Podcast
The Sewcial Hour Podcast
Hosted by Bethany McCue & Audra Chaimson · EN
A Podcast for Sewists by Sewists
Hosted by: Bethany of Craft with Bethany
Co-Hosted by: Audra of Sew Dreamy Studio
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Episode 45: The Confidence Ladder of Making
2w ago00:43:07Summary readyEpisode 45: The Confidence Ladder of MakingThis week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re diving into something every maker experiences, but don’t always have language for: confidence. 🧵✨When you first start sewing, everything feels intimidating: patterns are confusing, techniques feel overwhelming, and every project feels like a test. But over time, something shifts. You begin to trust your hands, your instincts, and your creative decisions.In this episode, we’re breaking down what we’re calling The Confidence Ladder of Making: the four stages makers move through as they grow:Imitation – following patterns and learning the basicsModification – making small changes and creative tweaksOwnership – trusting your instincts and solving problemsAuthorship – creating something entirely your ownWe’re talking about why imitation is not cheating, why so many makers stay in the modification stage (and why that’s okay), and how confidence is built through repetition, mistakes, and finished projects not talent.If you’ve ever wondered “am I doing this right?” or felt stuck in your sewing journey, this episode will help you understand where you are and what comes next.✨ Join the conversation: If someone handed you a brand new sewing pattern today… would you follow it exactly, tweak it, or completely wing it? 👀 DM us or share in our Facebook group The Sewcial Sewists and tell us the project that first gave you sewing confidence.🎧 New episodes of The Sewcial Hour Podcast drop every Tuesday on all major platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a beginner maker who needs a little encouragement.Next week: We’re chatting with Kate Hay of Quilt with Miss Kate, you won’t want to miss it! 🧵
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Episode 44: Bessie Pearl Binding Co.
4w ago00:47:53Summary readyThis week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re joined by Karen Wade, founder of Bessie Pearl Binding Co. — a company that has helped thousands of quilters finally enjoy the finishing step with beautifully made, ready-to-use bias binding.If binding is the part of quilting you dread (👀 you’re not alone), this episode is for you.Karen shares how Bessie Pearl was born out of a very real sewing room frustration and how that one problem turned into a thriving product-based business. With a background in retail and over a decade of growth, she gives us an inside look at what it actually takes to build a business in the sewing world — and what most people get wrong about it.In this episode, we talk about:The moment Karen realized there had to be a better way to finish quiltsWhy bias binding feels so intimidating for so many quiltersHow Bessie Pearl evolved from an idea into a full product lineThe realities of running a sewing-based product businessHow Karen selects fabrics and designs binding that works across quilt stylesTips to make binding feel less overwhelming (and maybe even enjoyable!)Plus, we get to know Karen a little more through rapid-fire questions, hear what she’s loving right now, and chat about what’s next for Bessie Pearl — including a fun Quilt Top Maxi Skirt Sew-Along coming this summer 👗🧵Whether you love binding, avoid it at all costs, or are somewhere in between, this conversation will give you a whole new perspective on the final step of quilting.✨ Connect with Karen & Bessie Pearl:Follow along on Instagram: @bessiepearlbindingcoExplore ready-made binding options, tutorials, and more to simplify your quilt finishes.🎧 New episodes of The Sewcial Hour Podcast drop every other Tuesday on all major platforms. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a quilter who really needs help with their binding 😉Next week: We’re talking about The Confidence Ladder of Making — how to build skills, trust yourself, and grow as a maker.
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Episode 43: The Economics of Handmade
Apr 700:34:51Summary readyThis week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re talking about a topic that can get uncomfortable real fast… money. 💸✂️Why does fabric feel so expensive? Why do makers consistently underprice their work? And what are we actually paying for when we choose handmade over mass-produced?In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the true cost of creating - from materials and tools to the often-overlooked value of time, skill, and experience. Because spoiler: that “quick afternoon project” didn’t just take an afternoon… it took years to be able to make it that quickly.We’re diving into:What really goes into the cost of a handmade itemWhy time is the most undervalued part of sewingA reality check on what your projects would cost if you paid yourself fairlyWhy handmade will never (and should never) compete with fast fashion pricingThe invisible labor behind every finished pieceWhy makers fall into the trap of underpricing their workThe difference between hobby pricing and business pricingWe also get honest about the emotional side of pricing — how it’s tied to identity, confidence, and the fear that no one will buy - and why underpricing doesn’t make you generous… it makes you unsustainable.Whether you’re a hobbyist, a side hustler, or running a full creative business, this episode will challenge how you think about the value of your work and help you decide what kind of maker you want to be.✨ Join the conversation: DM us what you think your last project really cost (including your time 👀), and share one thing you’re going to stop underpricing this year.🎧 New episodes of The Sewcial Hour Podcast drop every Tuesday on all major platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a maker who needs permission to charge more.Next week: We’re chatting with Karen Wade of Bessie Pearl - you won’t want to miss it! 🧵
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Episode 42: Foundation Paper Piecing with Julius Handmade
Mar 2400:55:34Summary readyThis week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re joined by quilt designer and maker Julius Rempe-Night of Julius Handmade to talk all things Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) — one of the most striking and precise techniques in modern quilting.Known for his bold geometric designs, fearless color palettes, and thoughtful approach to creativity, Julius shares how he discovered FPP, why he fell in love with the technique, and how it became the foundation of his pattern design work. With over eight years of experience, he’s helping quilters of all levels see that FPP isn’t just about precision — it’s about unlocking new creative possibilities.In this episode we chat about:How Julius got started with quilting and designWhy foundation paper piecing isn’t as intimidating as it seemsHis pattern design process and the tools he usesThe role color plays in creating bold quiltsThe mindset shift students experience when learning FPPWhy he shares free patterns and a yearly Block of the MonthJulius also shares what he’s currently working on, his favorite sewing tools, and details about his Foundation Paper Piecing design classes for makers who want to start creating their own patterns.✨ Special for Sewcial Hour listeners:Use code SEWCIALHOUR at checkout on the Julius Handmade Etsy shop for 20% off all patterns through the end of April. You can access the shop through his website below.Connect with Julius:Website: www.juliushandmade.comInstagram: @juliushandmadeYouTube: Julius HandmadeWe’d love to see your projects! If you try foundation paper piecing or one of Julius’s patterns, share your wins in our Facebook group The Sewcial Sewists.🎧 New episodes of The Sewcial Hour Podcast drop every Tuesday on all major podcast platforms.Next week: We’re diving into a topic every maker eventually faces — The Economics of Handmade. 💸🧵
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Episode 41: QuiltCon Recap
Mar 1000:41:58Summary readyIn this week’s episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re recapping all things QuiltCon! From the quilts that completely stopped us in our tracks to the trends we saw everywhere, we’re breaking down our biggest takeaways from this year’s show. We’re talking bold color palettes, modern design moments, the vendors that had everyone buzzing, and the inspiration overload that only QuiltCon can deliver.We’re also sharing:Our favorite quilts and why they stood outCreative techniques we’re dying to tryBehind-the-scenes moments and funny storiesWhat surprised us most about the eventHow QuiltCon reflects where the modern quilting movement is headedWhether you attended in person, followed along on social media, or are just QuiltCon-curious, this episode will make you feel like you were right there with us.QuiltCon always leaves us feeling inspired, slightly overwhelmed (in the best way), and ready to start five new projects immediately — and we’re bringing you along for the ride.✨ Join the conversation!Come share your favorite QuiltCon moments in our Facebook group, The Sewcial Sewists, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for photos, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content.🎧 New episodes drop every Tuesday — make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss an episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast!
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Episode 40: Projector Sewing
Feb 2400:49:53Summary readyHave you ever bought a PDF pattern… and then procrastinated for days because you didn’t want to print, tape, and cut it out?In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re diving into the world of projector sewing — the tool that has completely changed how Bethany sews and the one Audra is currently setting up (with a healthy mix of excitement and intimidation).If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of using a projector for sewing, this episode is for you. We’re breaking it all down in a beginner-friendly way and walking you through exactly what you need to know to get started.We cover:What projector sewing actually is and why sewists love itHow it saves time, money, paper, and frustrationThe differences between standard throw, short throw, and ultra short throw projectorsHow throw ratio affects your setupMounting options and creating a stable cutting spaceCalibration (and why it’s way less scary than it sounds)How to convert regular PDF patterns into projector files using the free software PDF StitcherThe best resources for support, including the Projectors for Sewing Facebook group and projectorsewing.comWe also talk about the many ways you can use a projector beyond garment sewing — bags, quilt templates, appliqué, crafts, vinyl, leather, and so much more.Our biggest takeaway?Don’t wait.So many sewists buy a projector and let it sit in the box because the setup feels overwhelming. But once it’s mounted and calibrated, it becomes second nature — and you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.Plus, we’re sharing a quick Spool School tip, what we’re currently working on, and some exciting updates (including QuiltCon!).If you’ve been thinking about getting a projector… this is your sign. 🧵✨🎧 Subscribe to The Sewcial Hour Podcast⭐ Leave us a review💬 Share your projector setup or questions on Instagram or inside The Sewcial Sewists Facebook groupLet’s remove friction and get back to sewing.
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Episode 39: Love Your Sewing Space
Feb 1000:50:54Summary readyWith Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we’re talking about a relationship that might need a little extra love — your sewing room.In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Audra and Bethany dive into how your sewing space impacts your creativity, motivation, and joy. After last week’s conversation about WIPs and UFOs, we’re taking things one step further and talking about how to create a sewing space that supports you instead of stressing you out.Because if your sewing room feels chaotic, cluttered, or guilt-inducing, it’s really hard to feel inspired to create. Your sewing space shouldn’t be a dumping ground, a storage unit, or a shame spiral — it should be a place you want to be.In this episode, we cover:Why your sewing environment sets the tone for your creativityOrganization systems that actually work for real-life sewistsHow to purge, donate, and let go of stash guiltDecorating your space with your makes and celebrating your workTools, lighting, and sensory details that make sewing feel joyfulSimple ways to keep your space tidy without turning it into a full-time jobWe also share what we’re currently working on, what we’re loving lately, and encourage you to give your sewing space a little refresh — even if it’s just one small change.✨ This Valentine’s Day reminder: you deserve to love the space where you create.🎧 Up next: Next episode, we’re talking all about Projector Sewing.💬 Join the conversation:Subscribe to The Sewcial Hour PodcastLeave a reviewShare photos of your sewing space glow-up on Instagram or in our Facebook group, The Sewcial SewistsYour sewing room doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to work for you. 🧵💕
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Episode 38: WIPs & UFOs
Jan 2700:46:01Summary readyEvery sewist has them: Works in Progress and UnFinished Objects lurking in bins, closets, and the corners of our sewing rooms… quietly judging us.In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Audra and Bethany are talking about all things WIPs & UFOs and why we get stuck, how unfinished projects can weigh on us emotionally, and how to decide what’s actually worth finishing (and what’s okay to let go).We’re breaking down:Why WIPs happen (and why they’re not a personal failure)The difference between projects that deserve patience and projects that deserve permission to be releasedHow sunk cost guilt keeps us stuckSmart ways to repurpose unfinished projects instead of forcing yourself to suffer through themSimple strategies to actually finish more projects without turning sewing into a guilt factoryWe also talk honestly about the emotional weight unfinished projects carry, how they mess with our confidence, and why your sewing space should never feel like a guilt museum.Plus, we’re spotlighting Cara of The Little Golden Fox and HollyAnne Knight of String & Story, sharing what we’re loving lately, and giving you one simple piece of homework that could change how you feel every time you walk into your sewing room.✨ Homework: Pick one project. Either finish it or officially release it. No more emotional support UFOs.🎧 What’s next? Next episode, we’re taking this conversation even further with “Love Your Sewing Room” - all about creating a sewing space that sparks joy, creativity, and motivation.💬 Join the conversation:Subscribe to The Sewcial Hour PodcastLeave us a reviewShare your 2026 sewing goals or word-of-the-year on Instagram or inside our Facebook group, The Sewcial Sewists: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesewcialsewistsSewing is supposed to be joyful and it starts with giving yourself permission to move forward. 🧵✨
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Episode 37: The Lies We Tell Ourselves
Jan 1300:57:06Summary readyWhat does it actually mean to be a “real” sewist — and who gets to decide?In this episode of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Audra and Bethany unpack the quiet, sneaky stories that keep sewists stuck: the lies we tell ourselves about needing better tools, needing to be perfect, needing to look a certain way, or needing permission before we begin.We talk about where the idea of the “real sewist” even came from, how social media has reshaped confidence and comparison in the sewing world, and why so many of us end up waiting instead of making — even when we already have everything we need.From the belief that you need a fancier machine before you can improve, to the fear that you can’t sell or share your work unless it’s flawless, this conversation is about naming the mental roadblocks that hold us back and gently pulling them apart.If you’ve ever thought:• “I’ll start once I upgrade my tools.”• “I’m not good enough yet.”• “I can’t sell unless I’m perfect.”• “Other people are real sewists… I’m just pretending.”…this episode is for you.We’re inviting you to question those rules, rewrite the narrative, and reconnect with your creativity on your own terms — not the algorithm’s, not the industry’s, and not the imaginary standard you never agreed to.🪡 Join the conversation:DM us or comment and tell us — When did you first feel like a “real” sewist? Or what made you question if you were?Follow & connect with us:Instagram & Facebook: @TheSewcialHourPodcastJoin our Facebook group: The Sewcial SewistsSubscribe on YouTube and your favorite podcast app so you never miss a Tuesday episode!
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Episode 36: New Year, New Sewing Goals
Dec 3000:57:07Summary readyAs we wrap up 2025, we’re slowing down, reflecting, and looking ahead with intention. In this final episode of the year, Audra and Bethany dive into how to set sewing (and life) goals for 2026 that actually feel good - not overwhelming, not guilt-filled, and not destined to be abandoned by February.We start with a little reflection on the moments from 2025 that made us proud (including big trips, big leaps, and a whole lot of growth), then walk you through simple, practical ways to shape goals that fit your real life.We talk about:How to identify your why before you set any goalsThe three types of goals every sewist should consider: skill, project, and system goalsHow to use the “Start, Stop, Continue” method to reset your habitsWhy it’s okay (and healthy!) to let your goals evolve as you doPlanning tools and micro-systems that support your creativity instead of stressing you outThe power of tiny actions like 15 minutes of sewing, one seam a day, or a monthly resetWe also share our own words of the year and sewing goals for 2026 - from streamlined focus to exciting new growth - and wrap things up with a little “you love to see it” moment and a peek at what’s coming next.Whether you’re a hardcore planner or someone who usually avoids resolutions altogether, this episode is here to help you create a sewing year that feels supportive, joyful, and aligned with the life you actually live.Join us as we close out 2025 and stitch our way into a creative, intentional 2026.✨ Next Week: The Lies We Tell Ourselves About Being a ‘Real’ Sewist💬 Join the Conversation: Share your favorite takeaways and connect with other sewists in our Facebook group, The Sewcial Sewists: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesewcialsewists ✔️ Subscribe to The Sewcial Hour ✔️ Leave a review if you enjoyed today’s episode ✔️ Share your favorite Black Friday sewing tips with the community on IG or in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group
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