Threads Magazine Podcast: "Sewing With Threads"
Episode 85: Amsterdam Tour Recap, London Game Plan
Release Date: January 3, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 85 of the Threads Magazine Podcast: "Sewing With Threads," hosts Jeanine Clagg and Carol Frase delve into an engaging discussion about their recent Netherlands tour and unveil exciting plans for an upcoming London tour in May 2025. This episode is a treasure trove for sewing enthusiasts, offering insights into sewing workshops, fabric explorations, and the camaraderie that binds the sewing community.

Recap of the Amsterdam Tour

Overview of the Tour Experience

Jeanine Clagg initiates the conversation by expressing enthusiasm about Carol Frase's recent tour to the Netherlands in October 2024. Carol reflects on the enriching experience of leading the first-ever Threads-organized tour, emphasizing the joy of connecting with 18 passionate sewing enthusiasts.
Carol Frase [01:25]:
"There were 18 of them and they were incredible... being around 18 people all day who love fabric shopping, liked fashion, were just creative souls... really kind of filled my tank a little bit."

Workshop with Saskia Torbella

A significant highlight of the tour was a three-day workshop with luxury designer Saskia Torbella at the Dutch Couture Academy in Duisburg. Carol describes the charming setting of Saskia's Jugendstil-inspired studio and the hands-on activities that fostered creativity among participants.
Carol Frase [03:08]:
"Everybody had their little station set up with a little half scale mannequin and a bunch of materials and tools to work with... it was really fun."

The workshop featured exercises such as draping a moulage bodice, creating lace collages from different types of lace, and crafting silk flowers. Despite finding the silk flower exercise challenging, Carol appreciated the opportunity to explore new techniques.
Carol Frase [05:49]:
"It was really, really fun to see... it's sort of a complete redesign that gives you this really amazing look."

Visits to Nitwit Staples

The tour also included a visit to Nitwit Staples, a sustainable farm outside Amsterdam that raises goats for mohair and sheep for wool. Carol underscores the importance of understanding the entire garment-making process, from animal to finished product, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable fashion.
Carol Frase [06:41]:
"It really helps you appreciate what you have... why clothes cost what they cost, if they're nice ones."

Chocolate Making at Chocolate Makers

Participants enjoyed a unique experience at Chocolate Makers in Amsterdam, where they witnessed bean-to-bar chocolate production. The emphasis on sustainability was evident as the chocolates were sourced through fair trade and produced using solar power.
Carol Frase [09:17]:
"They use no fossil fuels at all to transport their beans... it is really, really sustainable and interesting and delicious."

Textile Museum in Tilburg

A visit to the Textile Museum in Tilburg provided insights into both historical and contemporary textile techniques. Participants explored old textile-making machines and modern weaving and knitting innovations, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
Carol Frase [09:34]:
"We got to see some of the really new things that they're doing. Beautiful weaving and interesting types of knitting."

Shopping Highlights

The tour featured visits to notable fabric and yarn shops, including Stephen and Penelope and Haribos in Eindhoven. Meeting American expat and knitwear designer Stephen West was a memorable moment, especially when a participant showcased a shawl she knitted from his design.
Carol Frase [11:35]:
"One of our group had knitted a beautiful shawl from one of his designs and she was wearing it that day to show him."

Group Dynamics and Social Activities

Carol highlights the social aspect of the tour, where participants bonded over shared interests. Evening gatherings allowed members to share their purchases and sewing projects, fostering a supportive community atmosphere.
Carol Frase [16:21]:
"It was so much fun to see, you know, sort of learn people's personality even more based on what they purchased and what they planned to do with it."

Preview of Upcoming London Tour

Tour Itinerary and Dates

Building on the success of the Amsterdam tour, Threads Magazine is organizing a London tour from May 3rd to May 10th, 2025. Carol Frase provides an overview of the itinerary, which includes workshops, guided tours, and exclusive visits to renowned sewing and fabric establishments.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour is priced at $8,500 per person (double occupancy) and $9,200 per person (single occupancy). This cost covers accommodation in four-star central London hotels, transportation via coach and public transit, and access to specialized workshops and tours.
Carol Frase [13:36]:
"We'll be staying in nice central hotels in London... you're going to have to do a bunch of walking. So I would say always be prepared to do a couple miles or three miles a day of walking and wear comfortable shoes."

Workshops and Activities

One of the standout features of the London tour is a two-day hands-on workshop with luxury glovemaker Rena O. Participants will learn to craft custom gloves tailored to their measurements, a rare opportunity in luxury leatherware.
Carol Frase [15:13]:
"You will leave hopefully with at least one glove finished and then the other one you will make on your own."

Additionally, the tour includes an embroidery workshop at Hand and Lock, a prestigious studio known for its work with the British Royal Family. Participants will receive a guided tour and partake in an embroidery class, gaining insights into high-end embroidery techniques.
Carol Frase [15:19]:
"We will also do a day at Hand and Lock, which is an embroidery workshop studio that does a lot of embroidery for the Royal family."

Guided Tours and Shopping

The itinerary boasts exclusive guided tours of Savile Row, renowned for its tailoring traditions, and a visit to Angel's Costumes, a seven-generation costume supplier for film, TV, and theater with eight miles of hanging costumes. Shopping excursions will include visits to iconic stores like Joel and Son, Goldhawk Road, and the illustrious Liberty for those interested.
Carol Frase [17:07]:
"We will be going to Liberty for those who want to do it... and a visit to something that I don't know much about, but I am really looking forward to."

Guide Information

The tour will be led by Kitty Wiegert, a knowledgeable and personable Dutch guide known for her ability to keep groups organized and engaged. Her expertise ensures a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
Carol Frase [18:50]:
"Kitty Wiegert... she is a really knowledgeable, fun and friendly person and has a great way of keeping the group together and moving along."

Reservation Details

Interested participants can reserve their spot through the Threads Magazine website at shop.threadsmagazine.com. The deposit is due by February 22, with the final payment deadline on March 22. Limited to 15 participants, those who express interest early are encouraged to secure their places promptly.
Carol Frase [20:14]:
"We ask for the deposit by February 22, and then the final payment is due on March 22. And there's a limit of 15 people on this tour."

Additional Content: Spring 2025 Magazine Highlights

Jeanine and Carol take a moment to spotlight the latest Spring 2025 issue of Threads Magazine, brimming with articles designed to inspire and educate sewists:

• Spring Forecast by Vanessa Nerodi: An exploration of trending colors, fabrics, and patterns for spring, accompanied by stunning illustrations from artist Stephen Fleck.

• Perfect Layouts for Matching Prints with Elizabeth Bryant: A guide on preventing motif chopping in printed garments, complete with practical diagrams.

• Sewing Strategies for Plus-Size Sewists by Chacha Hudson: Tailored advice and recommended patterns that cater to a diverse size range, ensuring flattering and easy-to-sew results.

• Advanced Garment Construction with Pamela Howard: Insights into crafting shirt dresses, featuring specific construction tips for achieving professional finishes.

• Exploring Design: Tailored Spring Blazer by Anika Geisberger: Showcasing a uniquely embellished blazer with innovative collar and lapel designs, demonstrating exceptional talent from a Marist University award winner.

Conclusion

Episode 85 of the Threads Magazine Podcast: "Sewing With Threads" offers a comprehensive recap of a successful Amsterdam tour while building excitement for the upcoming London adventure. Hosts Jeanine Clagg and Carol Frase provide valuable insights into what participants can expect, emphasizing hands-on learning, exclusive workshops, and the joy of connecting with fellow sewing enthusiasts. Additionally, the latest Spring 2025 issue of Threads Magazine promises a wealth of inspiration and practical guidance for sewists of all levels.

Notable Quotes:

• Carol Frase [01:25]:
  "Being around 18 people all day who love fabric shopping... really kind of filled my tank a little bit."

• Carol Frase [03:08]:
  "Everybody had their little station set up with a little half scale mannequin... it was really fun."

• Carol Frase [06:41]:
  "It really helps you appreciate what you have... why clothes cost what they cost, if they're nice ones."

• Carol Frase [15:13]:
  "You will leave hopefully with at least one glove finished and then the other one you will make on your own."

• Carol Frase [20:14]:
  "We ask for the deposit by February 22, and then the final payment is due on March 22."

Listeners are encouraged to check out the latest issue of Threads Magazine and consider joining the upcoming London tour for an unforgettable sewing-centric experience.

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Until next time, keep on sewing with threads!