The Sewcial Hour Podcast

Episode 21: The Great Sewing Machine Debate

Episode 21: The Great Sewing Machine DebateThe Sewcial Hour PodcastIt’s time to talk about the workhorse of every sewing room, the sewing machine! In this episode, Bethany and Audra dive into all things sewing machines: how to choose the right one, what features really matter, and how to keep your machine running like a dream.Whether you’re shopping for your first machine, eyeing an upgrade, or just love geeking out over machine features, this episode is packed with tips for every sewist. We’ll cover everything from buying basics (new, used, vintage) to matching machine features to your sewing style: garment sewing, quilting, bag making, embroidery, and beyond.Plus, we break down the difference between must-have features vs. fun extras, share our favorite buying tips, and discuss the importance of servicing and maintenance (spoiler: it’s more often than you think!).In our Stitch & Share segment, we show off recent makes, and as always, we wrap up with our “You Love to See It” favorites of the week. 🎉💬 Icebreaker: What was your first sewing machine—and do you still have it? Share your story in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram!✨ Next week, we’re chatting with Dee Bushrod of Pixel Quilts - you don’t want to miss this one.💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 20: Sewing with Unconventional Materials

Episode 20: Sewing with Unconventional MaterialsThis week, we’re thinking outside the fabric store! Join Bethany and Audra as we dive into the world of sewing with unconventional materials—from thrifted treasures to household odds and ends, nothing is off-limits.We kick things off with a fun icebreaker: What’s the weirdest or most unexpected material you’ve ever sewn with? (Bethany’s answer might surprise you!) Then we explore why stepping outside traditional textiles can spark creativity, save money, and even help the planet.We take a deep dive into upcycling, sharing tips for sourcing secondhand fabrics, tools for harvesting usable material, and ideas for turning old clothes and linens into fresh, functional projects. From sewing with cardstock to transforming sweatshirts into stylish bags, this episode is all about rethinking what’s possible at your sewing machine.Plus, we shine the spotlight on two inspiring makers: 🧵 @sariditty (Sarah Thomas, Moda Designer – High Flight) ♻️ @sullysupcycled (Karen Sullivan, Upcycling Advocate)And in our “You Love to See It” segment, we celebrate the return of Project Runway and throw some love toward our fellow anti-quilt-police sewists. 👏💬 We’d love to hear about the wildest thing you’ve ever sewn with! Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram.🧵 Next week: The Ultimate Sewing Machine Debate – you won’t want to miss it!💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 19: Sewing on a Budget – Create More, Spend Less

Episode 19: Sewing on a Budget – Create More, Spend LessSewing doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby! In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra are diving into their favorite money-saving strategies, thrifty sewing hacks, and honest talk about resisting the pressure to “buy it all.” Whether you’re just getting started or trying to rein in your fabric budget, we’ve got tips to help you stitch smarter—not spendier.From DIY ironing tables and porcupine quills (yes, really) to remnant bins and resale goldmines, we’re sharing what works, what’s worth the investment, and how to make the most of what you already have.Icebreaker: What’s the most surprisingly cheap or free sewing tool you’ve ever loved? Join the convo in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group and tell us yours!In This Episode:How to prioritize sewing tools without breaking the bankWhere to score affordable fabrics and notionsTips for organizing your scraps and purging with purposeA beginner-friendly mindset for building your stash slowly and intentionallySpool School Tips:Audra: Create a scrap system that works for youBethany: Do an annual or bi-annual purge - resell, donate, or just let it goYou Love to See It: Bethany’s sewing retreat sold out in under 5 minutes (!), and Audra shares the joy of bringing a forgotten remnant back to life.Next Week: Get ready for Episode 20: Sewing with Unconventional Materials—because candy wrappers, placemats, and billboard vinyl are fair game!Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group!Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 18: Siah Swag Bags – with Guests Kassiah & Susan

Episode 18: Siah Swag Bags – with Guests Kassiah & SusanThis week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re joined by the powerhouse sister duo behind Siah Swag Bags: Kassiah Myers and Susan Thiriot! What started as a handmade hustle has grown into a beloved brand known for vibrant bag-making content, must-have supplies, and community-fueled creativity.We chat all about their journey from craft fairs and classroom teaching to running a thriving sewing business with a devoted YouTube following, Patreon crew, and live teaching events across the country. From industrial thread to industrial machines, these ladies are living the bag-making dream and bringing sewists along for the ride with their “Sew-in the States” and “Swag Dash” series.Of course, things got off track (in the best way), as Kassiah and Susan kept us laughing and swapping stories throughout the episode. We dive into favorite and least favorite bag fabrics, what it’s like to work with family, and what advice they’d give to fellow creatives carving out their own sewing path.Thread Talk: We put our guests on the spot to share a hot take!Icebreaker: What’s your favorite, and least favorite, bag-making fabric? Share your take in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group under today’s episode thread!You’ll also hear:Why directional fabrics can be a sneaky challengeHow community has fueled their successWhat it really takes to run a creative business (hint: sisterly teamwork!)Connect with Siah Swag Bags: Siah Swag Bags WebsiteYouTube: Siah Swag BagsPatreonFacebook Group – Siah Swag BagsInstagram: @siahswagbags✉️ Email: siahswagbags@gmail.comFREE Safari Duffle Bag Pattern: https://sew4home.com/our-sew4home-classic-safari-duffle/Coming Up Next: Episode 19: Sewing on a BudgetDon't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on social for all the latest updates.Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/

Episode 17: Fabric Fundamentals for Sewing Bags

Episode 17: Fabric Fundamentals for Sewing Bags - Choosing the Right Material for the JobWhether you're stitching up your first tote or crafting your 50th clutch, choosing the right fabric can make or break your bag-making experience. In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra break down the essential fabric know-how every bag maker needs, from structure and durability to style and stitchability.We’re sharing our favorite materials for different bag types, tips for handling specialty textiles like cork and vinyl, and the inside scoop on what fabrics not to use if you want your bag to last more than a weekend.Icebreaker: What’s your go-to bag style? Bethany loves a hands-free crossbody, while Audra says… why choose just one? Share your faves in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group!In This Episode:Why fabric choice matters (woven vs. non-woven, structure, and directional prints)How to work with specialty fabrics: cork, vinyl, waxed canvas, quilting cotton & moreBest fabrics for different bag styles: totes, purses, backpacks, pouches, and upcycled designsWhat to keep in mind when using interfacing or stabilizersCreative tips for mixing textures, colors, and using leftover scraps for matching accessoriesStitch & Share:Bethany’s deep in quilting mode, while Audra’s stitching up a summer halter jumpsuit.You Love to See It:Bethany celebrates her son’s first job (proud mom moment!), and Audra’s giving Dave some well-earned appreciation for his podcast support.Next Week: We’re chatting with the founders of Siah Swag Bags, Kassiah and Susan, don’t miss it!Stay connected:Subscribe to the show, leave us a review, and follow along on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t forget to share your latest bag project in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group. We’d love to cheer you on! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/