Love to Sew Podcast
Helen 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.
Episodes
Episode 307: Sewing IRL
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. Show Notes
Episode 306: We Sew Scraps
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. Show Notes
Episode 305: The Language of Sewing with Maddie Ballard
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. Show Notes
Episode 304: Presser Feet
This episode is all about presser feet! We cover all the basics, plus take you into truly mysterious territory. Like: how do you use a ruffler foot? Do you need a blind hem foot to sew a blind hem? And does my machine have a high shank or a low shank? We've got your answers! Show Notes
Episode 303: Crochet 101 with Nyala Rowe
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! Show Notes
Episode 302: We Sew Bags
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. Show Notes
Episode 301: Plus-Size Patternmaking with Leila Kelleher
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 use the book as a home sewist. Show Note
Episode 300: A Celebration
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! Show Notes
Episode 299: Rainwear
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! Show Notes
Episode 298: Building a Sewing Business with Sydney Graham
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." Show Notes
Episode 297: Hats
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! Show Notes
Episode 296: We Sew the Good Fabric
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 a listener question about altering a pants pattern from an elastic waist to a fitted waist and share
Episode 295: Inuit Sewing Traditions with Laura Pia Churchill
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. Show Notes
Episode 294: Do You Know This Notion?
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. Show Notes
Episode 293: Parents and Caregivers Who Sew
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! Show Notes
Episode 292: Sew the Look with Pauline Bruce
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 to dupe ready-to-wear looks. Show Notes
Episode 291: We Sew Fashion Trends
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. Show Notes
Episode 290: Projector Sewing
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 disagree!). We also answer a listener question about pants length adjustmen
Episode 289: Functional Style with Cornelius Quiring
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. Show Notes
Episode 288: We Sew Vests
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! Show Notes
Episode 287: Sewing Help Line 4.0
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 summer break. Show Notes
Episode 286: If You Could Only Sew One Thing
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! Show Notes
Episode 285: We Sew Eyelet
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. Show Notes
Episode 284: What If I Don't Love to Sew?
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 voicemails from listeners to start it all off! Show Notes
Episode 283: Hemp
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. Show Notes
Episode 282: We Sew Skorts
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! Show Notes
Episode 281: Historical Costuming with Christine Millar
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. Show Notes
Episode 280: Ease
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 grading between sizes vs. pattern adjustments. Show Notes
Episode 279: Reacting to Fashion Trends, Spring 2025
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. Show Notes
Episode 278: Happily Dressed with Brandon Hayden
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! Show Notes
Episode 277: Sewing Machine Chat
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 and pet peeves, and share what our machines are named! Show Notes
Free! Mini-Episode 59: Grading, Trimming, and Notching, Oh My!
We're bringing this mini-episode out from behind the paywall as a treat for you! It was originally released in September 2024. This mini-episode is about bread-and-butter sewing techniques that reduce bulk. We review the basics of grading, trimming, and notching, plus some more advanced and unexpected techniques that will give you a great finish. Caroline and Helen learn a lot about each other in
Bonus Episode 81
This month's bonus episode is free for all of our listeners! Helen chats about her holiday crafting: sewing, block printing, beading, and more. Caroline shares about her trip to NYC, what she's been cooking lately, and the pair of me-made pants that pushed her out of her style comfort zone. Plus, new indie pattern releases, a fun fantasy book, and a game that would make a great gift for a sewist.
Episode 276: Sewing Quick Wins
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 for quick win projects, including our personal faves! Show Notes
Episode 275: Fabric Design with Rashida Coleman-Hale
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. Show Notes
Episode 274: Sewing for Others
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 OUR experiences sewing for our loved ones! Show Notes
Episode 273: Sewing for Travel
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 sewing lace with big holes and share listener feedback about sewing motivation. S
Episode 272: Fiddly Sewing
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. Show Notes
Episode 271: Low-Waste Design with Cris Wood
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. Show Notes
Episode 270: Corduroy and Velvet
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. Show Notes
Episode 269: Say Yes with Michelle Thomas-Elder
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" attitude that we absolutely love. Show Notes
Episode 268: Reacting to Fashion Trends
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! Show Notes
Episode 267: All About the Process with Geri Berman
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! Show Notes
Episode 266: Jackets
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. Show Notes
Episode 265: The Savile Row Suit with Patrick Grant
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 to where he is now, buying fewer but better things, and the amazing
Episode 264: Sewing Help Line 3.0
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. Show Notes
Episode 263: Love to Brag
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. Show Notes
Episode 262: Quilting Magic with Suzy Williams (AKA Suzy Quilts!)
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. Show Notes
Episode 261: Sewcializing 3.0
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. Show Notes
Episode 260: Sister Mintaka with Sandeep Sandhu
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! Show Notes
Episode 259: Block Prints
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! Plus, we answer a listener question about sewing rulers. Show Notes
Episode 258: Pattern-Free Design with Daisy Braid
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! Show Notes
Episode 257: Overalls and Jumpsuits
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 sewist who has everything. Show Notes
Episode 256: Intuitive Sewing with Natalie Ebaugh
In 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
We 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
In 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
This 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
In 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
In 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
In 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
Episode 249: Sewing Bags
Today 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
In 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
In 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
In 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
This 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
In 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
In 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
In 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
In 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
We 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
In 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
You'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
You 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
Episode 236: Sewing for Pets
This 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
Knits 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 laughin
Episode 234: Sewing and Travel
Sewing 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 feedba
Episode 233: Gathers, Shirring, and Flounces
In 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
Crack 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
Double 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 s
Episode 230: Love to Quilt
YOU 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
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