The Sewing Social

From Civil Service to Sewing: Lydia Finney on Fabric Printing and the Art of Making

Send us Fan MailIn 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 dressmakingThe importance of technical skills in sewing and printingHow to combine fabric printing with garment makingThe role of colour and pattern in personal styleOpportunities for craft education and inclusivity in the communityThe process of lino and woodblock printing for textilesUpcycling garments with fabric printingOvercoming self-doubt and celebrating craft achievementsFollow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, 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/@thesewingsocialAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPODSew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPODGuest Details: Instagram: @lovely_._lydia                  : @she_who_sewsWebsite: www.lovelylydia.co.ukChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lydia Finney and her creative background04:05 Discovering vintage Bernina and early sewing experiences07:22 The technical complexity of dressmaking and its artistry08:08 The reality of making mistakes and sharing imperfect work09:23 The importance of craftsmanship in mass-produced clothing11:22 Lydia's career before craft and her move to Suffolk12:47 Everyone's creative potential and opportunities for craft14:02 The accessibility of lino and block printing for beginners15:52 Tools and techniques for lino and woodblock printing16:39 The joy of teaching and inspiring all ages in craft17:25 Access to craft20:58 Lydia's first lino design and inspiration from Suffolk22:28 Creating unique garments with fabric printing24:28 Combining fabric printing with sewing for custom designs27:24 Fixing fabric paint and tools for printing28:34 The process of creating lino designs and tools needed31:47 Safety tips for lino carving and craft tools32:36 Natural fabrics versus synthetics for printing33:25 The role of colour in Lydia's creative life34:45 Upcoming projects and workshops with Lydia 

From Tailoring to Sewing on TV: David Olaniyi's Dress The Nation Journey

Send us Fan MailDavid 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 tailoringHis experience on Dress the Nation and winning the competitionThe concept of structured streetwear blending tailoring and street styleThe process of designing and creating a collection for Marks and Spencer'sInspiration from Japanese fashion and travel influencesThe importance of technical skills like tailoring in streetwear designFuture plans including moving to Japan for 3 months and learning new techniquesThe role of confidence and spontaneity in creative successFollow 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                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, 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/@thesewingsocialAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPODSew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPODGuest Details:Website: https://www.davidolaniyi.co.ukInstagram: @bydavidolaniyiTiktok: @bydavidolaniyiBespoke 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: @kapitalglobalChapters00:00 Introduction and David’s background in dance and fashion01:01 How David’s dance career led to an interest in tailoring02:27 Learning to sew and construct garments from wardrobe staff04:06 Transition from dance to professional tailoring and fashion05:34 Winning Dress the Nation and the application process10:37 The intense process of TV casting and experience on the show11:46 Lessons learned from winning the competition13:50 Favorite pieces from the show and designing for the final collection16:51 Post-show career, working at Marks and Spencer’s, and design philosophy28:43 Inspiration sources including travel and Japanese fashion30:01 Deconstructing a Japanese jacket and future plans32:23 Game of this or that: style preferences and techniques34:26 Where to find David online and upcoming projects

Designing Sewing Patterns for Men & Boys with Jane Harbison - Creativity, Dressmaking & Handmade Style

Send us Fan MailIn 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                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, 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/@thesewingsocialAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPODSew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPODGuest 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=1YouTube: Jane Harbison Design - https://www.youtube.com/@janeharbisondesignauCreative Process document: https://janeharbison.com.au/blogs/puckerup-sewing-blog/how-to-give-gifts-that-speak-their-love-languagesOther Information: Destasher Summer Destash event - https://www.destasher.co.uk/blog/summer-stash-reset

Mastering Pattern Cutting: Helen Shine of Dot n Cross on Dressmaking, Fit and High End Fashion

Send us Fan MailWhat 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                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, 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/@thesewingsocialAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPODSew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPODGuest Details: Website: www.dotncross.comInstagram: @dot.n.crossLinks: 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-classGroup sewing and pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/group-sewing-classes-cornwall1-1 pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/pattern-cutting-workshopsLink to Vogue article about the Cate Blanchett dress, designed by Mary Katrantzou: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/cate-blanchetts-mary-katrantzou-cannes-dressChapters: 00:10 Helen Shine: A Journey into Pattern Cutting04:48 Education and Early Career in Fashion10:07 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design10:18 Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching15:00 Establishing Dot and Cross: Workshops and Community17:51 Exploring Unique Retreats in Cornwall23:20 In-Depth Wedding Dress Pattern Cutting Classes27:42 The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society31:57 The Dress for Cate Blanchett34:34 Engineering Prints in Fashion35:50 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design36:04 Future Plans and Exciting Developments41:31 Join my Substack

From Family Fabric Shop to Online Sewing Success with Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to grow a family fabric business that has stood the test of time?In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics to chat about her family's remarkable 26-year journey in the fabric industry. From running a traditional fabric shop to embracing the world of online retail, Kayleigh shares how the business has evolved while staying true to its passion for quality fabrics and exceptional customer service.We also discuss the importance of authenticity on social media, the incredible community that surrounds sewing, and why encouraging new sewists is so important to her. Along the way, Kayleigh shares the touching story behind her work creating tiny stockings for babies in neonatal units, and how sewing can be a powerful way to bring comfort and connection.Whether you're looking for tips on choosing dressmaking fabrics, curious about the story behind one of the UK's best-loved fabric shops, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring conversations about creativity, community and sewing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.In this episode, we discuss:The story behind 1st For Fabrics and its 26-year family history.How the fabric industry has changed over the years.Choosing the right dressmaking fabrics with confidence.Building an authentic presence on social media.Supporting new sewists and growing the sewing community.Kayleigh's inspiring neonatal stocking project.Creativity, community and the joy of sewing.Follow me: Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod                     @thedalythreadTiktok: thesewingsocialpodIf you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpodAlso, 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/@thesewingsocialAffiliate Links:Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPODSew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPODGuest Details: Website: www.1stforfabrics.co.ukInstagram: @1stforfabricsChapters00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh and First of Fabrics02:13 The origins of the family business in the North East04:23 Adapting to market changes and online sales06:00 Advice for first-time sewists and beginners11:52 The story behind bag kits and limited fabrics15:01 Kayleigh's sewing journey and personal story19:53 Charitable sewing: neonatal stockings for charity22:05 Social media tips for small businesses24:00 Upcoming plans and quick fire questions