Sew What's New? In the biscuit tin

Join us in this episode as we chat with Leena Norms about her journey into sustainable fashion, her sewing projects, and managing a creative wardrobe. If you're passionate about eco-friendly practices, body positivity, and embracing your craft, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories.
Leena Norms’ background and evolution from marketing to full-time content creator

The role of sewing in environmental sustainability and mindful consumption

Strategies for flexible patterns and adaptable garments for changing bodies

Navigating fabric and pattern choices to reflect personal style and body flux

Managing fabric and clothing stashes mindfully and avoiding overconsumption

Ideas for creative reuse: turning worn-out clothes into bags, quilts, or other keepsakes

The psychology and dopamine cycle behind fabric shopping and sewing projects

Incorporating vintage and secondhand shopping as sustainable and meaningful habits

00:00 - Introduction to Leena Norms and her journey into sewing and sustainability
02:49 - Leena discusses her background in marketing and transition to sewing full-time
09:17 - The importance of sewing for climate consciousness and ethical fashion choices
10:52 - How body changes influence sewing patterns and garment adjustments
12:36 - The value of vintage shopping and secondhand clothing in sustainable wardrobe planning
15:23 - Patterns recommended for adaptable fit and growing bodies—Suvi Kaftan and Henrietta Skirt
20:21 - Handling fabric stash growth responsibly and the psychology behind fabric buying
25:00 - How to repurpose beloved but ill-fitting garments into bags or decor
30:00 - Patterns and projects for the busy sewist or those needing quick projects
35:34 - The importance of sewing for joy and mental well-being, not just productivity
42:33 - Tools and apps to organize your wardrobe and fabric collection effectively
50:54 - The concept of deadstock fabric and its implications in sustainable fashion
58:37 - Ethical shopping: supporting local, small businesses, and conscious consumption
61:41 - Final thoughts on balancing creative passion with environmental responsibility
Leena Norms on YouTube – Sustainable fashion, sewing tutorials, and style tips

Indyx– Wardrobe organization and outfit planning tool

Henrietta Skirt Pattern by Spaghetti Western – Versatile pattern for various fabrics and sizes

Suvi Kaftan and Dress Pattern – Adjustable, inclusive fits for evolving bodies

Big Four Pattern Brands – Recognized for their extensive range but know their limitations

Vintage and Secondhand Fashion Platforms – Secondhand shopping, vintage finds, and sustainable fashion

https://www.youtube.com/@leenanorms

The role of pattern adaptability in body flux management

Creative ways to signify sentimental clothing, like transforming into bags

How sewing can serve as a mindfulness practice, reducing overconsumption and fostering joy

Main Topics:Timeline Highlights:Resources & Recommendations:Connect with Leena Norms:Additional Insights: Thank you for listening! For questions, comments, or topic suggestions, reach out via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sewwhatsnewpod/ or email us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations on sustainable creativity and mindful living.

Hey everyone
Today's episode was record on 20th March 2026 on the Stitch stage at the business design centre in London.
Thank you to all the wonderful people who attended.
Thank you to Kate of Ripper Seams for being our guest.
We hope you enjoy this episode where we keep it real. We share sewing dilemmas and confessions.

In this episode, hosts Samantha and Jess explore the concept of fabric stashing, its cultural implications, and how it relates to identity and consumer habits in the sewing community. They share personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips for supporting independent businesses while managing fabric collections.

Sew What's New Podcast - https://sewwhatsnewpodcast.com
Support Endometriosis UK - https://www.endometriosis-uk.org
Liberty Fabrics - https://www.libertylondon.com
Wilder Fabrics - https://wilderfabrics.com
Sew me Sunshine Fabric Shop - https://sewmesunshine.com
Jay Cots Fabrics - https://jaysfabrics.co.uk
William G Fabrics - https://williamg.co.uk
 guest links
Instagram - https://instagram.com/sewwhatsnew

YouTube - https://youtube.com/sewwhatsnew
Email - [email protected]

 keywords
sewing, fabric stash, sewing community, independent shops, fabric buying habits, sewing tips, mental health and sewing, sustainable sewing, sewing hobbies, fabric shopping
 key  topics
The evolution of the term 'stash' in sewing culture
The psychological and social reasons for fabric collecting
Impact of COVID-19 on fabric shopping and sewing community
Supporting independent fabric shops and online resources
Strategies for managing fabric stash and supporting sustainable sewing
 
 sound bites
"Fabric stashing is not a personality."
"Anton Dubèche is coming to a VIP event for fundraisers."
"Nothing will beat the prep I did for the sleeve episode."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode
03:06 Exciting Events and Community Engagement
05:52 Sewing and Running: A Unique Community
08:54 Personal Highlights and Upcoming Events
11:57 Fabric Choices and Creative Processes
14:58 Seam Allowances: A Deep Dive
23:56 Main Topic: Fabric Stashing is Not a Personality
25:36 The Evolution of Fabric Stashing
28:03 The Impact of COVID on Fabric Buying
30:00 Navigating the Online Fabric Shopping Experience
34:01 The Dilemma of Excess Fabric
38:00 Conscious Making and Wardrobe Planning
43:01 Supporting Independent Fabric Shops
45:59 The Psychology of Fabric Buying
49:55 Creating a Creative Breathing Space
 resources

In this episode, Jess and Sam welcome Ruana, the Yorkshire Sew Girl, to discuss a variety of topics ranging from biscuits to sewing. They explore the significance of the biscuit question as an icebreaker, share personal stories about their sewing journeys, and delve into the challenges and joys of sewing during lockdown. The conversation also touches on the divisive topic of zero waste patterns, the guilt associated with fabric scraps, and the importance of intentional fabric buying. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the supportive nature of the sewing community and the personal connections that enhance the craft. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the journey of sewing, emphasizing the importance of community, the learning process, and the joy of creating. They discuss the challenges faced by beginners, the significance of embracing mistakes, and the value of choosing the right patterns. The dialogue highlights the social aspects of sewing, the need for patience, and the excitement of personal style development. The speakers also touch on the concept of 'adventurous beginner' and the importance of celebrating progress in one's sewing journey.

Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
06:02 Biscuit Preferences and Personalities
12:05 Learning to Sew: The Early Days
18:00 Starting a YouTube Channel and Community Engagement
24:51 The Debate on Wearability and Style
33:37 The Social Side of Sewing
41:46 Connecting with the Sewing Community
48:05 Navigating the Beginner's Journey in Sewing
55:57 The Importance of Skill Development
01:10:54 Celebrating Progress and Community in Sewing

In this episode of 'So What's New in the Biscuit Tin', hosts Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding sewing, fashion, and community engagement. They discuss the concept of sack dresses, listener feedback on their previous episodes, and the importance of hobbies outside of sewing. The conversation also touches on upcoming events, personal milestones, and the intersection of fashion and body politics, emphasizing the need for self-expression and comfort in clothing choices. In this episode, Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding fashion, body image, and the sewing community. They discuss the rise of conservative fashion trends, the importance of comfort in clothing choices, and the significance of understanding others' fashion decisions. The conversation also delves into the concept of zero waste patterns, the frustrations of inconsistent seam allowances in patterns, and the implications of red carpet fashion. Finally, they provide insights on building connections within the sewing community, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and forming friendships.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Season Overview
02:13 Discussion on Sack Dresses
03:34 Listener Feedback and Community Engagement
06:31 Exploring Other Hobbies
10:15 Upcoming Events and Announcements
15:43 Celebrating Milestones and Achievements
21:49 Sewing Projects and Personal Reflections
24:49 Celebrating Creativity in Sewing
25:27 The Great British Sewing Bee and Zero Waste Patterns
26:57 The Backlash Against Zero Waste Fashion
29:45 Fashion, Comfort, and Body Politics
32:53 The Politics of Fashion and Body Image
35:18 Fashion as a Political Statement
37:44 The Role of Zero Waste Patterns in Fashion
39:46 Personal Choices in Fashion and Body Representation
50:05 Rants and Reflections on Pattern Making
51:22 Understanding Seam Allowances in Patterns
56:33 Fashion Trends and Red Carpet Looks
01:03:10 Building Connections in the Sewing Community