Creativity and menopause: sewing through the change

While the motivation to sew can ebb and flow like never before, the menopause can be a time to celebrate creative growth – here’s how three inspiring sewists approached their practice during this challenging life stage…

Reflections on a year (or two) of mindful making

A while back I wrote about planning a year of sewing more intentionally. It’s time to round up the results and see if anything stuck – read on to find out what worked, what didn’t and the surprises that lurked along the way…

New adventures in embroidery: a guide for the restless dressmaker

Looking for something to occupy those fidgety digits of an evening? If you’re slowing your garment sewing, look no further than embroidery – it’s an easy leap with a number of surprising and unexpected satisfactions…

Sewing struggles: the secret to 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…

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…

Sewjo in lockdown – part two: creativity undercover

What happened to our sewjo? Lockdown has played with our desire to make in unexpected and sometimes unwanted ways. But it doesn’t have to be a sad story – it’s time to be kind to yourself and learn how, with a few gentle nudges, the mechanics of creativity will get you back on track in no time at all…