Reclaiming Our Sewjo – Episode 19 of the Sewing Class Podcast
This month’s episode of the Sewing Class Podcast was all about finding our sewjo, that elusive burst of creative energy and enthusiasm that sometimes slips away when life takes over.
While we usually stay focused on reviewing patterns or sewing with a specific goal in mind, this month was a bit different. We gave ourselves permission to go a little rogue. Just sewing for the fun of it and on a bit of a creative whim. It felt a little naughty!! I decided to tackle a few class projects for the Sewing Gem Studio classes, whilst also making something fun for my daughter.
My 11-year-old daughter had asked me for a new skirt that she could wear with tights and boots for the winter. We both agreed that a Gracie Steel Flirt Skirt would be perfect. I made the a short, pleated version in a soft, checked wool. I had to tweak the sizing a bit to fit her properly, but after a bit of fitting (and some very helpful feedback from the fashionista herself), she was thrilled with the result.
There’s something really special about sewing for family, especially when they’re part of the process. Apparently, I might (she’s about 80% sure) be allowed to make her Grade 6 formal dress. It’s not a super fancy event, but definitely an opportunity to whip up something a little extra special. Fingers crossed!
Sewing Gem Studio Launch ✂️
We’ve also been busy behind the scenes launching our brand-new Sewing Gem Studio classes! These in-person workshops are designed to help beginner and intermediate sewists grow their skills in a supportive, creative environment.
Here are some of the projects we’ve been exploring in the studio so far:
The Pocket Skirt by Peppermint Magazine in collaboration with Paper Theory Patterns, a comfy, wearable staple with big pockets. Perfect in a relaxed linen.
The Mule Tote from KATM – stylish, practical, and a great introduction to structured sewing as well as a few different seam finishes.
The Tea Party Dress from Tadah Patterns – an adorable option for the little ones in your life. It’s been a staple in our house for many years.
- Cosmetic bags and simple totes perfect starter projects for our beginner classes that build confidence while covering the basics.
The Tadah! Tea Party Dress, Mule Tote and Railroad Tote Bag
Me modelling the Peppermint Magazine Pocket Skirt
While none of these projects were especially big on their own, they added up to a pretty full sewing plate. It was great to get myself stuck into thinking about The Sewing Gem Studios classes and what we’d be creating.
In the future we’d love to bring more advanced classes, including making some of the podcast patterns. If you’re local and interested in sewing lessons head to our website here.
Kylie’s Sewjo Moment 🌟
And then there's Kylie, who absolutely brought it with her stunning Damsel Dress, a Roberts Wood pattern featuring an elasticated bodice and big bows. Not only was the construction beautiful, but the colour she chose was awesome. I definitely felt a little drab standing next to her in our photos! Head over to Kylie’s blog to find out more about the process of sewing this dress.
Check out Episode 19 of our podcast on platforms like Spotify , Apple Podcasts , Audible , and Google Podcasts for all the details.
Happy sewing, everyone! 🎉✂️🧵