In this Season One bonus episode, Gertie and Andrea chat all about Charm's annual Halloween Extravaganza. It's our first video episode, so check out the video here!Links & ImagesCharm Patterns mentioned include:The I Married a Witch Veronica Lake dressThe Lorelei GownThe Dolly Bell BottomsThe Vampira GownThe Morticia Gown (using scuba knit)The Spiderweb Apron that went viralThe Leather Bat CollarThe epic Marilyn Monroe showgirl lookSee more of Charm's past Halloween content hereI Married a Witch movie with Veronica Lake (1942)More about Veronica Lake's personality and lifeDolly Parton's Behind the Seams book of costumesFor more vintage-inspired sewing patterns in sizes 2-34 (with A-H bust cups), check out us out at Charm Patterns.
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1:05:20
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1:05:20
Your Questions Answered - part 2
In this lively episode of Talk Gertie to Me, we dive into the personal stories behind Gertie's tattoos, body image reflections, and tips for setting up the perfect sewing space. Gertie and Andrea discuss the evolution of their body art, the challenges of body changes, and the importance of creating a functional and inspiring sewing room. With a mix of humor and vulnerability, they also share their vintage inspirations and practical sewing advice, making this a delightful and informative listen for fans of vintage fashion and creative sewing.Links & ImagesCharm Patterns mentioned include:Gertie Sews Jiffy DressesElizabeth CaftanReddit Tattoo Cover UpGrey GardensWilliam Morris WallpaperLiberty of London - Lawn Strawberry ThiefBrabantia ironing boardFor more vintage-inspired sewing patterns in sizes 2-34 (with A-H bust cups), check out us out at Charm Patterns.
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47:08
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47:08
Your Questions Answered - part 1
In this 2-part episode of 'Talk Gertie to Me,' hosts Gretchen (Gertie) and Andrea begin to wrap up Season 1 with a lively reflection on vintage glamor sewing, creative processes, and the joys and struggles of monetizing a beloved hobby. Engaging with listener questions, they dive into the realities of running a pattern-making business, from the financial and logistical challenges to the emotional rollercoaster of creative work. They also discuss the careful planning required for their themes and patterns on Patreon, tease upcoming projects, and share personal insights on maintaining inspiration and creative flow amidst deadlines and business demands.Links & ImagesCharm Patterns mentioned include:Lamour DressLucille TrousersLoretta ShortsBetty DressMiss Yvonne’s iconic dress on Gertie’s Blog!Sophia Loren in Christian Dior dressDesigner Charles James’s Clover Gown and another!For more vintage-inspired sewing patterns in sizes 2-34 (with A-H bust cups), check out us out at Charm Patterns.
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48:24
Why We’ll Always Love Broadway (and Costumes!)
Gretchen and Andrea LOVE Broadway! Learn about their separate backgrounds in theatre, the shows they're loving now, and how those shows have inspired patterns at Charm. Plus, they drop tips on how to see theatre in NYC on a budget!Links & ImagesCharm Patterns mentioned include:The Starlet GownThe /Broadway subreddit (with discount tix)RENT (the musical from the 1990s)The 2025 Tony Award nominees and winnersSome Like It Hot musicalFloyd Collins with Jeremy JordanDeath Becomes Her musicalOh, Mary! playJoin the Theatre Development Fund (TDF) for discounted ticketsUse the Theatr app for discounted last-minute ticketsA View From My Seat isn't just for theatre! Use it for sports venues and concerts, too.For more vintage-inspired sewing patterns in sizes 2-34 (with A-H bust cups), check out us out at Charm Patterns.
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44:52
RIP Joann. Where do we buy fabrics now???
The episode where we diss on JOANN Fabrics (RIP) and share our favorite places and tips for shopping for fabric & notions online. The Charm Studio is in a very small city - we have to drive at least 90 minutes to touch fancy fabrics, too!Links & ImagesCharm Patterns & books mentioned include:The Betty DressGertie's Charmed Sewing Studio bookAndrea's crouton recipe comes from The Complete Vegetarian Cookbook by America's Test KitchenCome visit the NY Garment District - do you have nearby turkey sandwich recommendations?Maybe Happy Ending musical on BroadwayOur favorite thread is Mettler Metrosene CorsetMaking.com is where we buy spiral steel boning & corsetry supplies and Wawak.com is where we buy lots of notionsSalmon Gros de Londre fabric with rose dotsThe obscenely expensive black lace used on Gretchen's favorite Charm make to date (which will be revealed on the cover of the Fall issue of Vintage by Gertie magazine, coming out Sept 15)Fabric for Fashion swatch book with the pink coverSilkbaron.com's Lesbian Sunset and other Pride fabricsThe inexpensive rayon challis we use for drapey muslinsThe inexpensive ITY jersey we use for jersey knit muslins (and knit linings)For more vintage-inspired sewing patterns in sizes 2-34 (with A-H bust cups), check out us out at Charm Patterns.
Step into the wildly creative, deeply personal world of Charm Patterns with founder Gretchen “Gertie” Hirsch as she stitches together vintage glamour, pop culture obsessions, body positivity, and unapologetic queerness. From behind-the-scenes design inspo like “Slutty Italian Summer” to candid conversations on beauty, Broadway, and the messiness of creative life, this podcast is part sewing salon, part slumber party, and always ridiculously fun.