Send us a textDesigner Aimee Sher joins Felicia Lo for an inspiring conversation about creativity, inclusivity, and the evolution of modern knitting. Aimee shares her journey from knitter to designer, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her thoughtful design process, her commitment to size-inclusive patterns, and how yarn choices shape her work.They dive into the influence of fashion trends, the role of accessibility in pattern writing, and the impact of community through test knitting and teaching. Aimee also reflects on how her Taiwanese heritage and climate awareness influence her craft and how she balances her love for knitting, weaving, and spinning with the demands of a growing business.Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation full of insight, inspiration, and a glimpse into what’s next from Aimee Sher.TakeawaysAimee's journey into fibre arts began after having a baby.Knitting provides a sense of purpose and identity for parents.Inclusivity in patterns is a priority for Aimee.Accessibility in pattern design is evolving.Aimee's designs focus on practical and wearable garments.The importance of considering different body shapes in sizing.Yarn choice significantly influences design decisions.Aimee avoids following other designers to maintain originality.The trend in knitting is shifting towards more fitted garments.Aimee's creative process is heavily influenced by the yarn itself. Aimee designs primarily for her customers and test knitters.The knitting process can be time-consuming, often taking 40-60 hours for a sweater.Trust from test knitters is crucial for successful designs.Cultural background influences Aimee's design choices and fabric selections.Aimee's grandmother was a professional crochet designer, linking her to her heritage.Designing with climate in mind is important for Aimee's work.Aimee enjoys exploring various textile arts beyond knitting, including weaving and spinning.Balancing craft and business is a challenge for Aimee, requiring careful time management.Aimee finds joy in the creative process and the learning that comes with it.Future projects include new patterns and expanding her shop offerings.
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S5 E4: Ergonomics for Comfortable Crafting with Physical Therapist Andrea Lui
Send us a textIn this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo welcomes Andrea Lui for a thoughtful conversation about crafting and health. Together, they explore the importance of ergonomics while we craft and share preventive measures to help ensure many years of comfortable, joyful making. Andrea also speaks to the powerful role crafting can play in supporting our mental health.Andrea shares her journey from casual crafter to physical therapist, now specializing in craft-related injuries, and emphasizes the importance of staying aware of how we move while we create. They touch on common concerns like carpal tunnel syndrome and offer practical tips to support a sustainable, daily crafting practice.Whether you knit, spin, or weave, this episode is a gentle reminder that caring for your body is just as essential as the work you bring into the world.TakeawaysCrafting can transform your relationship with your craft.Knitting became a retreat from the busy world.It's important to connect with the crafting community.Many crafters experience pain but don't seek help.Preventative measures are key to avoiding crafting injuries.Posture and ergonomics significantly impact crafting comfort.Choosing the right tools can enhance crafting experience.Carpal tunnel syndrome is common among crafters.Mental health benefits are significant in crafting.Awareness of body mechanics is crucial for long-term crafting.
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S5 E3: Weaving a Stronger Community with Radical Weavers (Mairi Breslin & Peter Dickie)
Send us a textIn this episode of the Sweet Georgia Show, Felicia explores the work of Radical Weavers, a community weaving studio in Stirling, Scotland. Founded by Mairi Breslin, the studio supports young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds through weaving workshops and inclusive teaching methods. Peter Dickie, Mairi’s son, runs the studio’s commercial offerings and community work, showcasing the transformative power of weaving.The Radical Weavers organization, which started as a small hobby, has grown into a community hub that offers therapeutic weaving workshops and support for individuals facing challenges. Through inclusive and inspiring programs, the organization empowers people to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The Radical Weavers’ commitment to diversity and inclusion has earned them recognition and support from the community.Takeaways:Radical Weavers focuses on building community through weaving.The studio supports young adults who are neurodivergent or LGBT.Weaving is used as a therapeutic tool for trauma recovery.Accessibility adaptations are made for individuals with disabilities.Tartan weaving is evolving with innovative designs and materials.The V&A Museum residency showcased the creativity of the studio.Personal stories highlight the transformative power of weaving.Future plans include opening a Tartan Centre in Scotland.The organization aims to be self-sufficient and community-driven.Inclusivity and support are at the core of Radical Weavers' mission.
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S5 E2: Ease Grief, Create Community, Inspire Generosity with Loose Ends (Masey Kaplan and Jen Simonic)
Send us a textLoose Ends is an everyone-is-welcome movement that aims to ease grief, create community, and inspire generosity by matching volunteer handwork finishers with textile projects people have left undone due to death or disability.In this conversation, Felicia Lo speaks with Masey Kaplan and Jen Simonic, co-founders of the Loose Ends project, which connects crafters to finish projects left behind by loved ones who have passed away. They discuss their backgrounds, the inception of Loose Ends, and how the project has grown to include thousands of volunteers across the globe. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of crafting, the importance of community support, and the future aspirations of the organization as they navigate challenges and seek to expand their reach.TakeawaysLoose Ends was born from a desire to help those grieving.The project connects crafters to unfinished projects left behind.Community support is vital for the growth of Loose Ends.The organization has grown to over 33,000 finishers in 74 countries.Crafting serves as a universal language of comfort and connection.The founders emphasize the importance of planning for unfinished projects.Loose Ends aims to expand beyond textiles into other crafts.Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the project.The organization is adapting to challenges in the crafting community.Crafting fosters genuine human connections and kindness.
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Season 5, Episode 1: Welcome Back to the SweetGeorgia Show
Send us a textThe SweetGeorgia Show is set to return with a fresh perspective, aiming to explore the deeper intentions behind crafting. This isn't just a podcast about textiles and handcrafts; it's a conversation about the innovation and identity that these crafts represent. We want to understand how the act of making things shapes our identities and how these identities transcend geographical boundaries.In this episode of The SweetGeorgia Show, Felicia Lo reflects on her journey as a maker and the evolution of her brand, SweetGeorgia. She discusses the importance of community in crafting, the challenges and joys of creating, and the renewed focus of the podcast on meaningful conversations about the act of making. With a commitment to fostering connection and creativity, Felicia invites listeners to join her on this new adventure in exploring the stories behind crafting.TakeawaysThe SweetGeorgia Show is celebrating its 100th episode.Felicia started the podcast to reconnect with her craft after a break.The podcast has evolved alongside SweetGeorgia's offerings.Creating videos for YouTube was pivotal for Felicia's teaching.SweetGeorgia now offers over 115 video-based courses.The podcast aims to explore the deeper meaning of crafting.Felicia emphasizes the importance of community in crafting.Listeners are encouraged to engage through comments and Discord.The podcast will be available in both video and audio formats.SweetGeorgia's mission is to spread joy through color and craft.
Join Felicia Lo, founder of SweetGeorgia Yarns, as she explores the sweet spot between craft, creativity, and colour together with some of the most inspiring knitters, spinners, designers, shop owners, and makers in this handmade community.
Netherlands