Sew Mindful Podcast

Latest Episodes:

060: T-shirts: 5 Great Reasons to Make One Jul 08, 2023

Show notes

T-shirts are one of our wardrobe staples and there are 2 billion sold and bought every year. But I still struggle to buy them to fit me and in this episode I’ll share more about that and my 5 reasons why I think you should make your own so stay tuned.

Why are t-shirts so hard to buy?
Because my hips are a couple of sizes bigger than my bust, when I try to buy t-shirts I often find that if they fit at the shoulders, they are too tight, or at least tighter than I would like around my tummy and hips and if I size up so that they fit comfortably across my hips, then they look a bit tent like at the top.
I also like to match my t-shirt to the rest of my outfit, so getting just the right colour can also be a challenge. I think my mum had a skirt in her wardrobe for about a year, trying to find just the right colour t-shirt to go with it so maybe that’s a hereditary trait!
So before I get into my solution for my t-shirt buying problems (and spoiler alert, that’s the 5 great reasons to make one!) I wanted to share some interesting facts that I found out while doing some research for this little chat with you.
For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode60
If you have enjoyed this episode then remember to click 'follow' in your podcast app to get updates on any new episodes.
Sharing is caring - reviews
If you enjoy this episode please be sure to share it and to leave a review to help others find us.
Get in touch
I always love to hear about you trying out what you pick up from these episodes so do let me know:

by email to hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
by DM on Instagram https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
on the Sew Much More Fun Facebook Group

Thank you so much for listening and for all your support. x

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059: What's the right amount of ease for me? Jun 25, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever chosen a pattern for a garment that you really liked, followed the instructions to choose your size, made it up and then felt like it doesn't really fit in the way you imagined?
Well one reason for that could be that it doesn't match your ease preference. So what is your ease preference and how do you find it?
Well in this episode I'll walk you through the different types of ease and explain how they work together to create garments that suit your unique body shape and personal style.
Learn how to find and use finished garment measurements to help you choose the right pattern size, use the pinch test to gauge excess fabric, and tailor your ease preference to your body and style. I've also included a free guide and worksheets for you so click on the link from this episode to get access. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn more about the clothes in your wardrobe and how they can help you master the art of ease in garment making!

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Episode 58 - Making a twist-front dress Jun 17, 2023

Show notes

Ever struggled with sewing stretch fabrics or had a burning desire to create that perfect twist front dress? Well I would love to I share my experiences with you, inspired by Tilly and the Button's Stretch book, creating my first twist front dress using her Joni dress pattern.
For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode58
In this episode you will hear all about Tilly's book and the details of the Joni dress including the pattern size range, types of fabric to choose and the other notions and equipment you will need. I'll also give you my tips on the key areas of the construction that you may need to pay attention to.
But wait, there's more! I'll also reveal my personal pattern adjustments for a more customized fit, including altering the shoulder, neckline, and hemline of the dress, as well as modifying the sleeve pattern for extra fullness.
With accompanying photographs and video links available in the blog post (link below), you'll have everything you need to create a twist-front dress that's perfect for any occasion.
So, grab your sewing machine and let's get started!
For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode58
If you have enjoyed this episode then remember to click 'follow' in your podcast app to get updates on any new episodes.
Sharing is caring - reviews
If you enjoy this episode please be sure to share it and to leave a review to help others find us.
Get in touch
I always love to hear about you trying out what you pick up from these episodes so do let me know:

by email to hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
by DM on Instagram https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
on the Sew Much More Fun Facebook Group

Thank you so much for listening and for all your support. x

Support the show

057: Ever struggled to find the perfect fabric? Jun 10, 2023

Show notes

Ever struggled to find the perfect fabric for your sewing project? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Join us for a fascinating conversation with Diana and Justin of Raspberry Creek Fabrics, who found an innovative solution to this all-too-common problem. From their humble beginnings as a small Etsy shop to their thriving custom fabric printing business, we learn how technology has revolutionized the textile industry and made it easier for anyone to create unique, personalized fabric.
But what about the impact on the environment? We tackle the challenges of sustainability in the fashion industry, discussing waste and cost factors associated with large-scale fabric printing, while exploring the benefits of print-on-demand and custom printed fabric. Plus, we examine the growing trend towards choosing quality products that stand the test of time, as well as options available for those who may not be experts in graphic design.
Dive into the design process with us as we discuss the Raspberry Creek Fabrics Marketplace, offering opportunities for budding designers to upload and sell their creations. Boasting over 400 designers and 22,000 designs, we share valuable tips for design success, from drawing inspiration from personal style to striking the perfect balance between simplicity and flair. Don't miss this exciting episode filled with valuable insights and inspiration for your next sewing project!
For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode57
If you have enjoyed this episode then remember to click 'follow' in your podcast app to get updates on any new episodes.
Sharing is caring - reviews
If you enjoy this episode please be sure to share it and to leave a review to help others find us.
Get in touch
I always love to hear about you trying out what you pick up from these episodes so do let me know:

by email to hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
by DM on Instagram https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
on the Sew Much More Fun Facebook Group

Thank you so much for listening and for all your support. x

Support the show

056: Scrap-busting projects for the modern maker with Jen Rich Jun 03, 2023

Show notes

Do you hate wasting fabric? Do you find yourself looking for projects that will use up your scraps and create something useful and beautiful? Projects that don't require a lot of preparation or headspace, but are still fun to make?
I really hate wasting fabric but it can be quite difficult to find sewing projects that I will actually make use of and don't require my scraps to be too co-ordinated. I'm not a quilter and so am often on the look out for practical ideas that will help me minimise the off cuts that I have to throw away.
As I get older I am also becoming more conscious of my impact on our beautiful planet. I am more aware of my use of 'single use' items and whenever I spot ideas on how I can minimise those I am always excited.
So I was delighted when I heard about Jen Rich's new book - Stitch, Sewing projects for the modern maker and was keen to chat with her to find out more.
For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode56
If you have enjoyed this episode then remember to click 'follow' in your podcast app to get updates on any new episodes.
Sharing is caring - reviews
If you enjoy this episode please be sure to share it and to leave a review to help others find us.
Get in touch
I always love to hear about you trying out what you pick up from these episodes so do let me know:

by email to hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
by DM on Instagram https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
on the Sew Much More Fun Facebook Group

Thank you so much for listening and for all your support. x

Support the show

055: Taking time out Jun 03, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever wanted to take time out from a dressmaking project or sewing in general but felt like you can’t or felt too guilty to do so? Well that happened to me too recently with quite significant consequences so in today’s episode I wanted to share the value of taking time out and how to come back more energised after your break.
A quick thank you to Justin & Diana at Raspberry Creek fabrics - https://raspberrycreekfabrics.com - for their patience while I was taking time out.
In this episode you'll hear:

[00:02:18] Reasons you may need to take a time out
[00:04:07] Challenges to taking a break
[00:08:18] My recent time out
[00:09:59] 6 Benefits of taking time out
[00:12:14] Tips on taking time out
[00:15:30] Other useful resources

For full show notes and links visit: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode55
If you have enjoyed this episode then remember to click 'follow' in your podcast app to get updates on any new episodes.
Sharing is caring - reviews
If you enjoy this episode please be sure to share it and to leave a review to help others find us.
Get in touch
I always love to hear about you trying out what you pick up from these episodes so do let me know:

by email to hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
by DM on Instagram https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
on the Sew Much More Fun Facebook Group

Thank you so much for listening and for all your support. x

Support the show

054: Have you ever made a coat? Nov 12, 2022

Show notes

If I ask you do you fancy making your own coat, what thoughts go through your head? I remember the first time someone suggested that to me and it was way out of my comfort zone.
So what about you? Are you thinking - it's easy Jacqui I've already done it - if so, then kudos to you. Or are you thinking - I'd love to do that but it seems way too difficult? Whether you have already made a coat or if it's one of those projects you keep putting off until you are better at sewing then I'm hoping that today's episode is going to dispell any fears and motivate you to give it a try.
Like with all garments there are different types of coats and some are definitely more complicated or involved than others. So today I want to talk about a pattern for an unlined coat that I actually made a couple of years ago but that I think can be a great starting point for anyone wanting to have a go without it being overly difficult.
The last coat I bought was one that I happened to stumble on when not really looking for a coat in TKMax. I'm not a big shopper and I find clothes shopping a real challenge.
So that's why I ended up biting the bullet and making my own.
There's lots of great benefits to making your own coats and there is a growing range of great coat patterns out there to choose from.
So the pattern I want to talk to you about today is a Butterick pattern from their Lisette range. It's the B6244 and the name on the pattern is draped collar coat and dress.
In this episode I share my experience making this coat, some tips if you want to get started and some things I'll change from the lessons I learnt from this make.
For the full details, links and resources visit this page: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode54
If you enjoy this episode please add a rating and/or review as it helps others to find us and be sure to share with any friends that love to sew.

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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053: BONUS Making alterations for your body shape with Elise Chase-Sinclair Nov 05, 2022

Show notes

As promised for season 2 we have a number of BONUS episodes with expert guests.
Do you ever find that when you try to buy clothes that they often fit one part of your body but not others? For example if buying trousers or jeans, you can get them to fit your hips but they are too tight or loose on the waist and too tight or loose on the thighs.
Or if you are trying to buy dresses, if you get the size to fit your bust it's too big on the shoulders or drowns your bottom half, but if you try the size on to fit your waist and hips, it's too tight across the bust?
You may have had the same experiences when making your own clothes and using the standard pattern sizing. And if you have tried to use the same size that you would buy from the shop, you may have found that it makes up to be a completely different size to what you were expecting.
Advice from the expert Elise Chase-Sinclair
I recently spoke to fitting and alterations expert Elise Chase-Sinclair about these problems. You can also listen to our chat in this bonus podcast episode.
Elise has made and altered clothes for actors, dancers, and opera singers and just regular people. She also worked as a garment technician where she's analyzed how garments fit on different bodies.
Through her work experience she's become an expert at what alteration and pattern drafting techniques get the best fit for different bodies.
Her mission is to help people feel good in their clothes by teaching them how to make their clothes fit their bodies, and not the other way around. Something that I'm definitely very passionate about as well.
In this episode Elise gives her top tips on making alterations for your unique body shape.
Whether you have bought or made your clothes, if you they don't fit your unique proportions then they can feel uncomfortable and unflattering. When we are self-conscious about what we are wearing that can impact how we feel and how we interact with others.
You can get more details and all the links from the episode here: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode53
If you enjoy this episode please add a rating and/or review as it helps others to find us and be sure to share with any friends that love to sew.

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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052: 10 Top Tips for Sewing with Thicker Fabrics Oct 29, 2022

Show notes

Hello my lovelies and thanks for joining me for this week's episode. As the weather turns a bit colder I thought it might be good to talk about sewing with thicker fabrics so today I have 10 tips for you plus a couple of bonus tips on working with these sometimes trickier fabrics. First I'd like to just cover a couple of things I wanted to remember to share with you.
Episode webpage: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode52

It is approaching winter here in the UK and whilst it has been quite a mild autumn the colder nights are just around the corner.

We are also experiencing unprecedented fuel costs and so warm clothes and layers will definitely be a feature of my winter wardrobe.

But making warm clothes can often involve sewing thicker fabrics and I know that many people are put off by the thought of having to wrestle layers of thicker fabrics through their sewing machine. And if you have tried it in the past and had a bad experience it can put you off trying it again.

So today I wanted to talk through 10 top tips that you can use to have confidence making everything from warm jumpers to snuggly coats. I have also included a couple of bonus tips that came to me as I was prepping for this chat.

I don't want you to be left shivering as the cold weather sets in and I also don't want you to to have to say no to a fabric or pattern because you are worried about sewing thicker fabrics.

So these tips are simple ways to have fun making toasty treats to wear in winter and get a finish that you can be proud of.

I hope you find them useful and you can download a pdf copy from the episode web page. https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode52

If you haven't tried sewing with thicker fabrics I hope this inspires you to give it a go - if you have and have any experiences you want to share then please let me know. I always love to hear your thoughts and what you are working on or planning so do get in touch.

If you enjoy this episode please add a rating and/or review as it helps others to find us and be sure to share with any friends that love to sew.

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode52

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051: Making a Duster Jacket aka long cardigan Oct 15, 2022

Show notes

If you have struggled to find the perfect garment to help you transition from the warm weather to the cooler temperatures then look no further.
The trusty Duster Jacket also known as a long cardigan is the perfect make and the pattern I'm reviewing in this episode is a great for beginner dressmakers and experienced sewists alike.
The Simplicity 8557 pattern includes 5 garments and is definitely in the easy to sew category.
In this episode I give you some tips on sewing stretch fabrics if this is your first time making a stretch garment. I also talk through the versions I have made, my mistakes and tips to help you have a go.
For more details about the links and items mentioned check out the episode web page: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/episode51

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