Love to Sew Podcast
280 episodes - English - Latest episode: 4 days ago - ★★★★★ - 1K ratingsHelen Wilkinson and Caroline Somos host Love to Sew, a fun weekly podcast about making clothes, sewing community, and small business. They talk about their passion for sewing a handmade wardrobe and their daily lives as creative entrepreneurs. Listen to interviews with indie business owners and inspiring sewists who totally understand your obsession with sewing.
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Episodes
Episode 258: Pattern-Free Design with Daisy Braid
April 23, 2024 04:00 - 55 minutes - 44.6 MBIn 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! Show Notes
Episode 257: Overalls and Jumpsuits
April 16, 2024 04:00 - 50 minutes - 40.7 MBWe 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 sewist who has everything. Show Notes
Episode 256: Intuitive Sewing with Natalie Ebaugh
April 09, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 52.1 MBIn this episode, we interview pattern designer, sewing teacher, quilted coat maker extraordinaire, and snappy dresser Natalie Ebaugh! She talks to us about her design process, her long career in the sewing community, and how she puts her amazing outfits together. Show Notes
Episode 255: Budget Sewing
April 02, 2024 04:00 - 47 minutes - 38.5 MBWe share four big strategies for saving money on sewing, with lots of helpful tips from our listeners. You can make amazing things without spending a lot - or anything at all! Show Notes
Episode 254: Waxprint Fabrics with Jacqueline Shaw
March 26, 2024 04:00 - 51 minutes - 41.6 MBIn this episode, we interview Jacqueline Shaw, an expert on African fabrics and fashion. We chat with her about waxprint (also called ankara, African print, or kitenge) - what it is, how it’s made, what you can sew with it, and lots more! Jacqueline is a successful and passionate entrepreneur with a deep knowledge of the subject. Listen in and get inspired! Show Notes
Episode 253: Lace
March 19, 2024 04:00 - 46 minutes - 37.6 MBThis episode is all about lace! What it is, how to sew with it, and WHAT to sew with it. Plus, an overview of the history of lace, the different kinds of lace, and your lace questions, answered! We also answer a listener question about how to draft a paneled circle skirt. Show Notes
Episode 252: Haute Couture with Kenneth D. King
March 12, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 48.3 MBIn this episode, we interview Kenneth D. King - couture designer, technical sewing wizard, teacher, writer, and contributing editor to Threads Magazine. We chat with him about the couture techniques he developed himself, his storied career, and his latest book: Doll Couture! Show Notes
Episode 251: Muslins/Toiles 101
March 05, 2024 05:00 - 58 minutes - 46.7 MBIn this episode, we’re taking you through all the steps of making test garments, a.k.a. muslins, a.k.a. toiles! From choosing the right fabric to how to cut it, baste it, and adjust it, we’ll demystify this sewing step so you can get your perfect fit and style. Plus, we have a little chatty catch-up about what we did during our winter break. Show Notes
Episode 250: Sewing and Media
November 28, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 50 MBIn this episode, we head to the place where sewing and media meet! First, we share some TV shows, movies, podcasts, and audiobooks that are about sewing. Then, we share recommendations from us and listeners about non-sewing-related media we love to put on while we sew. We also share some tips for how to actually hear or see media while you’re at the machine. Plus, we share listener feedback about a me-made wedding dress, a roller sewing machine foot, and the archaeology of sewing needles. ...
Episode 249: Sewing Bags
November 21, 2023 05:00 - 56 minutes - 45.1 MBToday we're diving deep into bag making! We talk about the best fabrics to use, how to give your bags structure, and how to make a bag that's both functional and stylish. We also demystify bag hardware and share some great indie bag patterns! Plus, we answer listener questions about making IRL sewing friends and picking up tiny threads after seam ripping. Show Notes
Episode 248: Caroline's Wedding Dress Journey
November 14, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 58.6 MBIn this episode, Caroline tells us all about making her own wedding dress! From designing to fabric shopping to muslining to hand finishing, she shares her joys and her lessons learned. Congratulations, Caroline! Show Notes
Episode 247: Hand Sewing with Bernadette Banner
November 07, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 56.3 MBIn this episode, we interview Bernadette Banner, historical sewist extraordinaire! She answers all of our hand sewing questions, chats with us about historical clothing, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her YouTube channel. Show Notes
Episode 246: Sewing the Decades
October 31, 2023 04:00 - 52 minutes - 41.8 MBIn this episode, we’re getting inspired by vintage styles from the 1920s to the 1990s! We’re going to talk about the typical silhouettes, styles, and fabrics from each decade. We’ll also share media to watch to get inspired and indie patterns that have the decade’s vibe. So get in the time machine - we’re going window shopping! Show Notes
Episode 245: Applique
October 24, 2023 04:00 - 39 minutes - 31.7 MBThis episode is all about applique! We’re going to share some applique inspo, walk you through different methods of machine and hand applique, and give you a bunch of tips. Applique a quilt, applique your clothes, applique a wall hanging - you’ll want to applique your whole life by the time we’re finished! Show Notes
Episode 244: Nurturing Creativity with Larrie King
October 17, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 53.5 MBIn this episode, we interview crafter extraordinaire Larrie King, also known as Mister Larrie! We chat with him about nurturing creativity, improv quilting, and trying allll the things. Is there a craft Larrie hasn’t attempted? Let’s find out! Show Notes
Episode 243: Long-Time Sewists
October 10, 2023 04:00 - 57 minutes - 46 MBIn this episode, we’re sharing stories from long-time sewists! The sewists featured in this episode have been sewing for over 40 years - but some have been sewing for over 60. Wow! They share their sewing memories, advice, and perspectives on changes in the sewing world. Show Notes
Episode 242: Sewing Costumes
October 03, 2023 04:00 - 47 minutes - 38.1 MBIn today’s treat of an episode, we’re talking about sewing costumes! We’ll share the costumes we’ve made and worn, talk about special costume considerations, give some tips for working with unusual fabrics, and share some costume ideas! We’re just DYING to dress up! Show Notes
Episode 241: Sew Outdoorsy with Claire Birnie
September 26, 2023 04:00 - 58 minutes - 47.1 MBIn this episode, we interview Claire Birnie from Sew Outdoorsy! We chat with her about technical fabrics, weatherproofing your me-mades, gear sewing techniques, and designing plus size patterns for activewear. Show Notes
Episode 240: Yokes and Shoulder Details
September 19, 2023 04:00 - 35 minutes - 28.8 MBWe answer a bunch of questions in this episode: What even is a yoke, anyways? Are my shoulders weird? How do I DIY those cute western embellishments on my me-mades? We share ideas, inspo, pattern adjustments, and more! Plus, we answer a listener question about making elastic waistbands easier to sew and wear. Show Notes
Episode 239: Being Scared and Doing It Anyway with Wendy Liu
September 11, 2023 16:00 - 1 hour - 60.8 MBIn this episode, we interview Wendy Liu, also known as WithWendy! We chat with her about DIY-ing designer clothes, thrifting fabrics, making mistakes, and producing amazing sewing videos on YouTube. Show Notes
Episode 238: Sewing Help Line 2.0
September 05, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 52.8 MBYou’ve reached the Love to Sew Help Line! What’s your sewing struggle? In this episode, we’re taking your calls and giving out advice - on how to upcycle overalls into pants, what fabrics to use for summer shorts and trousers, whether or not to backstitch when shirring, and more! Plus, we catch up about our summer adventures and announce a new way to support Love to Sew. Show Notes
Episode 237: Ask Us Anything
May 30, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 69 MBYou asked, we answer! In this episode, we answer questions about lots of different topics, including: Caroline’s wedding dress, Helen’s board game recommendations, impostor syndrome, dealing with negative feedback, and our favourite pizza toppings. When we said ask us anything, we meant it! Plus, we give a personal update on our lives and businesses for the past eight months, play a fun game, and share a WIP organization tip from a drag queen listener. Show Notes
Episode 236: Sewing for Pets
May 23, 2023 04:00 - 48 minutes - 38.9 MBThis episode is filled with ideas for sewing projects to make for your fur babies! We recommend patterns, fabrics, and sewing techniques that will keep your pets safe, entertained, and adorable. Plus, we chat about our own pets, answer a question about how to fix a dress pattern that comes out shorter in front, and share a listener tip about soluble basting thread. Show Notes
Episode 235: This Way or That Way
May 16, 2023 04:00 - 50 minutes - 40.2 MBKnits vs. wovens! Late night sewing vs. daytime sewing! Making a muslin vs just going for it! In this episode, Helen and Caroline have friendly debates over different approaches to sewing. They weigh the pros and cons of each choice before revealing their personal preferences - and the results of our Instagram polls (nearly 3,000 of you responded!). It’s all in good fun - there is a lot of laughing in this episode. Plus, listener questions about using fabric that goes over a pattern’s recomm...
Episode 234: Sewing and Travel
May 09, 2023 04:00 - 56 minutes - 45.6 MBSewing is a good thing. Travel is a good thing. Put them together and you get a GREAT thing! In this episode, we talk about taking your sewing with you on your travels, planning sewing-themed activities for your trips, and how to make your me-mades presentable while travelling. Plus, we talk about sewing retreats, sewing conventions, and planning your own sewing trip! We also share listener feedback about shopping for sewing souvenirs while traveling, crafty Vancouver recommendations, and an...
Episode 233: Gathers, Shirring, and Flounces
May 02, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 51.2 MBIn this episode, we share all the info you need to get gorgeous gathers, stretchy shirring, and fluttery flounces. This episode is packed with techniques and tips! We also recommend lots of patterns and share pattern hack ideas. Plus: a listener writes to us about gathers in quilting. Show Notes
Episode 232: WIP Woes
April 25, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 48.7 MBCrack that WIP! In this episode, we chat about why projects become works-in-progress, how to organize your WIP pile, and strategies to work through your WIPs. We also answer a listener question about brushed fabrics - and share an upcoming sewing-themed cozy mystery novel that features Helen’s Closet! Plus, a challenge: #LoveToSewWIPs! Show Notes
Episode 231: Double Gauze
April 18, 2023 04:00 - 47 minutes - 38.3 MBDouble gauze is a lightweight, breathable, cloud-like fabric that often has a nice crinkly texture. In this episode, we answer all your questions about sewing it - how to pre-wash it, how to keep it from fraying too much, and most importantly: DO YOU PRESS IT?! Listen in for all our best tips and pattern recommendations. Plus, we answer a listener question about how to prevent and treat underarm sweat stains! Show Notes
Episode 230: Love to Quilt
April 11, 2023 04:00 - 1 hour - 54.9 MBYOU can quilt! In this episode, Helen shares a bunch of reasons to love quilting, walks quilting newbie Caroline through the steps of the quilting process, and recommends projects for beginner quilters. If you’re quilt-curious, this episode may just make you a quilter! Plus, we answer a listener question about the minimum of tools you’ll need to quilt if you’re a garment sewist. Show Notes
Episode 229: Kids and Teens Who Sew
April 04, 2023 04:00 - 42 minutes - 33.7 MBWelcome to the future of sewing! We share stories from kid and teen sewists - creative, kind, enthusiastic young people who are getting ready to take on the world. We also share resources to help the kids in your life learn to sew! Plus, we answer a listener question about telling pattern pieces apart and making construction steps easier to follow. Show Notes
Episode 228: Garment Guts
March 28, 2023 04:00 - 40 minutes - 32.1 MBGarment guts are the hidden parts of the garment that give it shape, structure, and functionality. In this episode, we talk about boning, padding, underskirts, horsehair braid, waist stays, pad stitching, and more! We also answer listener questions about fabric labeling, wringing out fabric, and when to buy a serger. Show Notes
Episode 227: Sewing for a Changing Body
March 21, 2023 04:00 - 39 minutes - 31.6 MBBodies change - it’s a fact of life! In this episode, we share strategies for how to sew for yourself when your body is changing - from making new garments that will fit over several sizes to altering and refashioning old me-mades. This episode is packed with info! Plus, we answer a listener question about where to find challenging sewing patterns. Show Notes
Episode 226: Fabric Q&A
March 14, 2023 05:00 - 46 minutes - 37.6 MBWe answer questions from our listeners about a variety of fabrics, including ramie, cupro, silk pique, bull denim, tulle, and more! Plus: the perfect T-shirt fabric, burn testing, and fabric for work pants that won’t wrinkle. We also share listener feedback from the Home Decor episode. Show Notes
Episode 225: Sleeves
March 07, 2023 05:00 - 57 minutes - 46.2 MBJoin us for a discussion of everything sleeves! We review the three main types of sleeves, walk you through several methods of attaching set-in sleeves, and offer lots of sleeve sewing tips. Plus, we cover sleeve fitting, sleeve pattern hacking, and our favourite sleeve styles. Show Notes
Episode 224: Sewing Help Line
November 29, 2022 05:00 - 59 minutes - 47.6 MBHello Caller, this is the Love to Sew Help Line! What’s your sewing struggle? We answer questions from our listeners about pattern alterations, interfacing, re-fashioning, regaining sewjo after a long break, and more! We also share an inspiring listener email about whether or not to go to fashion school. Show Notes
Episode 223: Fancy Weaves
November 22, 2022 05:00 - 53 minutes - 43 MBWe dive into fancy weaves - those fabrics that are made with special looms, special tools, special yarn twists, or otherwise unusual processes! We cover satins, jacquards, velvets, dobby weaves, and more, describing what they’re like, how they’re made, and how to sew with them. We also give advice to a listener who’s starting her own business. Show Notes
Episode 222: Machine Stitches
November 15, 2022 05:00 - 48 minutes - 38.9 MBHave you ever looked at all the stitches you can do on your machine and wondered, “What’s that one for?” In this episode, we explain the function of each stitch, give tips on how to get the best results from machine stitching, and share some ideas for how to use decorative stitches. We also share listener feedback about sewing social media platforms! Show Notes
Episode 221: Home Decor Sewing
November 08, 2022 04:00 - 1 hour - 48.2 MBHome decor sewing can make your house into a warm, inviting home! In this episode, we chat about the home decor fabrics, notions, and tools you’ll need to do a bevy of projects. We also give home-decor specific sewing tips, share the projects we’ve made ourselves, and discuss inspiring project ideas. Plus, listener feedback about our quilted garments episode! Show Notes
Episode 220: Bralettes
November 01, 2022 04:00 - 42 minutes - 33.9 MBSoft, cute, and always wire-free, we are HERE for bralettes! In this episode, we talk about the fabrics, patterns, and techniques you can use to make the perfect bralette for you. We review the different ways bralettes can give support, notions you might need, and how to switch out finishes. We also share listener feedback about chalk hem markers! Show Notes
Episode 219: Sewing Horror Stories
October 25, 2022 04:00 - 36 minutes - 29.5 MBIs there anything scarier than a really bad sewing mishap? Okay, there are a few things, but this episode is about the sewing moments that made our listeners’ hearts drop. We share their funny and harrowing stories, plus answer a listener question about getting a flat bias tape-finished neckline. Happy Spooky Season! Show Notes
Episode 218: History of Sewing Patterns
October 18, 2022 04:00 - 44 minutes - 35.3 MBHome sewing patterns put knowledge and power in the hands of ordinary people, changing fashion forever. In this episode, we go back to the beginnings of sewing patterns in the mid-19th century (and a little bit earlier). We talk about the enormous shifts in technology and lifestyles through the nearly two centuries that followed - and we even predict the future of sewing patterns! Plus, a listener question about fashion school and life direction. Show Notes
Episode 217: Sewing Quilted Garments
October 11, 2022 04:00 - 54 minutes - 44 MBThis episode is all about making cozy cool quilted garments! We talk you through every step: choosing fabric, making patchwork, quilting, assembling, and finishing. We also review batting options, give seam finishing tips specifically for those bulky quilt seams, and chat about inspiring quilted garments we love. In our listener question section, we recommend A-line skirt patterns in plus sizes and name a source of nickel-free jeans buttons and rivets. Show Notes
Episode 216: Caring for your Me-Mades
October 04, 2022 04:00 - 43 minutes - 34.8 MBFrom laundering to mending, this episode is all about caring for your precious me-made garments! We cover pre-washing, sewing tips to make your clothes last, stain removal, storage, and more. Plus, a listener letter about swim trunks notions! Show Notes
Episode 215: Surprising Gadgets and Guidance
September 27, 2022 04:30 - 39 minutes - 31.9 MBWe share your most unexpected tips and tools in this community episode! From fun gadgets to expert guidance, be prepared to have your mind blown! Show Notes
Episode 214: What's your Me-Made Style?
September 20, 2022 04:30 - 37 minutes - 30.3 MBIn this episode, we review components of design (volume, colour, texture, print, and more) so that you can pinpoint your ideal personal style. Then we offer suggestions to bring your ideal down to earth so that it’s wearable in your everyday life. Plus: how to have fun with fashion, a listener question about getting flat knit neck bands, and our favourite part: the phrases listeners use to describe their style! Show Notes
Episode 213: Hems
September 13, 2022 04:00 - 50 minutes - 40.5 MBA-HEM! In this episode, we get to the bottom of hems: techniques, tools, and tips for wovens and knits. Plus: marking hems, adjusting hem depth, and fancy hems! The listener feedback is all about changing robes/ponchos. Show Notes
Episode 212: 5th Anniversary Special
September 06, 2022 04:00 - 54 minutes - 44 MBWe celebrate five years of Love to Sew with a chatty catch-up, a bit of reflection, and a bunch of sewing-themed games! Thank you for five wonderful years! Show Notes
Episode 211: Sewing Love Letters
May 31, 2022 04:00 - 41 minutes - 33.1 MBGet ready for the lovey-dovey-est episode ever! We share your touching, funny, creative love letters to sewing teachers, sewing tools, sewing machines, fabric, friends, family, and sewing itself. Show Notes
Episode 210: Boldness and Buttons with Tabitha Sewer
May 24, 2022 04:00 - 1 hour - 48.1 MBTabitha Sewer is a sewing content creator, button designer, and business expert. We chat with her about sewing with unusual fabrics, creating designer looks for less, thrift flipping, and her amazing buttons! She also takes us behind the scenes of creating content for some of the biggest brands in the world. Show Notes
Episode 209: Sewing Swimwear 2.0
May 17, 2022 04:00 - 52 minutes - 41.9 MBFour years after our first Sewing Swimwear episode, we’re back on the topic with more sewing tips, better fabric information, and lots of great pattern recommendations! We also cover ideas for adapting non-swimwear patterns into swimwear, swim coverup ideas, places to buy swimwear fabric, and a review of all the swimwear we have sewn ourselves. Plus: listener feedback from our Getting Started with Pattern Drafting episode! Show Notes