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About Satchmo

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About Check Your Thread

Hello! Welcome to Check Your Thread, a podcast about sewing more sustainably. Each episode we enjoy nerding out about sewing, whilst picking up ideas and useful tips for how to reduce our impact on the environment. My aim is always to approach topics with a sense of curiosity and fun, and hope to leave our listeners feeling inspired by the end of each episode.

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This week on the podcast we’re expanding our investigations into sewing more sustainably, to include more sustainable quilting and textile art! Quilter and textile artist, Bridget O’Flaherty @thesustainablequilter, makes Threads of Sustainability: a podcast with remarkably similar motivations to CYT.
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We discuss the many parallels between our perspective disciplines in relation to sustainability, and some of the areas where they diverge.
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Make sure you check out Threads of Sustainability, there are so many awesome episodes with interesting and knowledgeable guests.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #quiltingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #textileart #quilting #threadpainting #usewhatyouhave

This week on the podcast we’re expanding our investigations into sewing more sustainably, to include more sustainable quilting and textile art! Quilter and textile artist, Bridget O’Flaherty @thesustainablequilter, makes Threads of Sustainability: a podcast with remarkably similar motivations to CYT.
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We discuss the many parallels between our perspective disciplines in relation to sustainability, and some of the areas where they diverge.
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Make sure you check out Threads of Sustainability, there are so many awesome episodes with interesting and knowledgeable guests.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #quiltingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #textileart #quilting #threadpainting #usewhatyouhave

As mentioned in this week’s episode intro, 20th May is World Bee Day! 🥳🐝 Of course, every day should be bee and pollinator day, but these ‘days’ give us a good excuse to focus on a topic, have conversations and share info and ideas.
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This week, my kids and I made a bee hotel for solitary species of bee. After some research we discovered the following:
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- they should be positioned in full sun if possible, at least 1m higher than the ground.
- they should be securely fastened, rather than allowed to swing around in the wind.
- the holes should be between 2-10mm in diameter.
- small hotels are better than larger ones as they reduce the risk of parasites and mould.
- they should be cleaned out at the end of each summer.
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I’ll be sharing more ideas for how we can help our bee pals in the intro to next week’s episode.
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Wishing you an awesome weekend! 🐝😘
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #makerspodcast #worldbeeday #pollinatorfriendly #pollinatorgarden #sustainability #sustainableliving

Do you have questions about natural dyeing? Like, how can I have a go only with stuff that’s already in my kitchen? Return-guest and natural dye expert, @msamytaylor, breaks it all down and answers all the questions submitted by CYT listeners.
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Amy has such a fantastic energy, and her passion for this subject is clear and infectious. You’re going to love this episode.
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BTW, don’t forget to subscribe/like/follow the Check Your Thread podcast in the app you use to listen with.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #makerspodcast #naturaldye #naturaldyes #naturaldyeing #indigodye #naturaldyersofinstagram

My Rain Today app is sadly showing a very accurate reading right now! In this week’s episode’s intro, I was talking about the pros of drying laundry outside when at all possible. I find this app indispensable for getting laundry dried. General weather forecast apps are too vague, I need to know what’s going on for the next hour DOWN TO THE FREAKING MINUTE!
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This app is free and only for apple, and I do recommend it. But I’m sure there heaps of others for both apple and android that are just as good.
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BTW, I totally know and understand that drying laundry outside (even some of the time) isn’t possible for everyone. I’m not trying to guilt-trip anybody for using their tumble dryer when it’s their only option!
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But if you can, at least occasionally, hang your laundry up to dry on a washing line, clothes horse, clothes rack or airer (preferably outside to reduce the levels of moisture inside your home), then it’ll save you money on electricity AND help your textiles to last longer.
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It really pisses me off when I hear from people who live in flat/apartment buildings with outside space and/or balconies that have rules preventing drying laundry outside. Has anyone experienced that? Has anyone pushed back against or ignored such rules? Do tell!
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Oh and the last pic is the three, yes THREE, loads of laundry I was able to line-dry yesterday when the weather was sunny and breezy. I fully acknowledge I could only do this because I largely work from home. But I’m still celebrating. Got to get your wins where you can…
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sustainableliving #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #garmentcare #imakemyownclothes

If you were unable to attend the @sewsustainablefair in London last month then this episode will help you feel like you were! Through the power of audio, you can come along with me to the event! Hear some of the awesome conversations I had with the organisers, helpers and businesses in attendance, plus my ramblings as I travel to and from the venue.
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You will hear from Sarah Richards, the creator and organiser of the event, plus owner of @oliveroadlondon, a vintage fabric purveyor. We talked about how the event came to be, and she offers tips for others wanting to start something similar where they live.
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I also had a fun catch up with previous-podcast-guest @revansmerritt! It was wonderful to meet her IRL, and hear about her recent sewing exploits.
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I got to meet Yvette from @stash_hub app, the sewing organisation app. She explained how cataloging your sewing resources can help you get the most from what you’ve already bought, and help you save money.
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Plus I finally got to meet the awesome Louise from @ethelandjoan (after friend-of-the-podcast @whatnaomimade told me a million times we’d get on!). Ethel and Joan create gorgeous buttons, buckles, pin tidies and jewellery. We spoke about the power of good buttons, and how sustainability factors into her business decisions.
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I hope you like this one. I had a lot of fun making it, and I’m excited to bring you a slightly different type of episode this week.
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Don’t forget to subscribe/like/favourite Check Your Thread in you my podcast app of choice so you don’t miss future episodes.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewsustainablefair #sewingevent #vintagefabric #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing

Ok, I apologise, it’s not super obvious what’s going on in this pic. If you’ve listened to this week’s episode with alterations expert @naomifata, you will have heard me have a revelation about an ill-fitting jumpsuit in real-time.
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A couple of summers ago, I made the #peppermintvalleyjumpsuit in this wonderful African cotton that was kindly given to me by previous guest Jacqueline from @waxandwraps. I adore it, but it’s too short in the body, making me want to take it off after a short time.
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Whilst answering some patrons’ questions, Naomi was discussing scooping out the crotch curve of trousers that are too short in the rise. So that’s what I’ve decided to try on my jumpsuit.
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In this pic, you can just about see the new stitching line drawn on in frixon pen. I lowered it by about an inch at the deepest point. Since taking this pic, I have stitching it in and tried it on. I can declare that it’s made a real difference to the comfort levels of this jumpsuit! Next I need to finish the raw edge, and the weather needs to warm up so I can wear it outdoors.
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I think the key to this scooping technique, or any reshaping really, is to blend in the new stitching line as smoothly as possible. Thanks @naomifata for helping make my jumpsuit more wearable!
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If you’ve listened to this week’s episode, what part/point/recommendation stood out to you in particular?
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #garmentalterations #makedoandmend #repairwhatyouwear #slowsewing #slowstitching

Do you have garments in your wardrobe, self-made or otherwise, that you really like but you never wear because they don’t fit you well? If you’re participating in #memademay this year, you’re about to discover a few. Could you use some advice on how to approach the alteration process, evaluate those garments and work out what’s possible? Alterations expert @naomifata talks with me about all this and more on this week’s episode.
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We cover when it’s worth attempting an alteration, when it’s better to live with the issue, and when it’s time to find the garment a new owner. Plus, Naomi shares her hot takes on the best ways to make garments smaller and larger, and we even get stuck into the thorny issue of trouser fitting…
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If you find this episode useful, make sure you subscribe/favourite/follow Check Your Thread in your podcast app of choice. Plus sign up for @naomifata’s excellent newsletter.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #memademay2023 #sewingpodcast #garmentalterations #sewingsos #sewersofinstagram #sewistsofinstagram #handmadewardrobe

Fancy having a go a growing some fruit or veggies but feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options? In this week’s podcast episode, my guest @thecrapactivist suggested one approach: pick something from the ‘dirty dozen’ list and try growing that.
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The dirty dozen are the 12 fruits and veggies that, when commercially grown, contain the most pesticides (and possibly fungicides and fertilisers? I’m not sure). There is some argument over whether, or how much, these chemicals effect the people consuming them. But whatever the result on those eating them, we really need to be moving away from the excessive level of pesticide use currently happening. They are having an incredibly detrimental effect on biodiversity, and poisoning our soil which will make it harder to grow food in the future. And as @thecrapactivist pointed out, we need to increase our food production in the future to meet the needs of a growing population, not reduce it.
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In our conversation Rachel (AKA the Crap Activist) shared her approach to coping with and responding to the big, global issues by finding something she can tackle in her everyday life. And growing a couple of plants is something that many of us can do. It’s also incredibly rewarding and fun.
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Personally, this year, I plan to grow tomatoes, kale and spinach from this list. Plus I plan to grow other things that I can substitute the ‘dirty’ foods for. I’m growing chard that can be used like spinach or kale when I don’t have enough of those, raspberries instead of strawberries, figs instead of apples (all with a massive pinch of 🤞🏼).
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What about you? Are you going to try growing any of the dirty dozen this year, or any substitutes?
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(Photo from @algaecal)
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #growyourown #growyourownfood #dirtydozen #homegrown #selfsufficiency #ecoliving

We’re back! Thanks for your patience as I took a two week break from releasing episodes. I’ve got a real treat for you this week…
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Do you consider yourself a climate activist? If many of your everyday life decisions are made with the planet in mind, then I would argue that you definitely should.
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Rachel, AKA @thecrapactivist chose to fast track her activism by making one positive change every single day for an entire year. In this week’s episode, she shares her surprising wins and fails, and gives tips on successfully bringing your family along for the ride…
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If you enjoy this episode, then please share it with a friend.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainability #sustainabilitypodcast #ecoliving #growyourownfood #growyourfood #usewhatyouhave #climateactivist #climateactivism #sustainableliving

Hi all! It’s been a bit quiet round these parts because the kids are home for their Easter break and we just spent a wonderful week in the Netherlands. Honestly, it was the better than we could have hoped and I feel so energised and inspired now we’re back.
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I’m going to drop some photos from out trip taken in Amsterdam and Rotterdam on the CYT Patreon feed next week. So if you fancy a look but aren’t already a supporter of the podcast, you can sign up for any amount of your choosing (link in bio). But in the meantime I wanted to share that I got to meet up with two previous podcast guests: Grace Whowell, owner of @beyond_measure_uk and Saskia de Feijter from #asmallerlifepodcast and the #jawolcommunity. It was a massive coincidence that Grace (who lives in the UK) and I happened to be in Rotterdam at the same time! It was super fun to meet them IRL.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast

Are you planning to challenge yourself in Me-Made-May this year? Have you taken part in the past? Are you not sure what I’m talking about? Or do you have a good idea, but you’d like a refresher? This week’s episode tells you everything you need to know to get the most from the wardrobe challenge that I accidentally started 14 years ago!
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Please note: no podcast episodes will be released for two weeks over the Easter break 🐣. I’m taking a trip and dealing with my kids! This would be a great opportunity to catch up on any episodes that you’ve missed, or re-listen to any that you particularly enjoyed 😉. Take care x
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #memademay #memademay2023 #memademayplus #memademayfat #sewingchallenge #wardrobechallenge #sewingpodcast #iwearwhatisew #handmadewardrobe

Today’s episode is all about refashioning unwanted items. So what ARE the benefits of refashioning for those of us who like to sew our own clothes?
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For years, Portia Lawrie @portialawrie has focused her creativity on refashioning, and has just written an excellent book, ‘The Re:fashion Wardrobe’, which contains all her hard-won knowledge, approaches and tips. In this episode, Portia makes the case for why more of YOUR projects should start with existing textiles…
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #refashionedclothing #refashioning #upcycledclothing #therefashionwardrobe #therefashioners #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sustainableliving #sustainablefashion #handmadewardrobe

Protect ya tech!!! (I love a 90s hip hop reference, if you hadn’t guessed 😂) Last weekend I made these cases, or sleeping bags, for my kids’ tablets. The original impetus was the trip we’re going on next month, however, they’ve been using them on the daily.
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This project was inspired by my conversation with @shamseldinrogers in episode 81 about making things for travel, and this week’s guest Rachel @fibre.and.space who made some wonderful, useful pouches and purses to take on her travels.
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Because I’m taking part in #lastsewiststanding everything to make these had to already be in my possession. Thanks to @easy_peasy_creative_ideas for the original inspo, swipe to the end to see their version. It appealed to me because it uses Velcro, rather than a zip, which I’m running low on and therefore are a precious resource because of the challenge.
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I started out by making a basic pattern, choosing to put the opening at the short end instead. I found some scraps of pre-quilted fabric leftover from a bomber jacket I recently made for my husband. I didn’t have enough bias binding in my stash so I made my own using scraps of African wax fabric leftover from a blouse project. I added name labels because my kids both wanted the green side as the outside.
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Have you made anything recently for a forthcoming trip? Or to protect your tech?
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingleftovers #usewhatyouhave #usewhatihave #scrapbusting #scrapbuster #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably

Hello Check Your Thread Head! So tell me, could you sew only with second hand fabric? 🤔 No more fabric shopping, only thrifting and receiving donations. Would that feel frustrating, or would it unlock some inner creativity and resourcefulness? Space scientist and passionate maker, Rachel Kirby @fibre.and.space, sews almost exclusively within this limitation, and spills the tea on how and why it works for her.
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I thoroughly enjoyed talking to Rachel, and I know you’ll love hearing from her also. It was super interesting to learn how her geology background helped inform her ‘fabric first’ approach, plus how her knitting is helping with representation in a largely white, male dominated field of science.
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If you enjoy this, or any episode of CYT, a free way to give support is to leave a rating and quick review in your podcast app. Thanks!
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #sustainableliving #secondhandfirst #usewhatyouhave #fabricfirst #thriftedfabric #sewersofinstagram #sewistsofinstagram #knittersofinstagram

I was very happy to discover this week that #checkyourthreadpodcast has had a little mention in the ‘Entertainmint’ section of @peppermintmagazine (issue 57). I have a lot of time for Peppermint magazine, their ethos and ethics align very closely with mine. Plus they have long supported sewers (including those on a limited budget) by offering an outstanding range of #freesewingpatterns. (If you use their patterns, please support them in return by making a donation, or buying the magazine, if you can afford to do so.) So I’m delighted that they have noticed the work I’m doing with CYT and decided to shine s light on it 🥰.
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If you have come here thanks to the Peppermint mag mention, welcome! Please find Check Your Thread in your podcast-app-of-choice, then like/favourite/subscribe to enjoy nerding out about making clothes, whilst learning how to reduce the negative impact that it may have…
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#checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #peppermintmagazine

Will you be taking any trips this year? Are you a short, city-break kind of traveller like me, or do you have a more adventurous trip planned like @shamseldinrogers?
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There’s no denying that travel in any form has an environmental impact to some degree, but how can we travel more sustainably? And how can sewing help us to do that? CYT regular, Shams, and I discuss all this and more, and in the process offer up heaps of suggestions that you can apply to YOUR next trip!
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Don’t forget to favourite/subscribe/follow Check Your Thread in your podcast-app-of-choice so you don’t miss future episodes!
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewingmoresustainably #travellingmoresustainably #sustainabletravel #sustainabletravelling #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #kanga #africantextiles #africanfabric #eurostar

She’s done it!!!! Previous-guest and inspiring maker @judywillimentross has completed her #scrappyjacket! What an achievement 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
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Judy is committed to using as much of the materials she sources as possible, and creates true works of wearable art in the process. I love how those works of art do actually see plenty of use, however! Hers are well-fitting, fully functional garments that will no doubt inspire countless people as she moves through the world!
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The idea for this particular project was sparked by a conversation we had for CYT. If you haven’t already, make sure you listen to Episode 69: Making Mindfully with Judy Williment-Ross. You will find it in any podcast app, or you can listen directly from the CYT website, link in bio.
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Also make sure you click through to @judywillimentross to get full details of this triumph of a project! (Picture credit: Judy Williment-Ross, used with permission.)
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #scrapbusting #scrapbuster #useitupwearitoutmakeitdoordowithout #usewhatyouhave

Do you ever think about all the useful stuff that gets thrown away, every single day, and how to get it into the hands of people who need it? It’s something I think about a lot but I must admit I do nothing about.
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In this week’s podcast episode, return-guest Noah Hirsch @yung_curmudgeon tells us all about his dumpster diving and mutual aid activities which help feed and clothe members of his community. We also get into his latest mending activities, and he shares some exciting plans.
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What about you? Have you ever been dumpster diving? Or done something similar?
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Check out the episode today! Oh, and don’t forget to subscribe/favourite/follow Check Your Thread in your fave podcast app.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #dumpsterdiving #mutualaid #mendingispolitical #mendingmatters #visiblemending #darning #darningsocks #mendedclothing #resourcerescue

How do you record project ideas? Or maybe you allow them to float around in your head, uncaptured?! For a few years now I’ve been using @trelloapp to keep a record of the fabric I own, the project ideas I have, and the progress I’ve made with WIPs. I love playing around with my boards, making notes and moving things around. But as with all my tech, I don’t use it to its full potential. I could add images instead of just words, as @shamseldinrogers has done. Check out her post on her grid showing how she uses the app for her records.
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But you know what? I also LOVE an analog notebook and pen situation. I love taking them on the train or when I’m sitting in bed and scribbling ideas. (BTW, don’t try to read my notes, even I struggle to read my horrendous handwriting!)
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My guest on this week’s podcast, Sarai Mitnick from @seamwork, is also a fan of recording ideas and uses a number of different approaches. Listen to the episode to hear her recommendations.
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Keeping notes or records of potential project ideas not only prevents you from forgetting any flashes of inspiration, but can also be a super fun activity in itself. It allows the idea to brew for a while, so you can decide if it’s really worth the investment of time, money and resources to actually sew it. It can remind you of what you already have so you don’t end up making unnecessary purchases. And ‘playing’ with your project ideas at times when you can’t actually sew can allow you to engage with your passion without spending any money.
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What about you? Do you keep records of your plans? If so, do you prefer analog or digital, or some weird combination of both like me?! What benefits or enjoyment do you get from it?
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewingproject #sewingplans #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing

Hi all! Most of us Check Your Thread Heads are regularly looking out for how we can be more sustainable at home, aren’t we? But our work places can be a slightly different matter. Of course, if we’re employees, our level of control will be different. But seeking out impactful changes to make may still possible….
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In today’s episode, the second episode with @seamwork owner, Sarai Mitnick, she tells about many of the varied changes they are implementing to make the company better for people and planet. That includes going through the challenging process of becoming B-Corp certified.
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Plus. Sarai offers up insights and ideas for making your sewing process more intentional that you can apply today.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #bcorpcertified #sewingpatterns #sewingmoresustainably #sewingintentionally #intentionalsewing #sewingsustainably

A real-life sewing event with the entire focus on sustainability? YES PLEASE!!! All too often the sewing industry treats sustainability as a box to be ticked. Regular sewing events might have a nod to the topics of waste, fibre production and so on, but rarely much else. So how cool would it be to attend an event with the important stuff front and centre?! Well if you can get yourself to London on 22nd April, you can! Check out @sewsustainablefair for more details.
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Organised by Sarah from @oliveroadlondon, I have been reliably informed that there will be a bunch of stalls, workshops and even a talk by me. I’ll be there in the afternoon sharing lessons I’ve learned from 18 months of making this podcast, plus my own formula for making clothes that are adored and worn for years.
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Entrance to the event is free, tickets available on Eventbrite.
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See you there!
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing

Do you remember your first interactions with the online sewing community? For me, the DIY scene of the 2000s was how I discovered sewing blogs which helped me fall in love with the possibilities of sewing my own clothes. Sarai Mitnick has been a major contributor to the online sewing/crafting scene since the beginning, and one of my first big influences. But what were those early days like for Sarai? What led her to start #colettepatterns and later the @seamwork community? And what did she learn along the way? Well listen to today’s episode of CYT to find out!
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In the first of two episodes featuring my conversation with Sarai, we also dig into what #slowsewing means to her, and how she uses her own podcast, #seamworkradio, to share that message.
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So tell me, who/what part of the online sewing scene had a big influence on you early on?
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewersofinstagram #sewistofinstagram #seamwork #seamworkradiopodcast #sewingpatterns #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #sewingplans #sewingproject

Happy Valentines! Whether you’re into this day or not, I’m showing that I love you awesome listeners by dropping a lovely, long episode with one of our favourite previous guests: @shamseldinrogers. You’ll need an hour for this one…
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Textile activist Shams and I had a fun and thought-provoking conversation about fabric stashes, storage and space. As always, Shams brought her insight and wisdom as we explored many of the implications of these topics as they relate to sustainability, and we compared notes as an American and a European.
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Plus! Shams talked about goals and challenges including the #whole30fabricchallenge by @pinkmimosabyjacinta and the #lastsewiststanding by @miss.taeschli. Good luck to anyone embarking on the Last Sewist Standing challenge (Shams and I both are) which starts tonight!
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And speaking of love, if you love Check Your Thread as much as we love you, there are plenty of ways to show it! Tell a sewing friend how they can find the podcast, share your favourite episode on social media, subscribe in your podcast app, leave a rating or review, or sign up to support the podcast via Patreon (link in bio). ❤️
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sustainableliving #sustainablerenovations #fabricstash #stashbusting #sewingproject

Excuse the unappealing photo, but please believe me, this is a game-changer. For me at least, but I’m guessing for others too.
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I often find that the waist elastic of tights digs in uncomfortably. This can make me bloated, particularly after lunch on days that I’m sitting a lot. I previously used to avoid wearing skirts or dresses to work because that would involve a lot of discomfort. But, no longer!
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I tried doing this when I was pregnant with my first child so I’d have something to wear, but now I do it all the time with all my tights. I carefully cut away the elastic at the top edge (cleverer people than I would then find a cool use for this but rather than discarding). I then take some fold-over-elastic (soft undies elastic) and wrap it around my waist to determine what feels comfy. I then stitch this into a loop. Finally, I pin the top edge of the tights to the wrong side/inside of the elastic, taking care to pin the tights evenly to the elastic, then stitch them together with a wide zig zag.
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The new elastic is wider than the top/cut edge of the tights, so you need to stretch the tights as you pin. You could use whatever elastic you have to hand but I would highly recommend fold over elastic. It’s soft but sturdy enough to hold the tights in place, thin enough to not create unnecessary bulk, and when used flat it is wide enough to replicate the tight’s original waist elastic.
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Hope that helps! Don’t forget to listen to this week’s episode about sewing for body changes. And if that episode includes anything that inspires or helps you, please share the episode on social media or tell a sewing friend so it can help others…
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainabilitypodcast #usewhatyouhave #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #usewhatihave #clothingalterations #sewingforrealbodies

Want to know what’s the most commented-on episode of CYT to date? It’s the Sewing for Body Changes episode (no.72)! Lots of you awesome listeners generously shared your own tactics for making clothes for their fluctuating bodies.
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It was clear that there’s more to be said on this underserved topic, and I felt an update episode was in order. So that’s what you’ve got in your podcast feeds as of now!
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The main takeaway I’d like us to get from both these episodes is that we shouldn’t punish ourselves by wearing uncomfortable clothing because our bodies changed. Of course our bodies changed, ALL BODIES CHANGE. As makers of clothing, we are in a fantastic position to accommodate those changes using the many tips, tricks and approaches we’ve crowdsourced and laid out in these episodes.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #garmentfitting #sustainablesewing #makerspodcast #handmadewardrobe

Oh how I love a sewing book! And Linnea Larsson’s (@go_recreate) ‘Restyle and Restitch for Little Ones’ is a very pretty one. Originally released in Sweden as ‘Go Recreate!, Linnea wrote this book during her maternity leave having discovered the joys of making unwanted adult clothes into sweet items for her baby.
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Linnea has a very clear and instantly recognisable visual style that expresses her creative process and transcends language. I got to have a great conversation with Linnea about her motivations and process for making her book, plus the thinking behind her design choices. You can hear it wherever you listen to podcasts, or via the player on the CYT website (link in bio).
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #makerspodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #gorecreate #upcycledclothes #upcycledclothing #refashionedclothing #sewingforkids #sewingforbaby

Ears at the ready, it’s new episode day! Linnea Larsson @go_recreate is a multidisciplinary creative from Sweden with a passion for reusing existing materials. I had a wonderful, super interesting conversation with her that you’re going to enjoy.
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An architect by day, Linnea spent the nap times during her maternity leave sewing her own unwanted garments into baby clothes. She also decided to make a book to encourage and guide others to do the same! ‘Restyle & Restitch for little ones’ comes out in English this week, and I got to talk to Linnea all about the process and motivation for writing it.
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If you enjoy this episode, please take two secs to leave a rating and even a review in your podcast app.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #gorecreate #upcycle #upcycledclothing #sewingforkids #sewingproject #sewingpatterns #sewingbook #restyleandrestitch #refashionedclothing #remadeclothing #makerspodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably

Recently I was invited back on the A Smaller Life podcast (not on the ‘gram) to talk about my favourite subject: sewing more sustainably! The resultant episode is out now, and in it I share my hot takes on how to make more sustainable fabric choices, and how to lay the foundations for a more sustainable sewing practice generally.
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In some ways, it’s a mirror of CYT episode 66, where I grilled Saskia on making more sustainable yarn choices. Both of us are well versed in one area (her in yarn craft, me in garment sewing), and as we venture into the other discipline as beginners, we want to make good choices from the very beginning.
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So find A Smaller Life podcast in your favourite podcast app, give it a listen, and let me know what you think! Maybe there’s some points you disagree with, or different advice you would have given her…
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Oh, and have a great weekend! 😘
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #knittingpodcast #makerspodcast #beginnersewing #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #asmallerlifepodcast

Hi all, this week on the podcast my conversation with Alexis Bailey of @fibrandclothstudio continues, so be sure to check it out!
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We chat about the celebration of Black pattern designers during Black History Month. Alexis also shares her approach and commitment to creating zero waste sewing patterns, and her thoughts on the responsibility sewers and designers have towards waste.
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Remember, you can find the show notes for this, and every, episode at checkyourthread.com. And whilst you’re there, why not sign up to the free monthly newsletter?!
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #fibrandclothstudio #bhmpatterndesigners #bhmpatterndesignerschallenge #zerowastesewing #zerowastesewingpattern #fcirisblouse #fczwiris #fcphotinia #photiniatopanddress #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably

Sorry for the fugly pic, but does anyone else find themselves giving these dilemmas way too much brain space? So here’s the thing: normally my family uses fabric handkerchiefs. But, because I made a massive amount of them all at the same time, they’ve all ‘died’ at the same time as well. I’ve been cutting off the edges with the polyester thread and putting the rest of the 100% cotton fabric in the compost bin. (Don’t @ me about fabric hankies and hygiene: I always put them in a hot wash with our towels and bedding and I’m not interested in debating it today.)
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But before Christmas we were all poorly and heading up north for the Christmas period so I decided to buy some tissues. BUT WHICH TISSUES?!?!
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On the left are regular ones made from wood pulp (from FSC standard forests) in a cardboard box. On the right are bamboo tissues (bamboo grows much quicker than other trees so is considered the more sustainable option in this instance) but in plastic sleeves, wrapped in more plastic?!?! And the plastic wasn’t made of compostable materials. Agh!!!! 😫
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I think, when it’s not clear what the best choice is, it can put people off from engaging in trying to make more sustainable choices. Because it IS head bending and it DOES take up mental space. And I understand that for many, that mental space is not something they’re willing to give up.
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How do you feel? What choice would you have made in this instance?
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(P.S. I chose the box on the left).
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sustainability #sustainablechoices #livingmoresustainably #reusableproducts

New episode day 🥳. I’m excited to say that this one features hand-sewing expert and pattern designer Alexis Bailey of @fibrandclothstudio.
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We hear how her multifaceted slow-sewing business, Fibr & Cloth Studio, grew from a frustration she felt whilst travelling, and how the pandemic presented her with the perfect conditions to launch. Alexis also shares how becoming a pattern designer was foisted upon her!
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My conversation with Alexis was super interesting and wide-range, so I’ve split it into two parts. The second will be coming at you next week.
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As always, the show notes including links to everything mentioned in the episode, are available on checkyourthread.com.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #fibrandclothstudio #handstitching #handsewing #handsewingclothing #sewingpatterns #patterndrafting #patterncutting #bhmpatterndesigners #fcphotinia #photiniatopanddress #fcmahogany #fcmahoganyturban #mahoganyturban #sewingkit #fibrandclothpatterns #fcagave

Oh my goodness! This week’s episode about Sewing for Body Changes has had a BIG response. Which proves my suspicion that this is an underserved topic that effects most of us.
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Please keep your comments on your personal experiences and tactics for sewing for a changing body coming. I’m going to add some updates in the intro to next week’s episode.
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Plus don’t forget to visit the show notes for this episode (found on the website checkyourthread.com) which includes a breakdown of the main suggestions I made and links to all the patterns I mentioned.
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Here’s some of the tactics and suggestions pictured here:
- adjustable buttonhole elastic, this one pictured is from @williamgee_uk.
- pinafores and dungarees (preferably without a waist seam) instead of skirts and dresses, this is the #ivypinafore pattern by @jenniferlaurenhandmade.
- dresses and jumpsuits with waist elastic, this is the #novajumpsuit by @truebias.
- skirts with elasticated waists, like the #sofiaskirt by @threadsbycaroline.
- trousers and shorts with elastic in the back, such as these the #ainatrousers pattern by @namedclothing.
- breezy, boxy tops and dresses, like this the #georgiatee by #elizabethsuzannstudio.
- tops and dresses with gathers or pleats into a yoke just under the bust, including the wildly popular #hinterlanddress pattern by @sewliberated.
- cardigans designed to be worn open, I like the look of this the #fjordcardi by @papercutpatterns.
- cardigans that wrap over and fasten with a shawl pin, this one is from @textilegarden.
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If you have any idea or approaches not mentioned in the episode, please let me know them!
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sewingplans #sewingproject

As sustainably-minded garment makers, our goal is to make items that will have a long life and see lots of use. But what about when our bodies change? Everyone experiences fluctuations in shape and size, so in this week’s episode, I explore how we can future proof our garment projects to accommodate that fact.
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Is this something that you already factor into your making plans?
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sewingproject #sewingplans #sewersofinstagram #sewistsofinstagram #handmadewardrobe #memadewardrobe

Happy weekend! Have you heard this week’s podcast episode yet featuring my former coach and now friend Kim Witten? I really hope it gives you some ideas and a useful perspective on setting your own vision and mission, whether you choose to call it a manifesto or not.
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I find Kim to be such an interesting and intelligent person, which I’m sure comes through in the episode. She recently took up garment sewing, and following her journey has been fascinating. She has so much personal insight and knowledge which she uses to help herself progress and overcome hurdles. For example, Kim often applies self coaching techniques when she feels the way her brain works is getting in her own way!
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Knowing her own learning style, Kim decided to kick start her garment making by getting 1-2-1 and small-group tuition at a local sewing school called Ministry of Craft @ministryofcraftmcr in Manchester, which she highly rates. Through attending their classes she made these amazing #pietrapants and #wiggledress (wiggle dress photo credit: Ministry of craft). I’m so excited to see what garments Kim makes next on the run up to participating in her first #memademay!
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Honestly, I’m envious of Kim’s level of self knowledge and I’d love to develop some self-coaching techniques of my own for when I’m finding things tricky. So that’s going to be one of my goals for 2023. There are certain negative thoughts and self-imposed hurdles that I come up against time and time again that make creating this podcast harder than it needs to be. Feel free to check in with me on my progress as the year unfolds!
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What about you? Aside from specific sewing goals (which I’ve been talking about this week on my @sozoblog account), have you got any plans around working smarter, or being kinder to yourself? Plus, have you worked out your personal vision yet? I’d LOVE to hear if you’re looking to share it with someone…
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(Kim is not an instagram user but gave me permission to post these photos)
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #beginnersewing #beginnersewer #beginnersewist #closetcorepatterns #selfcoaching #selfemployed #selfemployedlife #workingsmarter #handmadewardrobe

Happy New Year everyone!!! 🥳 I propose we kick things off by creating personal manifestos that will see us through 2023 and beyond!
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By defining our own personal vision, mission, strategy and tactics, never again will we need to ask ourselves, ‘What should I be doing right now?’ or ‘Is this course of action right for me?’.
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I’ve invited my friend and former coach, Kim Witten (who does not grace IG with her presence) whose work focuses on strategic expert thinking, to guide us through this incredibly beneficial process. Kim is also an experienced crafter and we discuss different mental approaches to picking up new skills, and how she applies self coaching through her journey as a beginner sewer.
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Even if the manifesto (other terms for it are available, as we discuss, if that chime with you) exercise, or this kind of self reflection, doesn’t interest you at this time, make sure you listen to this episode. Kim is an incredibly intelligent, interesting and fun person so I know you’re going to enjoy it.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #personalmanifesto #sewingmoresustainably #sewingsustainably #sustainablesewing #personalgrowth #coaching #selfcoaching

Hi all! I want to quickly pop up and wish you all a happy New Year and to thank you for all the support you have given Check Your Thread during 2022. I like to think we’ve all been on a real journey this year. I, for one, have learned so much through the conversations I had and explorations undertaken for the podcast. Thank you for joining me.
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A new episode will be dropping in a couple of days. Until then, enjoy any celebrations you’ve got planned. I hope your 2023 will be full of creativity and joy 🥳
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingpodcast #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably

Today’s episode is the last of 2022! So what’s it about? It’s a fascinating sneaky peek behind the scenes of a well known sewing institution! If there’s anyone related to the sewing community who has a strong handle on sewing trends, in all senses, it’s Kate from @thefoldline.
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The Fold Line has pivoted a number of times, but has always been a hub for learning about new pattern releases and a digest for the best and most exciting sewing-related content. In this conversation we hear about the journey The Fold Line has been on, the organisation that goes into their annual Sewing Weekender event, and how much sewing Kate is actually doing these days! Plus, Kate offers her insight on the changing role that sustainability is playing within our community.
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I’m taking a two week break from releasing new episodes, but I have HEAPS in store for early 2023. So make sure you follow/like/favourite or whatever you do in your podcast app of choice so you don’t miss any future episodes.
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #sewingsustainably #thefoldline #sewingpattern #sewingpatterns #sewingbusiness #sewingproject #sewersofinstagram #sewistsofinstagram #sewingweekender #handmadewardrobe

Thanks to everyone who has left lovely comments and messages about this week’s episode with @judywillimentross. So many of you clearly found Judy’s work and approach so inspiring. If you haven’t had a chance to listen yet, you’re in for a treat!
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In the episode I mentioned a recent, rare sighting in a UK charity shop of damaged items on sale. This is the basket I found on my local @britishheartfoundationuk shop. It was wonderful to see, but I’m wondering if this is a broader or single-store endeavour. Have any other UK residents seen this in of the other BHF stores? Or other national charity shop chains?
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When I went in there again this week, the basket was gone. I’m hoping it’s just because they needed the space for additional Christmas stock, rather because it saw little interest.
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Obviously floor space is expensive and at a premium in the UK, so I get why they need to prioritise stock that brings in the £££s. But I really hope more baskets and rails of damaged items show up as a way to reduce the amount of donations that must go to landfill, get incinerated or shipped off to become some other country’s problem.
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So please cheer me up, tell me where you’ve seen a well-stocked damaged second hand selection! UK or further afield…
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#checkyourthreadpodcast #checkyourthread #sewingmoresustainably #sustainablesewing #secondhandfashion #makedoandmend

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