How Sewing Changed My Life: Creativity, Wellbeing and Building a Handmade Wardrobe with Dr Claire Ashley

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Claire Ashley shares how she discovered sewing during a challenging period in her life and how it grew from a practical skill into a powerful source of creativity, confidence, and wellbeing. From teaching herself to sew, to building a colourful handmade wardrobe, Claire reflects on the lessons, challenges, and joys of her sewing journey.We explore the mental health benefits of sewing, including how creative hobbies can boost self-efficacy, reduce stress, and provide a sense of accomplishment.Claire also shares her passion for sustainable fashion, upcycling clothes, and embracing a more mindful approach to making.Whether you're new to sewing, looking to rekindle your sew-jo, or interested in the connection between creativity and wellbeing, this inspiring conversation is packed with practical tips, encouragement, and fresh ideas for your next sewing project.Claire Discusses: Her self-taught sewing journey during the pandemicThe role of sewing in mental health and wellbeingUpcycling charity shop finds into new garmentsChallenges and rewards of sewing from scratch and upcyclingInspiration from nature and social media for sewing projectsFollow 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:[email protected]*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocialGuest Details: Instagram: @thesorbelloeditTiktok: @thesorbelloeditBook: The Burnout Doctor https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399412809Affiliate 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 - SEWINGSOCIALPODChapters:00:00 Introduction to Claire Ashley and her sewing journey06:25 Claire’s inspiration for her own sewing 07:41 Upcycling charity shop garments12:16 What sewing brings in one sentence12:36 Exciting plans14:03 Where you can find Claire14:35 Join my Substack