The Sewing Social

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Kit Giroux shares their journey from passionate sewing enthusiast to semi-finalist on The Great British Sewing Bee, offering an honest look at what it takes to grow your skills and step into the spotlight. 
They talk us through their creative process from initial ideas to finished garments and how sewing has become a powerful form of self-expression.
In this episode, Kit also dives into their thoughts on fast fashion and the importance of making more conscious, sustainable choices when it comes to what we wear. 
They reflect on representation in the sewing world, the impact of being seen, and how clothing can shape identity and confidence.
Looking ahead, Kit shares exciting plans for the future, including exploring pattern design and taking on the challenge of creating a wedding dress. 
Along the way, there’s plenty of insight into pattern drafting, developing your own style, and embracing what makes your sewing truly personal.
Whether you’re passionate about sustainable fashion, curious about the realities of the Sewing Bee, or looking for inspiration in your own creative journey, this episode is packed with thoughtful conversation and fresh perspective.

Key Takeaways: 
Kit has been sewing since childhood, but had a break and picked it up again as an adult.
They applied for The Sewing Bee after watching the show with a friend.
They found that the Transformation Challenge on the show brought out the most creativity and they felt they learnt a lot from this.
Kit either makes their clothes or shops second hand. They are quite passionate about repairing and preventing clothing from going to landfill. 
Kit is designing a set of patterns which they hope to have available later this year.

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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: @kit_giroux_orginals
Tiktok: @kit_giroux_originals

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Sew and Stow - https://sewandstow.co.uk
     Discount code for £10 off your board - Sewingsocialpod

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
00:22 Journey into Sewing
02:36 The Sewing Bee Experience
06:43 Thoughts on Fast Fashion
11:41 Repairing and Upcycling Clothing
14:22 Navigating Challenges and Finding Joy
15:56 The Importance of Community and Connection
17:00 Creating Patterns and Personal Style
21:51 The Sewing Industry and Personal Expression
27:37 Clothing as a Reflection of Identity
29:18 Future Projects and Creative Endeavors
30:21 Rapid Fire: This or That?
34:13 Thready set go - 1st month free

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This week on the show, I'm speaking to Liz from the small business Flying Bobbins. 
Liz shares her inspiring journey from working in the fashion industry to building Flying Bobbins into a thriving sewing business. 
In this episode, she opens up about the realities of transitioning from corporate fashion to running a creative small business, and what it really takes to turn a passion for sewing into a sustainable brand.
She explores the importance of community in the sewing world, how connection and support can fuel creativity, and the role Flying Bobbins plays in bringing makers together. 
Liz also shares honest insights into balancing creativity with the demands of everyday life, offering relatable advice for anyone juggling a business, hobbies, and personal commitments.
Whether you’re a sewing enthusiast, a creative entrepreneur, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation is packed with practical tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and motivation to help you nurture your own creative journey.

Key Takeaways: 
Liz studied fashion design and worked in the fashion industry for many years before starting a family.
When her children were born, Liz felt that she needed a job that gave her more work/life balance as she wanted to be there for her children.
Flying Bobbins was created during the pandemic.
Liz offers a sew along club as well as in person teaching and a range of sewing kits.

Follow me: 
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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:
[email protected]

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest details: 
Instagram: @flyingbobbins
Website: www.flyingbobbins.com
Youtube: Flying Bobbins Tutorials
Facebook: Flying Bobbins VIP Group

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Liz and Flying Bobbins
01:06 The Journey of Learning to Sew
02:24 Education and Early Career in Fashion
04:57 Transitioning to Teaching and Home Dressmaking
07:00 Launching Flying Bobbins During the Pandemic
10:23 The Impact of Sewing on Mental Health
12:46 Reflections on the Fashion Industry and Fast Fashion
16:37 The Philosophy Behind Flying Bobbins
18:42 The Rewards of Teaching Sewing
21:42 The Supportive Sewing Community
22:57 The Power of Community in Creativity
25:23 The Sew Along Club: A New Approach to Learning
31:42 Balancing Business and Family Life
37:41 Future Aspirations and Personal Growth
42:29 Outro - tip on Ko-fi

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*Trigger warning - Please note that this episode discusses baby loss, listen at your own discretion and please skip ahead if you need to.
In this episode, Jenny Fazackerley of "Jenny Stitches" shares her journey from accountant to successful fabric shop owner and sewing studio founder in Cumbria. 
She talks about starting a sewing business, navigating the challenges of creative entrepreneurship, and building a thriving sewing community. 
Tune in for practical tips, small business insights, and plenty of sewing inspiration.

Key Takeaways:
Jenny grew up around sewing, so has been creative from a young age. 
She practiced as an accountant and then took a career break following the tragic loss of her baby daughter. 
During this time, Jenny decided to open a fabric shop following the closure of her local fabric shop. 
Jenny Stitches was born and has evolved from a market stall to a bricks and mortar store. 
Jenny discusses the highs and lows of small business life. 

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:
[email protected]

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for first month free - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details: 
Instagram: @jennystitchesfabrics
Facebook: Jenny Stitches Fabrics
Website: www.jennystitches.co.uk
Tiktok: @jennystitchesfabrics

Chapters

00:00 Trigger Warning and Introduction to Jenny Stitches
00:37 Jenny's Sewing Journey
03:44 Career Transition from Accounting to Sewing (Skip this part if you need to!)
07:26 The Challenges of Running a Business
11:05 The Importance of Community in Sewing
12:37 Overcoming Business Challenges
15:51 A Week in the Life of Jenny Stitches
19:05 Balancing Creativity and Business
20:51 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
23:25 Celebrating Success and Future Plans
26:15 The Creative Process Behind New Designs
28:35 Quickfire Questions and Personal Preferences
30:38 Outro - tip on Ko-fi

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In this episode, Erica shares her inspiring journey from police officer to skilled traditional upholsterer, transforming her career through creativity and craftsmanship. 
She highlights her commitment to sustainable upholstery, using eco-friendly materials and preserving time-honoured techniques. 
She also introduces the innovative Sew & Stow cutting board, designed to make fabric cutting easier, more efficient, and more precise for makers of all levels.
Discover how Erica is building a purpose-driven craft business, championing sustainable sewing practices, and empowering others through hands-on upholstery courses and creative education.

Key Takeaways: 
Erica's career transitioned from British Telecom to the Police force, and then onto upholstery
She emphasises the importance of eco-friendly and natural materials in upholstery
She developed the Sew & Stow fabric cutting board from a board she had made for herself 
Erica talks about how craft and upholstery can aid mental health and well-being
Erica explains her approach to teaching upholstery and empowering others

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
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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: 
Sew and Stow website:  https://sewandstow.co.uk
Instagram: @sewandstow.uk
Facebook: byericajane
Discount code for listeners (£10 off a cutting board): Sewingsocialpod 

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Resources:
Leanne Treadwell - Bristol Upholstery Collective - https://www.bristolupholsterycollective.co.uk
Renee Hodson - Master Upholsterer - https://www.reneehodson.co.uk

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties
00:10 Erica's Journey into Sewing and Upholstery
02:22 Transition from Police Officer to Upholsterer
05:13 The Impact of Personal Loss and Finding Purpose
08:04 Traditional Upholstery Techniques and Materials
10:56 The Importance of Natural Materials in Upholstery
13:37 Teaching Upholstery and Community Engagement
16:37 Upholstery as a Therapeutic Craft
19:33 Challenges and Standout Projects in Upholstery
25:28 The Art of Upholstery: Techniques and Insights
28:04 Sewing Journey: From Upholstery to Fashion
30:21 Innovating the Cutting Board: The Sew and Stow Story
49:52 Sew and Stow: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Future Plans
56:33 Outro - Kofi

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In this episode, Izzy shares her inspiring journey from a career in landscape architecture to launching her own sewing business, Izzo Sew Studio. 
She talks about how her passion for sewing grew into a platform that helps others build confidence in making and fitting their own clothes. 
Izzy discusses the power of sewing as a form of self-expression, a more sustainable approach to fashion, and a way to connect with a supportive creative community.
We also dive into her approach to garment fitting and pattern drafting, along with practical insights that can help sewists better understand their bodies and achieve clothes that truly fit. 
Izzy shares what inspired her to start hosting sewing retreats, workshops, and socials, and how these events bring people together to learn, share skills, and enjoy sewing in a welcoming environment. 
Whether you're just starting out or looking to develop your sewing skills further, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone interested in making their own wardrobe. 🧵✨

Key Takeaways:
Izzy began her sewing journey in Nepal in the foothills of the Himalayas 
She qualified as a Landscape Architect but now runs her own business as a Pattern Designer and Fitting Expert
Izzy runs Izzo Sew Studio with her husband Tim
They run several retreats across the country including The Lake District, The Peak District and Ascot.
Izzy feels that making your own clothes is a reflection of who you are and repeatedly wearing your handmade wardrobe makes it sustainable.

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]

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for 10% off your first month - SOCIALPOD10

Guest Details: 
Instagram - @izzosewstudio
Website - https://www.izzosewstudio.com
Facebook: Izzo Sew Studio
New Beginner Bespoke Dressmaking Course: https://www.izzosewstudio.com/learn-to-sew

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Izzy and Izzo Sew Studio
00:43 Izzy's Sewing Beginnings
02:37 Career Transition to Sewing
08:26 A Day in the Life of Izzy
10:33 Benefits of Learning to Sew
14:32 Sewing Retreats: A Creative Escape
18:03 Personalised Guidance and Fitting Techniques
22:31 Sewing Social Days: Community and Connection
22:48 Sewing and Sustainability: A Perfect Match
24:17 Exciting Upcoming Events and Workshops
28:56 Fun and Games: This or That?
31:49 Outro