The Sewing Social

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What happens when a passion for sewing grows into a platform designed to help sewists make more sustainable choices?
In this episode of The Sewing Social, Caroline Bacle joins us to talk about her journey from Montreal to London, her love of sewing and dressmaking, and the story behind Destasher - a platform created to help sewists give unwanted fabrics, sewing patterns, haberdashery and other sewing supplies a second life.
Caroline shares how her own experiences as a sewist led her to think differently about the amount of fabric and sewing supplies we accumulate, and how Destasher has grown into a community where sewists can buy, sell, share and discover materials that might otherwise go unused.
We chat about sustainable sewing, slow fashion, fabric destashing and the sewing community, as well as the challenges of building a platform around a community of people who love to make their own clothes.

In this episode, we talk about:
Caroline's journey from Montreal to London
How she discovered her passion for sewing and dressmaking
The story behind Destasher
Why sewists end up with so much fabric and sewing stash
Fabric destashing and giving unwanted materials a second life
The connection between sewing, slow fashion and conscious consumption
Building a community around sewing and making
The challenges of creating a platform for the sewing community
Why sharing resources can be an important part of more sustainable sewing
What she has learned from the sewing community along the way
The future of Destasher and where Caroline hopes to take it next

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Instagram: @destasher_uk
Website: www.destasher.co.uk

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Caroline Bacle and her sewing journey
00:52 How lockdown sparked Caroline’s passion for sewing
02:03 The story behind Destasher and its community focus
02:59 Upcoming sewing events and initiatives
04:09 Tips for managing your sewing stash
05:06 The importance of sustainability and storytelling in textiles
06:00 Caroline’s future vision for Destasher
07:04 Closing thoughts and how to connect with Caroline

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, Lydia Finney (known online as "Lovely Lydia") talks about her journey into fabric printing, dressmaking and making clothes, exploring the technical skills and creative processes behind her work.
We chat about combining traditional sewing and textile techniques with modern creativity, developing confidence as a maker, and why craft should be accessible and inclusive to everyone - whatever your experience or skill level.
From fabric design and printing to dressmaking and the realities of learning new sewing skills, Lydia shares what she has discovered along the way and what continues to inspire her as a maker.
Whether you're new to sewing, an experienced dressmaker, or simply interested in fabric and textiles, this episode is full of inspiration and practical insight.

Key Topics: 

Lydia's transition from civil service to fabric printing and dressmaking
The importance of technical skills in sewing and printing
How to combine fabric printing with garment making
The role of colour and pattern in personal style
Opportunities for craft education and inclusivity in the community
The process of lino and woodblock printing for textiles
Upcycling garments with fabric printing
Overcoming self-doubt and celebrating craft achievements

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Instagram: @lovely_._lydia
                  : @she_who_sews
Website: www.lovelylydia.co.uk

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction to Lydia Finney and her creative background
04:05 Discovering vintage Bernina and early sewing experiences
07:22 The technical complexity of dressmaking and its artistry
08:08 The reality of making mistakes and sharing imperfect work
09:23 The importance of craftsmanship in mass-produced clothing
11:22 Lydia's career before craft and her move to Suffolk
12:47 Everyone's creative potential and opportunities for craft
14:02 The accessibility of lino and block printing for beginners
15:52 Tools and techniques for lino and woodblock printing
16:39 The joy of teaching and inspiring all ages in craft
17:25 Access to craft
20:58 Lydia's first lino design and inspiration from Suffolk
22:28 Creating unique garments with fabric printing
24:28 Combining fabric printing with sewing for custom designs
27:24 Fixing fabric paint and tools for printing
28:34 The process of creating lino designs and tools needed
31:47 Safety tips for lino carving and craft tools
32:36 Natural fabrics versus synthetics for printing
33:25 The role of colour in Lydia's creative life
34:45 Upcoming projects and workshops with Lydia

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David Olaniyi joins The Sewing Social Podcast to share the story behind his journey from dance to fashion and tailoring, and how his creative background has shaped the way he designs today.
David talks openly about his experience on Dress the Nation with Marks & Spencer, the challenges of putting his tailoring skills to the test, and what it takes to build a career in the fashion industry.
Known for blending streetwear with traditional tailoring, David also takes us behind the scenes of his creative process - from developing ideas and finding his signature style to navigating the realities of working as a tailor and designer.
In this episode, we explore tailoring, menswear, and fashion design, as David shares what he’s learned so far and where he wants to take his craft next.

Key Topics: 

David's transition from dance to tailoring
His experience on Dress the Nation and winning the competition
The concept of structured streetwear blending tailoring and street style
The process of designing and creating a collection for Marks and Spencer's
Inspiration from Japanese fashion and travel influences
The importance of technical skills like tailoring in streetwear design
Future plans including moving to Japan for 3 months and learning new techniques
The role of confidence and spontaneity in creative success

Follow me: 
Website: http://www.thedalythreadstudio - website will soon be live! 
I will be teaching anyone who wants to learn how to sew in the Nottingham area and beyond! 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details:
Website: https://www.davidolaniyi.co.uk
Instagram: @bydavidolaniyi
Tiktok: @bydavidolaniyi

Bespoke Tailoring Course - Newham College:
https://newham.ac.uk/course/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/

Kapital - Pillow Bomber Jacket: 
https://www.kapital.jp/
Instagram: @kapitalglobal

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and David’s background in dance and fashion
01:01 How David’s dance career led to an interest in tailoring
02:27 Learning to sew and construct garments from wardrobe staff
04:06 Transition from dance to professional tailoring and fashion
05:34 Winning Dress the Nation and the application process
10:37 The intense process of TV casting and experience on the show
11:46 Lessons learned from winning the competition
13:50 Favorite pieces from the show and designing for the final collection
16:51 Post-show career, working at Marks and Spencer’s, and design philosophy
28:43 Inspiration sources including travel and Japanese fashion
30:01 Deconstructing a Japanese jacket and future plans
32:23 Game of this or that: style preferences and techniques
34:26 Where to find David online and upcoming projects

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Jane Harbison, founder of Jane Harbison Design, to explore her inspiring journey into the world of dressmaking, sewing pattern design and creative entrepreneurship. 
Jane shares how she followed her passion for sewing, identified a gap in the market for men's and boys' sewing patterns, and built a business around helping more people enjoy making their own clothes.
We chat about the importance of the creative process, why sewing is about so much more than the finished garment, and how handmade projects can become meaningful gifts that tell a story. 
Jane also shares her thoughts on designing accessible sewing patterns, nurturing creativity and building confidence through making.
Whether you're interested in dressmaking, sewing patterns for men and boys, handmade gifts, or you're dreaming of turning your creative hobby into a business, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice and thoughtful conversation.

In this episode, we discuss:
Jane's journey from accounting to sewing pattern designer.
Creating sewing patterns for men and boys.
Finding gaps in the sewing pattern market.
The joy of the creative process and handmade sewing.
Building a creative business around your passion.
Why handmade garments and gifts tell a unique story.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: Jane Harbison Design - https://janeharbison.com.au/ 
Instagram: @JaneHarbisonDesign 
Pinterest: Jane Harbison Design - https://au.pinterest.com/janeharbison/
Skool: The Pocket Square Club - https://www.skool.com/the-pocket-square-club-3733/about?sc=1
YouTube: Jane Harbison Design - https://www.youtube.com/@janeharbisondesignau
Creative Process document: 
https://janeharbison.com.au/blogs/puckerup-sewing-blog/how-to-give-gifts-that-speak-their-love-languages

Other Information: 
Destasher Summer Destash event - https://www.destasher.co.uk/blog/summer-stash-reset

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What does it take to create beautifully fitting garments? 
In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Helen Shine, an expert pattern cutter whose impressive career has seen her work with renowned fashion brands including Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen and many more.
Helen shares her journey from the world of high-end fashion to running her own pattern cutting workshops, sewing retreats and dressmaking courses in Cornwall.
We explore the art of pattern cutting, why achieving a great fit is about so much more than standard sizing, and how understanding garment construction can transform your sewing.
We also discuss sustainable fashion, creating clothes that are made to last, and Helen's specialist work designing bespoke wedding dress patterns, helping brides bring their dream gowns to life.
Whether you're passionate about dressmaking, sewing your own clothes, pattern cutting or improving the fit of your handmade wardrobe, this episode is packed with inspiration, expert advice and practical insights.

In this episode, we discuss:
Helen's career working with leading fashion brands, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen.
The fundamentals of pattern cutting and garment construction.
Why fit is the key to creating clothes you'll love to wear.
Sustainable fashion and making garments that last.
Pattern cutting workshops and sewing retreats in Cornwall.
Designing bespoke wedding dress patterns and bridal wear.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: www.dotncross.com
Instagram: @dot.n.cross
Links: 
Dot n Cross Pattern Cutting Retreats in Cornwall: https://dotncross.com/retreats - I forgot to mention that the retreat location is a 15 minutes taxi journey from Penzance train station, which has direct links to many of the major cities.
1-1 Wedding dress workshop: https://dotncross.com/make-your-own-wedding-dress-class
Group sewing and pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/group-sewing-classes-cornwall
1-1 pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/pattern-cutting-workshops
Link to Vogue article about the Cate Blanchett dress, designed by Mary Katrantzou: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/cate-blanchetts-mary-katrantzou-cannes-dress

Chapters: 
00:10 Helen Shine: A Journey into Pattern Cutting
04:48 Education and Early Career in Fashion
10:07 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design
10:18 Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching
15:00 Establishing Dot and Cross: Workshops and Community
17:51 Exploring Unique Retreats in Cornwall
23:20 In-Depth Wedding Dress Pattern Cutting Classes
27:42 The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society
31:57 The Dress for Cate Blanchett
34:34 Engineering Prints in Fashion
35:50 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design
36:04 Future Plans and Exciting Developments
41:31 Join my Substack