Sensing a sewjo downturn? The ebb and flow of creativity is a natural part of the process, so it’s good to understand what is happening before you give up. Read on for ten top tips on how to stay motivated and build a creative habit…
Motivation and productivity
Introducing: Grinlow Studio
It’s been a while, but I’m back with a bit of a spruce up – welcome to Grinlow Studio!
Share your sewing struggles for sewing success
Whether you’re just getting into sewing or you’ve been at it for a hundred years, sometimes it can feel like everyone around you is a sewing wizard while you’re constantly fielding mishaps. Well, dear reader, it’s simply not the case! I think it’s high time we share our sewing struggles so we can fully celebrate those successes…
Continue reading ➞ Share your sewing struggles for sewing success
Sewing mindfully: 10 principles for an intentional year of making
After a year of sorting and refining my me-made wardrobe, I’m planning on a more purposeful sewing trajectory this year. The makes wish list grows and grows, but I’ve resolved to tame the beast as best I can so that when I sew, it counts. So, if you’re looking for an alternative way to plan your sewing this year, here are a few guiding principles for a more relaxed and intentional year of making…
Continue reading ➞ Sewing mindfully: 10 principles for an intentional year of making
Can you save money sewing your own coat?
Sewing coats is hugely satisfying, but the expense of coating fabrics, linings and interfacings – not to mention patterns and notions – can seem off-putting. Is it possible to sew a decent winter coat for less than you’d pay on the high street? Read on to find out…
Sewing for your nether regions: new thrills for the jaded sewist
I’m just going to come right out and say it: I made sanitary towels. And do you know what? The process delighted me as much as, if not more than, sewing a pretty dress. Making things from scratch you previously considered impossible to make from scratch – the things that fall into the category of ‘I buy them’ – is a uniquely satisfying proposition. So read on (if you dare!) to find out why our ‘unmentionables’ might be just the ticket for sewjo joy…
Continue reading ➞ Sewing for your nether regions: new thrills for the jaded sewist
Six reasons to love sewing coats and outerwear
When it comes to coats, I’m firmly in the Luther Vandross camp: never too much or too many. I love a good coat and get a real kick out of being able to make my own outerwear exactly how I want it . Not convinced? Read on for six great reasons to get into – and sew! – coats this winter.
Continue reading ➞ Six reasons to love sewing coats and outerwear
Sewing the Papercut Patterns Waver Jacket: review, hacks and tips
The Papercut Patterns Waver Jacket might just have saved my sewing practice this year: a slow burning passion project that kept the creative flame alive. Read on to find out more about this versatile pattern and some hacks and tips on how to turn it (or any other simple jacket for that matter) into a sturdy piece of Scandi-style outerwear…
Continue reading ➞ Sewing the Papercut Patterns Waver Jacket: review, hacks and tips
Sewing productivity: five ways to build a creative habit
When it comes to creativity, no amount of equipment or space will ever contribute as much to your productivity levels as building the habit of creating. Easier said than done, a habit is an elusive beast that will give you the slip first chance it gets. If you want to up your sewing ante, read on for five tips to snare a reliable sewing habit for life…
Continue reading ➞ Sewing productivity: five ways to build a creative habit
On failure and creativity: why sewing ‘fails’ are always wins
According to the annual Good Childhood Report, children in the UK have the lowest levels of life satisfaction across Europe – largely because they are afraid to fail. Where did we go wrong? And could ‘sewing fails’ be the answer? Read on to find out how failure is an integral part of creative endeavour
Continue reading ➞ On failure and creativity: why sewing ‘fails’ are always wins
Grinlow Studio 