Sew Mindful Podcast

Latest Episodes:

040: How to reconnect with your style with Imogen Lamport May 15, 2021

Show notes

I can't believe we are at Episode 40 already! Thank you so much for listening and supporting the show. This week I am joined again by my very first guest on the podcast, the wonderful Imogen Lamport.
If you haven't listened to the previous episodes with Imogen and you at all interested in anything related to style then I highly recommend going back and picking those up (episodes 2, 8 and 14).
Imogen has dedicated her energy to learning about all things style and then helping other women to apply that to create wardrobes that they love.
I have been on a personal journey to learn about my own style preferences but feel like it is still a work in progress so in this episode Imogen gives her take on how to start to reconnect with your style if like me you feel a bit lost.
In this episode you will hear:
> Some of the reasons we can feel like we have lost our style
> How to change your perception of your style
> Tips on how to have fun with the clothes you already have
> Questions to help you identify what's changed for you and how to move forward
> Practical tips to discover your own sometimes hidden values
> How to reflect your values through your clothing
> Why the connection between values and satisfaction is so important
Useful links and resources:
> Episode 2: Use your face to pick your fabric
> Episode 8: Use Style Lines to flatter your figure
> Episode 14: Tips to turn frightful photos into sexy selfies
> Developing your Style Recipe - Tips and Tricks from the Professional
> 7 Steps to Style program
I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did and I'd love to know what your biggest takeaways or a-has are from listening so be sure to DM me on instagram or email me via the Sew Much More Fun website.
Connect with Imogen
Website: https://insideoutstyleblog.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/insideoutstyleblog
Facebook: https;//facebook.com/insideoutstyleblog
Connect with me (Jacqui)
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun
Facebook: https://facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun
Thank you so much for listening!

Support the show

039: Making your own knickers with Flo-Jo Fabrics May 08, 2021

Show notes

This week is all about underwear and I wanted to talk about making your own knickers. I put off making my own underwear for a long time because I thought it was really difficult. Then I saw some fabulous knicker-making kits advertised by Flo-Jo Fabrics. All the hardwork of choosing what fabrics and which elastics was done for me and I decided to take the plunge and give it a go.
I made my first two pairs of knickers - one from non-stretch cotton fabric with elastic around legs and waist and the other from jersey fabric with stretch lace around the legs and waist.
The kits included the patterns and instructions and it couldn't have been simpler. I was able to make them with my sewing machine and I loved them. So when I thought about talking about making knickers I figured who better to talk to than where it started for me and the fabulous Delia of Flo-Jo was so much fun to explore this topic with!
My thoughts about this episode were also triggered by a fabulous photo in the Flo-Jo Fabrics newsletter of Delia and Erika in Wonder Woman swimsuits raising money for a good cause. If you buy one of their knicker making kits then they are donating £1 to Womankind for each kit sold. So please do check those out as they are great fun to make and you get to support a fabulous cause too!
In this episode you will hear:
> Who Flo-Jo Fabrics are and what they do
> How the knicker making kits came to be
> The benefits of making your own knickers
> The different types of knickers available in the kits
> Different ways to adapt the pattern to create the perfect style for you
> Tips on taking the leap and getting started
Useful links and resources:
Knicker making kits: https://www.flo-jofabrics.co.uk/products/cat_1273412-Kits.html
Womankind Charity: https://www.womankindbristol.org.uk/
Book - Knickers !: 6 Sewing Patterns for Handmade Lingerie including French knickers, cotton briefs and saucy Brazilians
I loved doing this episode and Delia's energy and enthusiasm so I hope that you love it too.
Reviews really help others find us!
Haven’t left a review yet? All you have to do is go to the Sew Mindful podcast on itunes, click 'Listen on Apple Podcasts', open in itunes and then click 'Ratings and Reviews'. And thanks for your support of this show!
Connect with Delia & Flo-Jo Fabrics:
Website | www.flo-jofabrics.co.uk
Facebook | www.facebook.com/Flo-Jo-Boutique-181291368551545/
Instagram | instagram.com/@flojofabrics
Connect with me:
Website | www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk
Facebook | facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun
Instagram | instagram.com/sewmuchmorefun

Support the show

038: How to choose interfacings & interlinings May 01, 2021

Show notes

Thank you so much for tuning in to this week's episode. We have an exciting giveaway for you alongside this episode.
This week I am joined by the wonderful Janet Kolle of Vlieseline to talk all things interfacing. If like me you have been baffled by which interfacing or interlining to choose for your dressmaking project then Janet is here to help.
In this episode you will hear:
> Janet's background with Freudenburg and Vlieseline
> What's the difference between interfacing and interlining
> Where you can use interfacings/interlinings
> Why bi-elastic interlining is Janet's favourite
> Benefits of using interlinings and interfacings
> Why it is important to test with your fabric
> The best interfacings and interlinings to get started with
And generously Janet has given us a fabulous Vlieseline Embroidery Kit with 5 of their fabulous products ideal for machine and hand embroidery to give away to a lucky listener. For a chance to win head over to the Sew Much More Fun website and fill in your details: https://www.sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/post/vlieseline-embroidery-set-giveaway
We will be drawing a winner at random on the 28th May 2021 at midday (BST) so be sure to get your entry in.
Useful Links and Resources
It was a delight to talk to Janet and here are some links and resources from our conversation:
> Vlieseline website: https://www.vlieseline.com/
> Vlieseline Embroidery Kit: https://www.vlieseline.com/Products/Creative-Range/Stick-Set
> Vlieseline Woven Interlinings: https://www.vlieseline.com/Products/Woven-Interlinings
> Vlieseline Fusible Interlinings: https://www.vlieseline.com/Products/Fusible-Interlinings
> Janet's favourite - G770
Connect with Janet Kolle & Vlieseline:
Website: https://www.vlieseline.com/
Instagram: @vlieseline_uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VlieselineFreudenbergUK
Connect with me (Jacqui):
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

037: Connecting with your Creativity with Clara Nartey Apr 24, 2021

Show notes

Thank you so much for tuning in to this week's episode. For many years after I learned how to sew and make clothes I religiously followed patterns. Whilst I was making them my own by choosing my fabrics I wouldn't have thought of myself as creative.
When I started learning about pattern drafting and later, fashion design I realised that we are all creative but we just don't always know how to recognise and nurture our creativity. I wanted to find a guest that could explain how we can connect with our creativity and that led me to the talented Clara Nartey.
Clara is an artist, an entrepreneur and a coach. She creates the most magnificent and colourful textile artworks and through her teaching and coaching shares her own process with others to help them share their creativity with the world.
In this episode you will hear:
> Clara's background and how she reached where she is today
> How she raised the money for her first sewing machine
> Her approach to learning how to quilt
> How she became such a successful textile artist
> Her tips on developing your own creativity
> Where many people go wrong in their creative process and how to avoid it
> The two types of creative mindset and how to use them to your advantage
> The next steps you can take to boost your own creativity
It was a delight to talk to Clara and I learned so much from our chat plus we got to laugh a lot too! I really hope you enjoy this episode and if you want more colour in your life be sure to follow Clara on Instagram.
Useful links and resources:
Daily Journalling Challenge: https://academy.claranartey.com/p/daily-journaling-challenge
Clarity to Create: https://theclaritytocreate.com/
Time Mastery for Creatives: https://claranartey.com/time-mastery
If you have found any tips or techniques that help you to boost your own creativity and want to share then be sure to DM me on instagram or email me via the sewmuchmorefun.co.uk website!
Connect with Clara:
Website: https://claranartey.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claranartey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaraNarteyArt/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdaMSI2j3N1kG8k1phUlN6Q
Connect with me (Jacqui)
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

036: Which is the right sewing machine needle? Apr 17, 2021

Show notes

Thank you so much for joining me again this week! In this episode I am answering a great question raised by one of our listeners - Stephanie - who wanted to know how to pick the right sewing machine needle for her sewing projects.
So in this episode you will hear:
> Why there are different types of needles
> What the anatomy of a machine needle is
> What factors going into choosing which needle to use
> How are needles sized
> What types of needle are available and when are they used
> When you should change your sewing machine needle
> What brands of needles are available

We cover a lot in this episode so if you'd like a handy PDF guide of the key aspects covered to keep as a handy reference then head over to the Sew Much More Fun website and sign up for the newsletter and within the next few days we will email you a copy!
I love answering your questions so be sure to let me know what you would like to hear or learn more about.
Connect with me:
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

035: Fabric Focus - Denim, the Switzerland of Fabrics with Harriet Kjellman Apr 10, 2021

Show notes

Welcome to this week's Sew Mindful podcast episode with one of my favourite titles to date. I can't take credit for it as it was the work of my wonderful guest this week - Harriet Kjellman.
Harriet is a woman of many talents including lecturing in fashion at Wolverhampton University, running her own fashion label and consulting and teaching in fashion and fashion processes and product development.
Harriet has a long history with denim and uses it extensively in her designs which is why when I think of this wonderful fabric, I think of her. She referred to denim as 'the Switzerland of fabrics' because it is so neutral in that it transcends barriers and boundaries across so many walks of life, not taking sides, accessible to one and all.
In this episode you will hear:
> Who Harriet is and her history and connection to denim
> Her take on the symbolism of denim
> Why denim is so versatile
> What makes denim unique
> Some of the challenges in working with denim and tips to overcome them
> Seam and stitching techniques to use with denim and how to spot high-end garments
> Tricks for topstitching on denim
> The ethos and features of Harriet's denim design collection
> What to look for when buying denim
I thoroughly enjoyed Harriet's take on denim and the reasons for using and wearing it and I hope that you get some tips, ideas and inspiration from this episode.
Connect with Harriet:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harriet_kjellman/
Website: https://www.harrietkjellman.com/62-design-company
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/62designcompany/ & https://www.facebook.com/harrietkjellmanofficial
Connect with me (Jacqui)
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

034: What Wearing Red Can Do For You! Mar 27, 2021

Show notes

Hello, welcome and thank you for joining me! I wanted to just do a quick intro to this episode to explain a bit about what to expect and how this week's topic relates to dressmaking (as it may not be apparent when you first start listening!)

One of the considerations when I am making garments is the fabric and each fabric has colours and properties associated with it. We can choose colours based purely on aesthetics for example which colours work well together but there are schools of thought around colours being so much more.

This interview explores one of those schools of thought around energy and chakras and their relationship to colour and the reason I wanted to share it with you is that I have found it so interesting and stimulating to incorporate different perspectives into my life and I wanted to give you the chance to do the same.
It follows on from episode 29 where my fabulous guest Sue Ricks and I talked about the Pantone Colour of the Year and some of the meanings and associations of yellow.

In this episode initially we recap about what chakras are and in particular the base chakra, how that relates to our bodies and emotions and how the colour red relates to it.

Then we go on to talk about how you can use the colour red to boost any those physical and emotional areas where you may feel you need a boost.

It could be that after hearing it you decide it’s not for you. You could also decide that you will add it into your tools and considerations to help you create your fabulous garments. The choice is totally yours but I hope you find it interesting.
If you have enjoyed this episode then take a pic of you listening in your fav red outfit or with your fav red accessory, stick it on instagram and tag Sue and I, @sue_ricks_academy and @sewmuchmorefun!

Connect with Sue
Website: https://suericks.com
Sue Ricks Academy: https://suericksacademy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suericksacademy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue_ricks_academy/
Email: office@suericks.com
Connect with me (Jacqui)
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

033: Drafting your own sewing patterns Mar 20, 2021

Show notes

Hello and welcome to this episode of the Sew Mindful podcast.
Have you ever struggled to find just the right pattern for the garment or style you want to make? Have you ever thought I wish I could make my own patterns - surely it can't be that difficult?
Well in this episode I explore my thoughts and experiences with pattern drafting. When I first learned pattern drafting it deepened my love of dressmaking but also brought with it a fair amount of subsquent frustrations.
So I want to share with you my warts and all assessment of the pros and cons of pattern drafting, how and when I have used it and some insights as to what it involves.
In this episode you will hear:
> What is pattern drafting?
> What tools do you need to get started?
> What is the process involved with pattern drafting including some aspects you may not have considered
> The pros and cons of making your own patterns
> How to use pattern drafting and commercial patterns together
> Some ways to get started and find out more
Useful Links and Resources:
> Gretchen Hirsch: Gertie Sews Vintage Casual
> Winifred Aldrich: Metric Pattern Cutting for Women's Wear
> Chinelo Bally: Freehand Fashion
> Tomoko Nakamichi: Pattern Magic, Pattern Magic 2, Pattern Magic 3
> Suzzy Furrer: Apparel Arts
> Alexandra: In-house Patterns
> @Sewmadeforme: bespoke slopers
> William Gee: pattern drafting paper and supplies
> Craftsy: craftsy.com
If you enjoy this episode I would love to hear about it and if you have any takeaways or a-has. Take a pic of you listening on your device or with your favourite pattern or sewing book, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me @sewmuchmorefun.
Connect with me (Jacqui):
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook:

Support the show

032: Inspiring Women - Thank you! Mar 13, 2021

Show notes

In the week of International Women's Day and Mother's Day in the UK, it seemed only fitting to dedicate this episode to the amazing women that have influenced and inspired my sewing and dressmaking.
So in this episode you will hear:
> about the sewing teachers that have helped me build my sewing skills and confidence
> who from the Great British Sewing Bee made my list of top influential women
> which movie has my favourite costumes
> some personal thank you's - did you get a mention?
Useful links and resources:
> Craftsy: https://www.craftsy.com/
> Suzy Furrer, Apparel Arts Foundation: https://www.apparelartsproductions.com/
> The Sewing Book, Alison Smith
> Alison Smith's School of Sewing: https://www.schoolofsewing.co.uk/
> Love Sewing Magazine
> The Great British Sewing Bee
> Tilly & the Buttons: https://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/
> Janet Pray, Islander Sewing System: https://stores.islandersewing.com/
> Claire-Louise Hardie, The Thrifty Stitcher: https://thethriftystitcher.co.uk/
> Abstract, The Art of Design: https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80057883
> Black Panther trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjDjIWPwcPU
> Krystal Proffitt: https://krystalproffitt.com/
> Hidden Figures trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wfrDhgUMGI
> A Call to Spy trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbZgLKjrdnA
> On the Basis of Sex trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgvBT-IO4lY

Thank you so much to all of my fabulous past guests and to all you wonderful listeners. I hope that this inspires you to reflect on those in your life that have inspired you and that you are grateful for.
If you enjoy this episode I would love to hear about it and know who your inspiration comes from, your fav movies or people in your life that you are grateful for. Take a pic of you listening on your device or in your fav outfit, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me @sewmuchmorefun.
Connect with me (Jacqui):
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

031: Fabric Shops and Making Memories Mar 06, 2021

Show notes

Full disclosure - my cheeks are still aching from all the laughing we did recording this episode! Thank you so much for joining me for episode 31 where I am joined once again by Claire Hutchinson for what is becoming known as the Claire Hutchinson Mini Series!
If you have listened to any of our previous chats you will know that Claire loves fabric and so in this get together she shares her favourite fabric shops and to my delight many of them were new to me and I can't wait to arrange a bus trip with Claire's mum (who sounds like a blast!) just as soon as we can go back out to shop!
In this episode you will hear:
> lots of girly laughter!
> some of Claire's fav fabric shops and why she loves them
> how to plan a fabric shopping trip the Claire Hutchinson way
> some memories of Claire's favourite shopping trips
Useful Links and Resources:
> The Fent Shop, Macclesfield
> Shufflebottoms, Macclesfield
> Fabworks, Dewsbury
> Sew Wardrobe, Ashby
> The Shuttle, Shipley
> Misan West, Goldhawk Road, London
> Dragonfly Fabrics
> Fabric Godmother
> Minerva Crafts
> Guthrie and Ghani, Birmingham
> Birmingham Rag Market
> Sewing for Pleasure, Birmingham NEC
> Linton Tweeds, Carlisle
> Beckford Silk, Tewksbury
> Claire's Lockdown Hoodie
I hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we did recording it and if you have any favourite local fabric shops then please do email me hello@sewmuchmorefun.co.uk and let me know.
Connect with Claire:
Instagram: @sew_made_it
Connect with me (Jacqui):
Website: https://sewmuchmorefun.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co.uk/sewmuchmorefun/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sewmuchmorefun/

Support the show

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected