The Sewing Social

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In this episode of The Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Jen Legg, a much-loved, colourful sewist and well-known voice in the sewing community. 
Jen shares her sewing journey, her unmistakable love of sewing and wearing jumpsuits, and how she makes projects that truly work for her lifestyle.
The conversation explores the emotional connection we build with our handmade wardrobes, embracing colour and personal style, and sewing with joint pain and arthritis—including the practical adaptations Jen uses to keep making comfortably.
They also chat about the Sew Recreate the Look challenge, Jen’s growing YouTube journey, and wrap up with a lively rapid-fire question round for some light-hearted fun.

Key Takeaways:

Sewing has always been a part of Jen's life.
Her first project was a lace top.
Jen has made over 100 jumpsuits.
She finds inspiration mainly from fabric.
Memories are often tied to her makes.
Colour has always been important to her wardrobe.
Managing arthritis is a challenge in sewing.
The Sew Recreate the Look challenge encourages creativity.
YouTube has been a new but rewarding journey for Jen.
Sewing is therapeutic for Jen. 

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Guest details:
Instagram: @jenleggsews
Youtube: Jen Legg (@jenleggsews)
Tiktok: @jenleggsews4

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction 
00:47 Jen's Sewing Journey
02:37 The Love for Jumpsuits
04:29 Project Planning and Inspiration
06:25 Memorable Makes and Emotional Connections
09:08 The Colourful Wardrobe
12:52 Managing Arthritis in Sewing
15:56 The Sew Recreate the Look Challenge
20:19 Embracing YouTube: A Personal Journey
23:10 Future Plans and Sustainable Sewing
25:21 Fun and Games: This or That
29:19 Outro

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In this inspiring episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Susan Young, a highly respected figure in the sewing community, to explore her lifelong passion for sewing and fashion. 
Sue shares her journey from learning to sew as a child to building a successful career in bridal wear, education, and community leadership.
Throughout the conversation, Sue reflects on her love of teaching sewing skills, the importance of accurate fabric handling, and why technical knowledge is just as vital as creativity. 
She also celebrates the power of colour in fashion and speaks candidly about the need for greater visibility and representation of older women within the modern sewing world.
Listeners will enjoy hearing about Sue's work with sewing publications, her role in organising local sewing groups, and the excitement and community spirit behind hosting Frocktails events. 
Packed with practical sewing tips, industry insight, and heartfelt encouragement, this episode is a must-listen for dressmakers, textile lovers, and sewing enthusiasts of all levels.

Key Takeaways:
Sue's sewing journey began in childhood, fueled by curiosity.
Accurate cutting is crucial for successful sewing projects.
Embracing colour can enhance personal style and confidence.
Visibility for older women in the sewing community is essential.
Local sewing groups foster connection and support among sewists.
Frocktails events celebrate the sewing community and creativity.
Respect for fabric is important, regardless of cost.
Personal style evolves with confidence and experience.
Sewing allows for individual expression and creativity.

Follow me: 
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If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
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Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
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Guest details:
Instagram: @susanyoungsewing
                     @londonfrocktails - Tickets go live on 31/01/26!
Blog: https://susanyoungsewing.wordpress.com

Chapters
00:00 The Sewing Journey Begins
02:37 Career Path in Sewing
08:36 Embracing Colour and Personal Style
15:31 Visibility and Representation in Sewing
20:36 Community Connections and Socials
29:42 The Power of In-Person Connections
30:36 Organising Frocktails Events
33:15 Success and Challenges of Frocktails
34:59 Future Plans for Frocktails
36:52 Personal Style and Sewing Preferences
41:48 Sewing for Loved Ones
44:32 This or That: Fun Rapid Fire Questions
53:13 Thready Set Go discount code

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In this episode of The Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Mark Francis, a fan-favourite contestant from The Great British Sewing Bee, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, confidence and cloth. 
Mark traces his sewing journey from early experiments at school to the national spotlight of the Sewing Bee, reflecting on the challenges of the competition and how the experience shaped both his self-belief and creative career.
The conversation explores the powerful connection between sewing and mental health, with Mark sharing how making became a source of calm, expression and resilience. 
He also dives into his love of Doctor Who fashion, discussing how sci-fi costume and storytelling influence his designs. 
Looking ahead, Mark reveals his future plans in the sewing world, including pattern design, commissions and creative projects, making this episode a must-listen for sewing enthusiasts, makers and fans of thoughtful, feel-good creativity.

Key Takeaways: 
Mark Francis was a contestant on the Great British Sewing Bee in 2020.
His interest in sewing began in school during home economics classes.
Mark's husband Clive reignited his interest in sewing while preparing for their wedding.
Sewing education in schools is often underfunded and lacks resources.
Mark has been involved in community projects to teach sewing in underprivileged schools.
He applied to the Sewing Bee after encouragement from Clive, despite only sewing for two years.
The Sewing Bee experience helped boost Mark's confidence in his sewing skills.
Mark's sewing patterns are inspired by his personal makes and the lack of menswear options.
Doctor Who has significantly influenced Mark's design style and patterns.
Mark continues to work on commissions and plans to teach and share his experiences at various events.

Follow me: 
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If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
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Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
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     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details: 
Website: www.sewmarkfrancis.com
Instagram: @sewmarkfrancis

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mark Francis and His Sewing Journey
08:01 The Impact of Sewing Bee on Mark's Life
16:46 Mental Health and Sewing: A Personal Perspective
23:40 Mark's Pattern Business and Future Aspirations
25:56 Networking and New Ventures in Sewing
27:49 Doctor Who: A Lifelong Influence on Design
30:16 The Evolution of Doctor Who's Wardrobe
33:29 Current Projects and Future Plans
36:24 The Role of Social Media in Creative Work
44:19 Upcycling and Repurposing: A Sustainable Approach
46:27 Where to Find Mark: Connecting with the Community
47:18 Outro

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In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with sewing and upcycling creator Paige Joanna Watts for an inspiring deep-dive into handmade fashion, creativity, and building a craft-based business. 
Paige shares how she fell in love with sewing, why valuing handmade clothing matters, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes at Friday Pattern Company. 
We chat about her passion for thrifting and creative upcycling, the projects she’s most excited about right now, and the launch of her adorable doll-making pattern brand, Podgekins. 
Paige also offers practical advice for sewists, upcyclers, and aspiring creative entrepreneurs looking to turn their craft into a sustainable business. 
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with sewing insights, upcycling ideas, and handmade business tips.

Key Takeaways:
Paige's love for sewing began with her grandmother's influence.
She emphasises the importance of valuing handmade items.
Working for Friday Pattern Company allows her to combine her passions.
Thrifting is a treasure hunt that promotes sustainable fashion.
Upcycling is a creative outlet for Paige, especially with jackets.
Launching Podgekins was a passion project with the idea born during lockdown.
She encourages others to share their creative journeys online.
Paige believes in charging what you're worth as a maker.
Future projects include more upcycled items and doll patterns.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
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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:
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Affiliate Links:
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     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details: 
Instagram: @paigejoannaa
Youtube: @paigejoannaa
Pinterest: @paigejoanna
Email: [email protected]

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the last show of the year!
01:27 Paige's Sewing Journey
04:35 The Value of Handmade Items
08:09 Working with Friday Pattern Company
13:00 The Importance of Secondhand Shopping
15:36 Thrift Flips and Upcycling Projects
18:15 Exploring Live Shopping Platforms
19:51 Finding Inspiration in Creativity
21:06 Evolving Personal Style
22:32 Launching a Doll Sewing Pattern Business
27:42 Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs
31:04 Upcoming Projects and Market Preparations
32:37 Fun This or That Game
36:00 Outro

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In this inspiring episode, host Gemma Daly sits down with Sharlene, founder of SO Sew Dressmaking, to dive into her creative journey — from a childhood surrounded by sewing to building a thriving dressmaking business and teaching community classes.
Sharlene talks about how her skills have evolved over the years, the challenges and triumphs of pattern drafting, and the excitement of launching her very own sewing pattern line. 
She also shares her thoughts on developing personal style, the power of a supportive sewing community, and the joy that comes from connecting with others through creative social events.
Throughout the conversation, Sharlene highlights the importance of carving out creative time for yourself, even in a busy life, and reflects on her experiences of growing within the sewing world.
If you love dressmaking, community, and real conversations about creativity, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧🧵✨

Key Takeaways
Sharlene's passion for sewing began in childhood, influenced by family.
Teaching sewing classes became a natural progression for Sharlene after studying fashion at University.
Sharlene's pattern line reflects her unique style and creativity.
Community engagement is vital in the sewing world.
Personal style evolves with experience and experimentation.
Sewing for yourself is essential for maintaining creativity.
Sharlene's journey highlights the importance of timing and opportunity.
Inspiration can come from various sources, including fashion history. 

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:
[email protected]

Guest Details: 
Website: www.sosewdressmaking.com
Instagram: @sosewdressmaking
Pinterest: sosewdressmaking
Youtube: Sharlene Oldroyd

*DISCOUNT CODE for 20% off patterns from So Sew Dressmaking: SEWINGSOCIALPOD (valid from 3rd - 17th December, T's and C's apply)

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to SO Sew Dressmaking
01:55 The Journey of a Passion for Sewing
06:38 Teaching and Community Engagement in Sewing
09:00 The Evolution of Sewing Classes
12:34 Pattern Drafting and Design Process
16:33 Launching a Pattern Line
19:51 Inspiration and Design Process
22:04 From Idea to Finished Product
25:50 Mastering Pattern Grading and Website Setup
28:26 Evolving Personal Style and Wardrobe Choices
31:46 The Importance of Creativity in Sewing
34:16 Understanding Colour Palettes and Fabric Choices
35:59 Building Community Through Stitch and Stretch Events
41:16 Future Plans and Creative Endeavours
48:09 Outro for Sharlene (Discount code)

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