Love to Sew

We share our listeners’ stories and suggestions for sewing with others in real life! We chat about guilds, clubs, classes, Zoom sewcials, friend meet-ups, and even sewing birthday parties. And we share our own stories, too. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  From […]

We made garments from our fabric scraps and we reveal them to each other ON THE PODCAST! We chat about how we decided which scraps to put together, our patchwork techniques, and how we feel about our scrap stashes now. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show […]

We interview Maddie Ballard, author of Patchwork: A Sewist’s Diary! We chat with her about learning to sew during the pandemic, connecting to her roots through her projects, and transforming painful moments into beautiful work. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  Find Maddie […]

In this episode, we chat with Nyala Rowe from Crochet Junction! She gives us an intro to crochet, including the best beginner projects, yarn, and resources. Plus: finding crafty community, the tools you need to get started with crochet, and more! The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the […]

We each sewed a bag in secret, and in this episode, we reveal them to each other for the first time! We chat about the patterns and fabrics we chose, what techniques helped us out during the sewing process, and how we plan to style our new bags. The transcript for this episode is on […]

Today’s guest is Leila Kelleher: professor of fashion design, co-owner of pattern company Muna and Broad, ready-to-wear designer for A Space in Between, and co-author of the new book, Plus-Size Patternmaking for Womenswear! We talk with Leila about this groundbreaking book, her practical, neutral approach to plus size design and pattern drafting, and how to […]

This is our 300th episode celebration! We chat about 9 years making Love to Sew, including the guest we were the most nervous to interview, our 2026 TNT patterns, and the advice we would give the 2017 versions of ourselves. Plus: fun games, Love to Sew stats, and more! The transcript for this episode is […]

This episode is all about sewing rainwear! We talk about some of the most common waterproof fabrics and define terms like “hydrostatic head rating” and “DWR.” We also share some great indie patterns for raincoats, jackets, and hats. And we give tons of tips for sewing with waterproof fabrics, sealing seams, re-waterproofing, and more! The […]

Our guest for this episode is Sydney Graham! She designs comfy, stylish patterns and makes amazing sewing content on social media. We chat with her about her fascinating career journey, creating work/life balance, and her dreamy DIY sewing spaces. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. […]

We’re back for the spring season with an episode all about sewing hats! We share special materials and techniques you’ll only see in the world of hatmaking, talk about hat styles from easy to advanced, and reveal the hats WE made! The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the […]

In this episode, we took the plunge and sewed our favourite fabrics into showstopper garments! We reveal them to each other for the first time and share the stories of where we got our fabrics, what the fitting and sewing process was like, and where we plan to wear our new clothes. Plus, we answer […]

In this episode, we interview Inuk sewist Laura Pia Churchill! She tells us about life in Nunavut, Inuit sewing traditions, sewing through grief, being an auntie, and lots more. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  Find Laura Pia Online: Instagram:  @pia.churchill @ajapiadesigns TikTok: […]

In this episode, we share a bunch of lesser-known sewing notions! Have you heard of a curve runner? How about drawcord elastic? Monofilament thread? Zipper lubricant? We talk about all of these and lots more! Plus, we answer a listener question about taking in trousers. The transcript for this episode is coming soon. Show Notes:  […]

This episode is all about how to sew when you’re a parent or caregiver! How to find the time, how to keep kids away from sharp sewing tools, how to involve kids in your sewing practice, and more. Our listeners called and wrote in with some really cool stories, tips, and strategies! The transcript for […]

In this episode, we interview Pauline Bruce aka @sewuthinkucan! She’s a pattern hacking genius, Sew the Look specialist, and beloved member of the sewing community. She chats with us about her continent-crossing sewing journey, tells us how to get sewing friendships off the internet and into real life, and reveals her secrets for finding patterns […]

We each chose a rising trend for Fall/Winter 2025 and sewed garments inspired by it! In this episode, we reveal them to each other for the first time. We also talk about our pattern and fabric choices, the tips that helped us through the sewing process, and where we plan to wear our trendy outfits. […]

This episode is an introduction to projector sewing! Projector sewists skip the paper and project patterns directly onto fabric. We talk about what you need for a successful setup and how to use it; the pros and cons of projector sewing vs. printing out PDF patterns; and whether we’re planning to start using projectors (we […]

We interview Cornelius Quiring, the beloved internet sewing teacher and content creator! We chat with him about his unique sewing journey, his minimalist design perspective, how he teaches difficult drafting concepts, and his favourite things to sew. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  […]

We each sewed a vest and, in this episode, we reveal them to each other for the first time! We talk about the patterns and fabrics we chose, the ups and downs of the sewing process, and how we’re going to style our new vests. Plus, an extra special surprise! The transcript for this episode […]

We’re back for the fall 2025 season with a brand-new call-in episode! We answer sewing questions from our listeners: how to choose your size based on your fabric’s stretch percentage, what patterns to pick for a work capsule wardrobe, how to sew a curved French seam, and lots more! We also catch up about our […]

We asked our listeners: “If you could only sew one thing, what would it be?” In this episode, we share their answers (and ours)! Listen in and get inspired – there are so many different kinds of answers! The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show […]

We each sewed an eyelet garment, and now we’re going to tell each other about it for the first time! We discuss our fabric choices, pattern choices, sewing experiences, and lots more. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  From the Listener Feedback Section: […]

In this episode, we chat about a really interesting email we got from a listener who doesn’t enjoy the sewing process. We talk about sewing for practical reasons versus sewing for the process, how to make the sewing process more enjoyable, and how to decide whether sewing is worth it. Plus, we have some fun […]

This episode is all about a lesser-known fiber: hemp! It’s super environmentally friendly, breathable, antibacterial, and has great body and texture. We talk a bit about hemp’s long history, how it goes from plant to fabric, and what to sew with it. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of […]

This episode is like a mini sewing challenge! We each sewed a skort and we discuss it for the first time on the pod. We chat about the patterns and fabrics we chose for our skorts, our experiences sewing them up, and how we wear them! The transcript for this episode is on this page […]

We interview Christine Millar, aka Sewstine! She talks to us about her stunning historical costumes, from drafting the patterns to designing and machine embroidering the sumptuous fabrics. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  Find Christine Online: Website: Sewstine Instagram: @sewstine YouTube: Sewstine Etsy: […]

Ease is the extra length and width that pattern designers add so that you can move in your clothes. In this episode, we talk about how ease works and how to figure out the amount of ease that YOU like. It’s a game-changer for making clothes that fit! We also answer a listener question about […]

In this episode, we’re reacting to rising fashion trends for spring 2025! Whether we love ‘em or hate ‘em, we’re gonna tell you how you can incorporate them into your me-mades. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes: Previous Episodes Mentioned: Episode 268: Reacting […]

We interview Brandon Hayden, a pattern designer, sewing teacher, and content creator who makes menswear with bold fabrics and cool details. He wants to empower sewists to build their skills and express themselves! The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  Where to find Brandon […]

  We’re back with the first episode of the spring 2025 season! We chat about our sewing machines – the ones we learned on, the ones we have today, and the ones we want in the future. Plus: we catch up about what we did on our winter break, name our fave sewing machine features […]

Quick wins are projects that refresh you and revive your sewjo. If you’re feeling uninspired and unmotivated to sew, have a listen! We go over what makes a project “quick”  and what makes it a “win” so you can choose a project that will work for you. Plus, we share a bunch of specific ideas […]

We interview Rashida Coleman-Hale, fabric designer for Ruby Star Society! We talk to her about her journey to becoming a surface designer, her process for designing fabric collections, and her upcoming book. The transcript for this episode are on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  Find Rashida Online: Website Instagram: […]

We chat about sewing for others – what to make, what to avoid, and how to make sure that your experience is fun and fulfilling! We talk about the pros and cons of sewing for others, whether as a gift or as a favour. We share tips about fitting and choosing fabric. And we share […]

This episode is all about sewing garments, bags, and accessories for trips! We talk about the best fabrics, how to layer, and how to design a travel capsule. Plus: indie patterns for clothes that travel well, tips for sewing travel bags, and our memories of sewing for travel! We also answer a listener question about […]

We share tips and tricks for fiddly, persnickety, awkward, and complicated sewing techniques! We cover invisible zippers, darts, spaghetti straps, princess seams, and lots more. Plus, we share a listener’s experience with custom printed fabric and another listener’s sewing horror story. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the […]

In this episode, we interview low-waste pattern designer Cris Wood! We chat with her about how her patterns work, her design process, and what draws her to low-waste patternmaking. We also talk about her cool and colourful personal sewing. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. […]

We take a deep dive into TWO fabrics: corduroy AND velvet! Both of them have a fluffy, fuzzy, pile – but they’re not exactly the same. We chat about their history, how they’re made, and how to sew with them! Plus, we share pattern recommendations and answer your corduroy and velvet questions. The transcript for […]

In this episode, we interview Michelle Thomas-Elder, a designer, tailor, and sewing teacher who owns The Kut Studios, a co-working space for designers in LA! Michelle has made custom pieces for celebrities and altered haute couture gowns – and recently, she released her first book. She has amazing stories to tell and a “Say Yes” […]

In this episode, we talk about rising fashion trends for fall/winter ‘24/’25! We say how we REALLY feel about them and share some ideas for how to incorporate them into your me-mades. Let’s get trendy! The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end of the show notes. Show Notes:  “The 18 […]

We interview Geri Berman, AKA Geri in Stitches! Geri’s social media accounts are the happiest place in the sewing world – she shows off her jaw-dropping projects, shares lots of tips, and demonstrates interesting techniques, all with her signature high energy and positivity. We talk to her about hand dyeing, sashiko, and more! The transcript […]

We talk about a bunch of popular jacket styles and give fabric advice, sewing tips, and indie pattern recommendations for each one! We also talk about unusual details you find on jacket patterns and play “Is it a Jacket?” Plus, a listener question about options for non-staticky office tops. The transcript for this episode is […]

We interview Patrick Grant, Great British Sewing Bee judge, former director of Savile Row house Norton & Sons, and owner of sustainable brand Community Clothing! Patrick takes us behind the scenes of revered bespoke tailoring houses and discusses what it takes to become a Savile Row Tailor. We also chat with him about his journey […]

In this episode, we answer YOUR questions in another installment of the Sewing Help Line! We talk about cutting off-grain, sun-protective fabrics, how to adjust shorts that are two sizes too big, and lots more! Plus, we catch up about our summer adventures. The transcript for this episode is on this page at the end […]

We want to hear you brag! In this episode, we share our listeners’ proudest sewing moments. And maybe we’ll brag a little bit, too! Plus, we answer a question about sewing machine servicing and share feedback from our Long-Time Sewists episode. The transcript for this episode is on this page, at the end of the […]

We interview quilting icon Suzy Williams, a.k.a. Suzy Quilts! We chat with her about designing quilt patterns and fabric collections, hear the surprising story of how she learned to sew, and get some great advice about overcoming perfectionism. Plus, we chat about the meditative magic of the quilting process. The transcript for this episode is […]

How do you connect with other sewists in today’s social media landscape? In this episode, we talk about the benefits and drawbacks of the most popular social media platforms, give some tips and tricks for making sewing content that connects with people, and answer some listener questions about sewcializing. The transcript for this episode is […]

We interview Sandeep Sandhu, the owner of the amazing fabric store Sister Mintaka! She tells us how she chooses her beautiful fabrics, what advice she would give to small business owners in the sewing space, and all about her personal sewing. She’s not only a fabric mogul, she’s a style icon! The transcript for this […]

This episode is about one of our very favourite fabrics – Indian block prints! We explore the rich history of these textiles, the process of making them, and where to buy them. We also share a bunch of pattern ideas and sewing tips so you can incorporate these dreamy, light, beautiful fabrics into your wardrobe! […]

In this episode we’re interviewing Daisy Braid, also known as DIY Daisy! We chat with her about her book, Sew it Yourself, which is filled with pattern-free, wearable projects. She also tells us about her personal style evolution, how to find the good stuff when you’re shopping secondhand, and her year of DIY! The transcript […]

We love overalls and jumpsuits! In this episode, we talk about choosing the right style for you, matching it with the perfect fabric, and the pattern adjustments that are super important for these all-in-one garments. Plus: indie patterns, installing hardware, and more! And in the listener question section, we give some gift ideas for the […]