goes above and beyond with her sewing and has so many great tips to share.
Are you thinking about sewing a swimsuit this summer? We’ve got you covered! Get tips on choosing fabrics and patterns and techniques for a professional finish. We also chat about our experiences wearing swimwear and how we can be more body positive at the beach!
Lisa Comfort tells the story of Sew Over It, her online and in-person sewing shop. Lisa sells patterns, fabrics, classes, and more! She started small and has grown her business into one of the biggest indie sewing companies in the world.
Erica Schmitz joins us on the show to talk about MyBodyModel, a web app that generates custom, body-positive croquis based on your own measurements. Erica takes us on her journey, from her first ideas and focus-testing to running her successful Kickstarter campaign. Today is launch day and we can't wait to share this app with you!
Erin Weisbart joins us to talk about inclusivity, representation, self-love, and self-expression! We learn more about the work Erin is doing with Tuesday Stitches to make the sewing community more inclusive. We also hear about her new project, Maternity Sewing, launching soon!
This week we break down our favourite simple and advanced hacks that will let you get the most mileage out of your patterns! Everything you need to know, from must-have hacking tools to how to mix your favourite patterns. You can hack it!
We hear from the sewing community about ways we can be more sustainable in our sewing practice. We discuss favourite scrap-busters, eco-friendly options for fabric and yarns, and organizations and initiatives making a difference in our community.
Tilly Walnes from Tilly and the Buttons joins us to chat about her sewing patterns, personal style, and how she balances running a business with being a new mum. We also get all the details about her latest book, Stretch!
Our mothers join us on the show for this very special episode! We chat about what we were like as kids, the history of sewing in our families, and what our moms think of the sewing community today. These women helped shape who we are and we are so excited to introduce them to you!
Erica Bunker joins us to talk about cultivating a stylish wardrobe. We cover exploring your personal style, looking past the pattern envelope, and how to take awesome photos of your makes. Erica is always pushing the boundaries of sewing with her bold fashion choices and couture finishes.
Zoe Edwards, the creator of Me-Made-May, is on the podcast! We talk about sewing for kids, sustainability, and a decade of blogging. We also cover everything you need to know about the Me-Made-May challenge!
In this episode, we give you tips and ideas to level up your sewing! We want to help you to learn new skills, improve the quality of your work, and sew something you didn't think possible. We hope you'll come away with the encouragement you need to take your sewing practice up a notch.
Melissa Watson is on the show to tell us about the Palmer/Pletsch tissue fitting method. She walks us through common fitting issues and the right order to make fit adjustments. Melissa also shares her experience growing up in the sewing world, designing patterns for McCalls, and some exciting news about the new Palmer/Pletsch fitting book!
This week we are exploring the topic of sustainability as it relates to our sewing practice. We open up about where we are at in our sustainability journey, and how we plan to be kinder to the earth. We also offer tips on what you can do as a sewist to lessen your environmental and social impact on the planet.
Aidan Owen joins us to chat about connecting with our deeper selves through the act of making. Aidan is an amazing knitter and an enthusiastic beginner sewist with lots of great insight to share. We talk about sustainability, slow making, and just how awe-inspiring it is to create.
Erin Dollar is on the podcast to talk about Cotton & Flax, her collection of handmade textile home goods. We chat about her unique aesthetic, her creative process, and her line of fabrics with Robert Kaufman. Erin prioritizes sustainability in her creative business and this year she is striving to connect with the creative community in a deeper way.
This episode is all about getting started with sewing! We recommend patterns, classes, and books for newbies, and explain lots of sewing techniques and fabric jargon. Find out what tools you need to get going and how to keep moving forward with your new sewing hobby!
Mimi G inspires us with stories from her journey to becoming a sewing celebrity. We chat about her pattern line with Simplicity, the Sew It Academy, her workshops, and more. Mimi G is passionate about sharing her knowledge with the world and encouraging the next generation to sew.
We are sharing our favourite things with you! Hear about our favourite sewing tools, patterns, sewists in the community, and more. You’ll learn a little bit more about us in this very special episode and maybe discover something new!
Rochelle New is on the show to chat all about her sewing journey, pivoting in life and business, and her dog, Lucille! Rochelle is an amazing maker who designs all the prints and textiles for the items for sale in her online shop, Home Row Fiber Co. She loves sewing and knitting and creates truly unique items for crafters.
Johanna Lu is on the podcast to talk about her new book, Sewing Activewear! She shares tips and resources for sewists interested in sewing their own workout gear. We also chat about Johanna's blog and Youtube channel, and her passion for sharing her sewing knowledge with the community.
Today’s episode is all about fabric! We’re covering all the basics such as construction, content, weight, drape, and stretch. We also offer tips for successful fabric shopping online and in person.
This week we are chatting with Jennifer Wiese, owner of Workroom Social in Brooklyn, New York. Jennifer joins us to chat about running sewing classes and retreats, creating a custom line of fashion fabrics, and finding your personal style. We also touch on the struggles of running a small business and how we are all going at our own pace.
This week we hear from Caz Adams, the sewing instructor behind UsefulBox in Sydney, Australia. Caz shares a moving story with us and we discuss sewing as therapy and a means to connect with others and with ourselves. She also shares tips for beginner sewists and potential sewing teachers out there!
In this episode, we’re setting aside our goals and resolutions, and carving out space to talk about self-love! Inspired by the #SMYLY2018 challenge, we each tell our stories of how sewing has changed the way we view our bodies. We also offer tips for how you can be more body positive and kind to yourself this year.
Heather Lou, the designer behind Closet Case Patterns, is on the show! We chat about her sewing journey, her pattern line, and her recent move to a new office space. Heather offers our listeners an inspiring pep talk about letting go of fear as a means to improve our sewing practice and our lives.
We are talking about sewing resolutions this week on the podcast! What are some of our goals for the new year and how can we help each other stay accountable? Learn about sewing challenges to keep you motivated and get inspired to make your own re-SEW-lution.
Jess Povenmire is on the show this week to talk about her fabric and yarn shop, La Mercerie. Jess shares her experiences building confidence in business, sticking to a schedule, and planning her creative projects.
Our partners Shea and Sam join us for our 20th episode! We are so excited to introduce you to the guys that support us through our everyday lives as sewists and entrepreneurs. We test their sewing knowledge, laugh about the hardships of living with a sewist, and get their take on our journey as small business owners.
Emily Hundt is the designer behind In the Folds, an independent sewing pattern company based in Sydney, Australia. Emily believes in slow sewing and cherishing the making process. She is currently running a Kickstarter campaign to take her PDF patterns to print. We chat about planning and launching a crowdfunding campaign, her recent rebrand, and her unique design philosophy.
Jasika Nicole joins us to chat about shoemaking, red carpet DIY, handmade beauty products and more. She's a fearless maker who will try anything! Her approach to making is inspiring and her creative spirit is infectious.
We dive deep into patterns this week with tips for organizing, storing, and collecting sewing patterns. We cover hot-button topics like indie vs. big 4, paper vs. PDF, and tracing vs. cutting! This is a great episode for beginner sewists navigating the world of patterns!
Jen Beeman, the founder of Grainline Studio, is on the podcast! We get her take on owning and growing an indie pattern company, and how she has found work/life balance as an entrepreneur.
We take on a ten-day capsule wardrobe challenge and tell you how it went, what we learned, and what we would do differently next time. Lee Vosburgh's 10 x 10 Challenge helped us to reflect on our current lifestyle and wardrobe needs. We walk away feeling motivated to approach our sewing plans thoughtfully and realistically.
We go to Camp Workroom Social and chat with our fellow campers about what this sewing weekend means to them. We both found camp to be such a magical, accepting, and heart-opening experience and we really wanted to share that feeling with the sewing community. Get an inside look at this amazing weekend and hopefully we will see you at camp next year!
Amanda Adams chats with us about her photo a day challenge, #BPSewvember, and shares her passion for bringing the sewing community together. Amanda has a playful approach to sewing and we are in love with her outlook on this creative practice.
This week we are tackling feelings of guilt around NOT sewing all the things and how we can give ourselves grace in our sewing practice. You don’t have to make everything by hand and we can be extra hard on ourselves sometimes for shopping or not making time to sew. We chat about how life is busy and sewing is meant to be a relaxing creative practice, let’s try to keep it that way!
Gillian Whitcombe chats with us about The Sewcialists, and her blog Crafting a Rainbow. We discuss her experience running an online community and the compelling Sewcialists blog series, Who We Are. Gillian also has some great advice about taking better blog photos and defining personal style.
In our first Very Special Episode, we're answering your questions. We chat about fabric, fitting solo, favourite tools, TNT patterns, sewing machines, and much more. We also reflect on podcasting for ten episodes, and how we make it work with our full-time jobs!
Portia Lawrie joins us to chat about the Refashioners 2017 and all that goes into organizing this fantastic community challenge. Learn how you can participate and get tips on refashioning and shopping for unloved garments. Portia encourages us to get creative, overcome sewing fear, and just go for it!
Kelli Ward of True Bias chats with us about her rebrand, her move to paper patterns, and reveals an exciting collaboration that she’s been working on! Over the past few years, she has balanced motherhood, school, and her growing business. Kelli’s approach of leaning slowly into her goals proves that big things can happen one day at a time.
Do you enjoy taking the time to make every detail the best it can be or do you make yourself crazy trying to get everything ‘perfect'? In this week’s episode, we unpack the topic of perfectionism as a community by sharing your thoughts and discussing how striving for perfection affects our sewing practice.
Christine Haynes tells us all about her epic move NYC, her new job as manager of Purl Soho, and her plans for her pattern line, Christine Haynes patterns. We loved chatting about this new chapter of her life and hearing all about how she got here. Christine reminds us that it is OK to stop and evaluate where we are at in order to keep moving forward.
Sewcializing = sewing + socializing! Today we’re chatting all about the different ways sewists connect online. We cover everything from Instagram etiquette to our favourite Facebook groups. We also confess how many times a day we check Instagram, and how many people we follow! A great episode if you’re new to the sewing community or just looking for a new way to interact with fellow makers.
Katie Marcus from What Katie Sews shares how she learned to sew, her favourite makes and patterns, and her passion for sustainability through sewing. Katie has a modern approach to sewing, focusing on wearable makes that reflect her strong sense of style. We loved getting to know Katie and we hope you do too!
Learn how we organize our fabrics, what we like to stash, how our partners feel about it, and what to do with unwanted items. Together we confess how much fabric we are each hoarding and come to realize that it’s OK to collect fabric as part of a sewing practice. Do you have a growing fabric stash? Listen to this episode for great tips (and maybe a little bit of moral support) when it comes to organizing and managing a fabric collection.
Jenny Rushmore of Cashmerette Patterns comes on the show to talk about her sewing journey, her business, and the Curvy Sewing Collective. She also tells us the story of #cakewithcashmerette, and how sewing has helped her to love and accept her body, and inspire others to do the same.
You're going to get to know us in this episode! We’re talking about how and when we learned to sew, why we love it so much, what we do every day, and how we met. Helen makes a big announcement about her business. Caroline tells the story behind the name of her online shop. We wrap up with a rapid-fire random question session – complete with lots of laughs and some embarrassing confessions.
Helen Wilkinson and Caroline Somos host Love to Sew, a fun weekly podcast about making clothes, sewing community, and small business. They talk (and laugh) about their passion for sewing a handmade wardrobe and their daily lives as creative entrepreneurs. Listen to interviews with indie business owners and inspiring sewists who totally understand your obsession with sewing. Join us every Tuesday for new episodes of Love to Sew!
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.