The Sewing Social

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David Olaniyi joins The Sewing Social Podcast to share the story behind his journey from dance to fashion and tailoring, and how his creative background has shaped the way he designs today.
David talks openly about his experience on Dress the Nation with Marks & Spencer, the challenges of putting his tailoring skills to the test, and what it takes to build a career in the fashion industry.
Known for blending streetwear with traditional tailoring, David also takes us behind the scenes of his creative process - from developing ideas and finding his signature style to navigating the realities of working as a tailor and designer.
In this episode, we explore tailoring, menswear, and fashion design, as David shares what he’s learned so far and where he wants to take his craft next.

Key Topics: 

David's transition from dance to tailoring
His experience on Dress the Nation and winning the competition
The concept of structured streetwear blending tailoring and street style
The process of designing and creating a collection for Marks and Spencer's
Inspiration from Japanese fashion and travel influences
The importance of technical skills like tailoring in streetwear design
Future plans including moving to Japan for 3 months and learning new techniques
The role of confidence and spontaneity in creative success

Follow me: 
Website: http://www.thedalythreadstudio - website will soon be live! 
I will be teaching anyone who wants to learn how to sew in the Nottingham area and beyond! 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details:
Website: https://www.davidolaniyi.co.uk
Instagram: @bydavidolaniyi
Tiktok: @bydavidolaniyi

Bespoke Tailoring Course - Newham College:
https://newham.ac.uk/course/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/bespoke-tailoring-level-1-adult/

Kapital - Pillow Bomber Jacket: 
https://www.kapital.jp/
Instagram: @kapitalglobal

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and David’s background in dance and fashion
01:01 How David’s dance career led to an interest in tailoring
02:27 Learning to sew and construct garments from wardrobe staff
04:06 Transition from dance to professional tailoring and fashion
05:34 Winning Dress the Nation and the application process
10:37 The intense process of TV casting and experience on the show
11:46 Lessons learned from winning the competition
13:50 Favorite pieces from the show and designing for the final collection
16:51 Post-show career, working at Marks and Spencer’s, and design philosophy
28:43 Inspiration sources including travel and Japanese fashion
30:01 Deconstructing a Japanese jacket and future plans
32:23 Game of this or that: style preferences and techniques
34:26 Where to find David online and upcoming projects

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Jane Harbison, founder of Jane Harbison Design, to explore her inspiring journey into the world of dressmaking, sewing pattern design and creative entrepreneurship. 
Jane shares how she followed her passion for sewing, identified a gap in the market for men's and boys' sewing patterns, and built a business around helping more people enjoy making their own clothes.
We chat about the importance of the creative process, why sewing is about so much more than the finished garment, and how handmade projects can become meaningful gifts that tell a story. 
Jane also shares her thoughts on designing accessible sewing patterns, nurturing creativity and building confidence through making.
Whether you're interested in dressmaking, sewing patterns for men and boys, handmade gifts, or you're dreaming of turning your creative hobby into a business, this episode is full of inspiration, practical advice and thoughtful conversation.

In this episode, we discuss:
Jane's journey from accounting to sewing pattern designer.
Creating sewing patterns for men and boys.
Finding gaps in the sewing pattern market.
The joy of the creative process and handmade sewing.
Building a creative business around your passion.
Why handmade garments and gifts tell a unique story.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: Jane Harbison Design - https://janeharbison.com.au/ 
Instagram: @JaneHarbisonDesign 
Pinterest: Jane Harbison Design - https://au.pinterest.com/janeharbison/
Skool: The Pocket Square Club - https://www.skool.com/the-pocket-square-club-3733/about?sc=1
YouTube: Jane Harbison Design - https://www.youtube.com/@janeharbisondesignau
Creative Process document: 
https://janeharbison.com.au/blogs/puckerup-sewing-blog/how-to-give-gifts-that-speak-their-love-languages

Other Information: 
Destasher Summer Destash event - https://www.destasher.co.uk/blog/summer-stash-reset

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What does it take to create beautifully fitting garments? 
In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Helen Shine, an expert pattern cutter whose impressive career has seen her work with renowned fashion brands including Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen and many more.
Helen shares her journey from the world of high-end fashion to running her own pattern cutting workshops, sewing retreats and dressmaking courses in Cornwall.
We explore the art of pattern cutting, why achieving a great fit is about so much more than standard sizing, and how understanding garment construction can transform your sewing.
We also discuss sustainable fashion, creating clothes that are made to last, and Helen's specialist work designing bespoke wedding dress patterns, helping brides bring their dream gowns to life.
Whether you're passionate about dressmaking, sewing your own clothes, pattern cutting or improving the fit of your handmade wardrobe, this episode is packed with inspiration, expert advice and practical insights.

In this episode, we discuss:
Helen's career working with leading fashion brands, including Vivienne Westwood and Karen Millen.
The fundamentals of pattern cutting and garment construction.
Why fit is the key to creating clothes you'll love to wear.
Sustainable fashion and making garments that last.
Pattern cutting workshops and sewing retreats in Cornwall.
Designing bespoke wedding dress patterns and bridal wear.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: www.dotncross.com
Instagram: @dot.n.cross
Links: 
Dot n Cross Pattern Cutting Retreats in Cornwall: https://dotncross.com/retreats - I forgot to mention that the retreat location is a 15 minutes taxi journey from Penzance train station, which has direct links to many of the major cities.
1-1 Wedding dress workshop: https://dotncross.com/make-your-own-wedding-dress-class
Group sewing and pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/group-sewing-classes-cornwall
1-1 pattern cutting workshops: https://dotncross.com/pattern-cutting-workshops
Link to Vogue article about the Cate Blanchett dress, designed by Mary Katrantzou: https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/cate-blanchetts-mary-katrantzou-cannes-dress

Chapters: 
00:10 Helen Shine: A Journey into Pattern Cutting
04:48 Education and Early Career in Fashion
10:07 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design
10:18 Transitioning from Fashion to Teaching
15:00 Establishing Dot and Cross: Workshops and Community
17:51 Exploring Unique Retreats in Cornwall
23:20 In-Depth Wedding Dress Pattern Cutting Classes
27:42 The Impact of Fast Fashion on Society
31:57 The Dress for Cate Blanchett
34:34 Engineering Prints in Fashion
35:50 The Complexity of High-End Fashion Design
36:04 Future Plans and Exciting Developments
41:31 Join my Substack

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What does it take to grow a family fabric business that has stood the test of time?
In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics to chat about her family's remarkable 26-year journey in the fabric industry. 
From running a traditional fabric shop to embracing the world of online retail, Kayleigh shares how the business has evolved while staying true to its passion for quality fabrics and exceptional customer service.
We also discuss the importance of authenticity on social media, the incredible community that surrounds sewing, and why encouraging new sewists is so important to her. 
Along the way, Kayleigh shares the touching story behind her work creating tiny stockings for babies in neonatal units, and how sewing can be a powerful way to bring comfort and connection.
Whether you're looking for tips on choosing dressmaking fabrics, curious about the story behind one of the UK's best-loved fabric shops, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring conversations about creativity, community and sewing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

In this episode, we discuss:
The story behind 1st For Fabrics and its 26-year family history.
How the fabric industry has changed over the years.
Choosing the right dressmaking fabrics with confidence.
Building an authentic presence on social media.
Supporting new sewists and growing the sewing community.
Kayleigh's inspiring neonatal stocking project.
Creativity, community and the joy of sewing.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: www.1stforfabrics.co.uk
Instagram: @1stforfabrics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh and First of Fabrics
02:13 The origins of the family business in the North East
04:23 Adapting to market changes and online sales
06:00 Advice for first-time sewists and beginners
11:52 The story behind bag kits and limited fabrics
15:01 Kayleigh's sewing journey and personal story
19:53 Charitable sewing: neonatal stockings for charity
22:05 Social media tips for small businesses
24:00 Upcoming plans and quick fire questions

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In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Sarah Laws, founder of My Handmade Wardrobe Patterns, pattern designer, sewing educator and passionate advocate for helping people create clothes they truly love to wear.
Sarah takes us back to where it all began, sharing how learning to sew as a child sparked a lifelong passion for dressmaking and ultimately led her to design sewing patterns that empower makers of all abilities. 
We chat about the journey from hobby to career, the realities of running a creative business, and the joy of helping others discover the confidence that comes from making their own clothes.
Together, we explore one of the biggest challenges many garment sewists face -getting the right fit. Sarah shares practical advice on understanding your body, making pattern adjustments with confidence and why achieving a great fit has far more to do with understanding proportions than chasing a dress size. It's an encouraging conversation that reminds us sewing is about creating clothes to fit our bodies, not changing our bodies to fit our clothes.
We also discuss the importance of body positivity within the sewing community and how making your own wardrobe can transform the way you think about clothing, style and self-confidence. 
Sarah shares why she believes sewing is such an empowering skill and how it encourages us to celebrate our individuality rather than compare ourselves to unrealistic standards.
Community is another thread running through our conversation. From the hugely popular Crafty Sewing Camp to the Weekend Sewing Club, Sarah explains why creating welcoming spaces for sewists to learn, connect and be inspired has become such an important part of her work. 
Whether you're new to garment sewing, looking to improve your pattern fitting skills, or searching for inspiration to build a handmade wardrobe that reflects your personal style, this episode is packed with practical advice, thoughtful conversation and plenty of encouragement.

In this episode, we discuss:
Sarah's journey from childhood sewing enthusiast to professional pattern designer.
The story behind My Handmade Wardrobe Patterns.
Tips for improving garment fit and building confidence with sewing patterns.
Why body positivity and inclusive sewing matter.
How making your own clothes can transform your confidence.
The value of sewing communities, including Crafty Sewing Camp and the Weekend Sewing Club.
Practical advice for anyone looking to grow their sewing skills and enjoy the creative process.

Follow me: 
Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod
                     @thedalythread
Tiktok: thesewingsocialpod
If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please 
Tip me on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod
Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email:
thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com

*Join my Substack where we continue the conversations: 
The Sewing Social: Off The Mic - https://substack.com/@thesewingsocial

Affiliate Links:
Thready Set Go - https://threadysetgo.com
     Discount code for your first month free - SEWINGSOCIALPOD
Sew And Stow - https://www.sewandstow.co.uk/
     Discount code for £10 off your board - SEWINGSOCIALPOD

Guest Details: 
Website: https://www.myhandmadewardrobepatterns.com/
Instagram: @mhwpatterns
The next pattern making Retreat: - September (3 spaces left): https://www.myhandmadewardrobepatterns.com/shop/p/retreat-january2026-5zh6j-k39xg
Weekend Sewing Club: https://www.myhandmadewardrobepatterns.com/weekend-sewing-club-sales
Crafty Events: https://www.craftyeventsuk.co.uk/

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Family Influence to Fashion Design
02:53 Education and Experience: The Foundation of a Fashion Career
06:17 The Birth of a Business: Crafty So and So
07:41 Empowering Women Through Sewing: The Transition to Teaching
13:04 Creating Patterns for Real Bodies: My Handmade Wardrobe
20:01 Celebrating Change: Designing for the Evolving Female Body
23:16 The Weekend Sewing Club: A New Initiative
27:49 Pattern Making and Fitting: Common Themes
31:25 Crafty Sewing Camp: A Joyful Gathering
34:55 The Dressmakers Ball: Celebrating Creativity
37:54 Future Plans: Intentional Wardrobe Programme
48:22 Substack