The UK’s favourite TV sewing show has completed its eighth series, with a host of contestants passing through its doors all vying to be crowned Britain’s best Sewer. Some of the most talented sewers from the popular series can be found at the Juki Sewing Celebs workshops, passing on their passion and expertise to visitors. Showcasing their expertise at the show this spring will be past contestants; Mercedes Ferrari-Plumridge, Jen Hogg, Mark Francis, Adam Brooks and Janet Poole.

As well as picking up hints and tips, visitors will also have the chance to see the experts sewing skills up close and personal, with a collection of the competitors’ favourite makes from the series.

Also joining the show this year for the first time is sewing extraordinaire, Clive Bruder’s ‘We Sew Too!’ was born out of the shared experience for the love and passion of sewing. Inspired by the movement of Boys Sew Too, ‘We Sew Too’ aims to challenge the gender stereotypes attached to craft and sewing world, by encouraging everyone of all ages to pick up a needle and thread. Clive will be running workshops throughout the show.

Packed with the latest stitching supplies, fabrics, yarns, patterns and threads Sewing for Pleasure, and sister show Fashion and Embroidery, is the destination for needlework beginners and experts alike. Other specialists in the world of sewing joining the show include:

Shree Desai is a textile designer and workshop leader who is dedicated and passionate about teaching. Her background includes a Master’s in Textile Design in India, after which she experimented with the construction of fabrics in order to create unique pieces of artwork.

Bex Oxide-Tucker is an award-winning textile artist and tutor. She is an avid environmentalist and works with natural processes and dyes plus textured yarns, unconventional materials, and various weaving and dying techniques to create innovative fabrics.

Elnaz Yazdani is an embroidery artist and educator based in Yorkshire. She is dedicated to sharing her skills and promoting the importance of embroidery as an art form for the future and for wellbeing.

Jessica Grady is a mixed media embroidery artist based in West Yorkshire. Her colourful and creative works uses combinations of recycled materials to create hand stitched wall art and sculptures. She teaches workshops and gives talks across the UK and beyond.

From macramé, silk painting and lace making to quilting and needle felting, visitors can find features and get involved with demonstrations and bookable in advance workshops offering the chance to try something completely different or extend their skills with specialist crafters. 

As regulars to the show will know, The Creative Craft show is a haven for paper crafting, art materials, jewellery, ribbons, floristry, and other hard crafts including willow weaving and pottery workshops, so there are plenty of opportunities to gain advice from industry experts, as well as the chance to try something new in the Creative Den workshops. From needlefelt animals to paper quilled earrings, to Peaky Blinders style baker boy hat making workshops, the show is packed with every type of craft only limited by imagination.

Visitors to the shows get 3 shows for the price of 1 with their tickets, giving them access to Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion & Embroidery and The Creative Craft Show. For more information visit www.creativecraftshow.co.uk

Hope to see you there!

Sal xx

The post The Creative Craft Show, Sewing for Pleasure and Fashion and Embroidery<br>Birmingham is back at the NEC, 16th – 19th March 2023. appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

I’m finally getting round to showing you guys my more than just a Halloween Dress, i was inspired by Vicky @sewstainability and Elle @sewpositivity to try and be more environmentally friendly with my makes so instead of just creating a dress that i would wear once for Halloween, i could wear year round!

I found this fabric on Ebay and it was a mere £7.98 for 2 metres with free postage! But once it arrived, I was a little stumped on what dress to make at first but after discussions with Lisa @sewlastminutelisa, finally decided on using Pauline Alice Patterns Aldaia Dress there is a whooping 27 different options to make it yours!

I decided on the View B Bodice with View A Elbow Length Sleeves and View C 6 Gore Skirt. According to the Sizing Guide i was a 46, only alteration i made was to the sleeves as i usually do with my short arms.

The instructions were quite clear on how to sew the dress but I did have to refer to other parts of the instructions as I have combined 3 different parts of each version of the dress but I got there in the end.

For some reason I couldn’t get my darts on the bodice to match with the seams on the skirt hence why I used a quite apt ‘imperfect’ side seam label by Kylie and The Machine. You wouldn’t know as the pattern is quite busy but I know and you know what I ain’t going to let it bother me as at the end of the day, I’ve sewn it and I like it so monkeys to anyone else!

I really do like finishing my hems with a twin needle it gives really good looking results. My Mr Singer (Quantum Stylist 9960) actually behaves quite well for this task.

So here is my finished Dress and you know it’s such a good fit to say I’ve not used Pauline Alice Patterns before and especially not having to shorten the Skirt either! Win win in my book!

So here i am out in the Garden to get a bit of natural light while it lasts! This Dress highlights my good bits so i’ll be definitely making more

Thank you to the Biggest lad for being my Photographer.

So if you haven’t tried Pauline Alice Patterns yet i would highly recommend them for fitting straight out of the packet.

Happy Sewing!

Sal x

The post My more than just Halloween Dress! appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Now i am wanting to keep my Sewing Projects planned out properly and this was ideal at doing so!

It has just the right amount of items to tick off plus there is space to add any other items that you may use in your project, i quite like the tick off boxes as then i can make sure i’ve actually got them by ticking them off.

There are 50 tear off sheets to plan out your dressmaking projects and it also doubles up as handy shopping list for your trips to the fabric shop, as i am that eager to get my supplies i always end up forgeting something and then spending more pennies on stuff that i don’t need there and then!

I found the size of these sheets perfect to add to your projects as they are just the right size not to lose and plus they can go back in the pattern envelope ready to see what supplies was used last time and what size was made at a quick glance rather than wasting time figuring it all out again, always a win in my book to make the sewing process quicker

Just look how cute it looks also when pegged to you final garment?

The Notepads are available to buy here

Happy Sewing!

Sal xx

**This notepad was gifted to me in exchange of my honest review**

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Hannah of Evielaluve asked me if I wanted to pattern test her new bra pattern The Mighty Sports Bra as she is branching out into larger sizes and of course I snapped her offer!

I’m finally getting to some sort of normality still have pain but I’m persevining and not letting get me down and with being on steriods for 2 months there has been unwanted weight gain so its back to healthy eating and getting exercising again!

Also, with my local Gym they offer a discounted rate on Les Mills on Demand with a 30 day free trial and before my health detoratied I was always there taking part in Body Combat and RPM classes and now I have access to these from home and in manageable class times ranging from 15 mins up to the full class so it’s ideal of getting back to it which I’m happy about.

Thankfully I had the majority of the supplies all ready at hand with Grey Saturnus Spandex Scuba and Stretch Mesh from Sew Crafty Shop which is just perfect for that support us busty girls need.

The pattern matched up really well when cutting and sticking and for ease of reading through the instructions and making any notes I could do easily as I printed the instructions off also but normally I would transfer it to my iPad and save a tree. Now, you can’t go without a cuppa in your fav mug can you?

For some strange reason I decided to go for glitter foe which I got from eBay for a couple of quid and kinda wish the magpie in me decided not to go for it as it turns out when wearing the bra it’s quite scratchy on our skin and isn’t comfortable sso you are best sticking to normal foe.

To say this was my 1st sports bra it came to together really well and I would highly recommend using a wide plush elastic for the band at the bottom as I feel it stays in place better and no fear of underboob ?

The only adjustments I made was adding a layer of power mesh to the front in-between the layers just to add more support especially as I’m a 34ff ? I measured 42″ for my bust and went for size 2xl and it fitted spot on.

I took part in Body Combat on Demand and it passes the bounce test with me!

Here is my finished version:

I will be definitley making more of these as I’ve never had this much fantastic support from RTW Sports bra!

Now a little cheeky disocunt for my readers! Hannah has kindly let you have a nice 10% off this pattern but only for a limited time only!

Use code ‘SEWMIGHTY‘ at the checkout

Its valid from Thursday 11th July till Midnight Sunday 14th July 2019 GMT

Happy Sewing!!

Sal xx

The post Pattern Test of The Mighty Sports Bra by Evielaluve appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Hi all!

Can you believe that I haven’t blogged since November! I’m so sorry, life has been quite upside since I’ve been diagnosed with b12 and Vit D deficiencies, I’ve been back and forth to GP fo injections, medication and appointments. Fingers crossed things will be on an even keel soon but thankfully some of my energy is returning and managed to get some sewing! But then to top it all off i’ve gone and fractured my knuckle!! So I’m a little bit annoyed that everything has come to a stand still yet again!

A part of my treatment is to get exercise back into my week but slowly and not to overdo myself which will set me back so I attend my local leisure centre at least once a week with a PT session to see how I’m getting on and making sure I don’t over do it lol, easier said then done though!

So I thought to get my sewjo going I’d make myself a Gym top.

I choose the awesome Saturn Spandex which is more like a scuba in the way it drapes and it’s thickness but it’s really good quality. It’s perfect for activewear! Just look at how cute Sammy packages your goodies!!

I’ve had Melissa book of sewing your activewear for a while but not dared to make anything from it till now! I put on Instagram that I was going to tackle my first activewear project and Melissa kindly replied to tackle the loose fitting top.

First of all, i read the instructions and carefully looked at the sizing chart to make sure I get the correct fit.

So armed with my tracing paper, hello kitty pencil, grading ruler I made a start of tracing my block. Melissa’s instructions are really good to get the perfect fit. At least i did remember to add the Seam Allowances too! 

The loose fitting top is only 4 pattern pieces – front, back, sleeve and neckband. Gotta love simplicity!

Armed with Mr and Mrs Singer I was raring to go!

To give my top an extra special touch I decided to use a twin needle finish to hems and it didn’t take long to get the tension/stitch length right for the fabric.

So here we are the finished results!

My Gym Gear and of course Moi in the leisure centre changing rooms…. I like to be colourful!

It’s also a fab too for running in too as it didn’t ride up  I started back to running/walking last week with the eldest wanting to join in. Well at least i managed to get this made before my accident so its been washed and put ready with my Gym clothes to make a return soon as i’m all healed!

Happy Sewing!!

Sal xx

**All Fabrics and Habersashery were given to me to free of charge for promtion of SewCrafty Shop**

The post Sew Crafty Design Team Project -My 1st activewear Top! appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Now onto introducing more of our lovely Raffle Prize Sponsors!! Without further a do!

By Hand London – 3 PDF’s of winner’s choice . Becca has made the wonderful Anna Dress using African Wax Print and one of these days i will be brave enough to take on the Anna too but for some reason i haven’t got round to it which is daft!

The Lovely Laura of Cotton Reel Studio has kindly donated £30 voucher plus bag of haberdashery items! Laura has a fantastic online shop with a vast array of gorgeous fabrics, i tell you its hard to resist! Thank you Laura for your continued support!

Nina Lee – I’ve got the ever so beautiful Kew Dress on my to do list but Becca had been pattern testing her latest Pattern the Mayfair Dress which is also just as as beautiful! Nina has kindly donated to the Raffle One Sewing Paper Pattern of winner’s choice! Also there is an array of new summer patterns too!

Sew Over It – 5 pdf’s of the winner’s choice. Say what?! That’s a fabulous prize indeed as there is a lovely array of sewing patterns available with a nice vintage twist! Thank you for your continued support!

Sewisfaction – £30 voucher for winner plus a cheeky 10% discount for attendees only!

I’ve made The Franki Top from Wearable Studios using a beautiful floral viscose from Sheona but unfortunately its no longer available but her fabrics are spot on and speedy delivery too! Thank you Sheona for your continued support!

So here is the 2nd lot of thank you so much to our lovely Raffle prize Sponsors! You are all awesome!

Keep your eyes on our feeds as we will be posting more details of the (many more) other sponsors of our amazing raffle!

Sally & Becca xx

The post 2nd round of Sponsers for Sew Up North 2018 appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Hi All!

I was lucky enough to be selected by Melyssa for her 1st ever PDF Pattern to test! The Wearable Studio are a new Indie Pattern Company based in Australia and their patterns are designed to embody beauty, femininity, comfort and elegance. 

When i received the lucky email from her, i knew i had the right fabric for this top in my stash… this lovely Suzy Viscose in Sky from Sewisfaction! It’s such a beautiful print and such a dream to sew with too, no issues whatsoever!

The Franki Top is a versatile transitional piece. It has a boxy, relaxed feel which can be made into an everyday casual top or an elegant feminine piece, both of which will be a staple in your wardrobe.

This pattern will be a breeze for sewists with a little bit of experience but the detailed instructions (written and photograph guides) will gently help build the skills of any beginners too.

Both versions have a flattering hi-lo hem line.

Version 1 features a flirty ruffle hem and three-quarter sleeves with pretty ties.

Version 2 is cropped at the waist and has short sleeves.

I made a Straight Size 12 and had no fit issues with regard to the shoulders where i am petite in that area on some pattern brands lol the only thing i would change in my next version which has to be Version 1 with the ruffle hem and tie sleeves is to lengthen it by 2″ just for personal preference… Don’t think i can get away with the crop look in my early thrities!!  Overall though the instructions were very clear and the pieces fitted well where they should!

So grab yourself a copy now and make your own Franki’s!

Happy Sewing!

Sal xx

The post The Wearable Studio – The Franki Top appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Hi all!

Thought I would join in this year to make 9 garments that i actually want to make and wear! Rather than just for a specific event, I’m wanting to make more everyday clothes!

I’d rather have ‘me made’ clothes that are comfy and fit my quirky style of prints rather than boring plain one colour ready to wear from the High Street, which I’ve gotten into the habit of buying!

I’m planning to get in summer clothes into the list as we are planning an trip to USA in the Summer holidays where i would def need light and airy garments!

So here are my 9 that I’ve managed to wittle down!

1. Sunny Top by  Friday Pattern Company – Can’t go wrong with a staple jersey top.

2. Kinder Cardi by Wendy Ward from her new book – I always wear cardis for work but never at home so I’d thought I would make this one as it has awesome pockets and more a casual look.

3. Lilly Cami by Sinclair Patterns – holiday wardrobe part 1. With 2 different options and so simple to make!

4. McCalls M7536 Dress – A cute everyday dress. I’ve not had a v neck dress made in a while and love the 3 quarter sleeves.

5. Bea Blouse Simply Sewing Magazine – A nice smart top for work

6. Copenhagen Harbor Boardshorts by Stitch upon a Time – Holiday wardrobe part 2. As it’ll be an adventure with plenty of fun I’ll be able to keep my modesty better with shorts rather than skirts! ?

7. Suki Kimono by Helen’s Closet – I’ve always wanted a nice Dressing Gown, so why not put on my list to to kick my bum into making one!

8. Tilly and The Buttons Slipper Boots – Don’t know about you guys but I am forever going through slippers!! They must be my favourite shoes since i go through them so much! So i thought well why not having a go at making my own!

9. Monsal lounge Pants by Wendy Ward – I never seem to have a pair of lounge about pants it’s always my pjs lol so it’s be nice to have a comfy sensible pair…. rather than mad print pjs in case of visitors and for them to think why is she in her pjs at 1pm in the afternoon ?

There you go folks! My #2018MakeNine is all set and ready to go!

What’s on your on list?

Happy sewing!

Sal xx

The post My #2018MakeNine picks! appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Good Evening peeps!

Another day, another Sew Up North update.  I don’t know about you but I’m feeling slightly stunned at how generous people have been with raffle prizes and goody bag discounts. It’s wonderful that people can be so kind and hopefully means we can raise lots of money for the  Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Today’s kind sponsor is Grace of online store Beyond Measure.  If you haven’t had a look at her site yet, I’d highly recommend a browse.  There is a wonderful range of more unusual, high end habberdashery and supplies.  My personal favourites are the leather ruler bracelet (WANT!), the japanese hand sewing needles and the wooden pin cushions, but you would be spoilt for choice.

Grace has very kindly donated a £20 voucher to the raffle prize pool; on top of that, she’s including a 10% discount in the goody bags for every attendee, so save a few pennies to indulge later; I know I will be doing!

Thank you Grace, you are awesome!

Sal x

The post Sew Up North Update – Beyond Measure  appeared first on The Yorkshire Sewist.

Better late than never eh?!I’m joining in with the #theseamstresstag that is going viral around the sewing community well a couple of months ago!?

This is the brainchild of Holly from Holly Sews and I have seen various other people take part such as Claire from Penguin and Pear and Gabby from Gaberdashery.

So….on with the show!

1. Who are you?

Well I’m Sally Kendall aka The Yorkshire Sewist! I’m 31 (or as i see it 21 + 10 hahaha!) I’m married to my childhood Sweetheart Brian and we have 2 Sons. I live in East Yorkshire in the United Kingdom. I’m an Avid Sewist, Simplicity Sewing Expert and Proudly part of The Sew Crafty Design Team!

2. When & why did you start sewing?

It was back in 2014 after i got fed up with Card Making and wanted to try something new as I’ve previously made Jewellery too but got bored….again! So I’ve been sewing for nearly 3 years now and that’s a record compared to my other hobbies!

3. What is your favorite or proudest make?

My favourite make has to be dresses, you can never have enough cute dresses but my proudest make was my 1st Bra and Knickers set that i made a Tutorial for Simplicity which turned out beautifully and has spured me on to make more!

4. What is your most disastrous make?

You have to have mistakes to learn from them and oh yes there have been a few especially in my 1st year of sewing. It was figuring out what adjustments to make for certain brands of Sewing Patterns as i am petite i tend to find that i need to make a narrow back adjustment and to alter sleeves and lengths of garments! So it’s all about learning and to make a toile!

5. Where is your favourite place to go fabric shopping?

Definitely B and M Fabrics and also the indoor markets in Leeds its that bad they know me!!

6. What is your most used pattern?

I usually to try and mix things up and don’t usually make the same thing twice but i have made the DixieDIY Ballet dress 3 times now so i’m thinking that’s my favourite!

7. Your most dreaded sewing task is…

It has to be unpicking especially if I’ve been rushing and not paying attention and sewed a sleeve the wrong way round and you have to unpick all the stitching and then pin and sew again! Argghhh!!

8. And your favourite sewing task?

As weird as it sounds i love inserting invisible zips! Yes i’m peculiar but i love the end result of a lovely placed in zip!

9. What is your favourite ‘sewing entertainment’?

I don’t really have a ‘sewing entertainment’ Maybe have the TV on but i don’t watch but then i sew in the Living Room soo there is a lot of background noise from the Family!

10. Printed or PDF?

Now i love both! If i’m that eager to get sewing it right away I’ll buy pdf as long as it about 20 pages max but if its a big pattern i.e. a dress then ill wait for the paper pattern as i’ll be there all night otherwise lol.

11. What sewing machine do you use?

Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 that my hubby bought me for my 30th. Its a super duper digital machine and love the auto thread cutting feature and speed settings. Also have the Singer 14SH754 Overlocker that I’m learning to use bu it is fantastic for finishing off seams and sewing with Jersey!

12. Do you have any other hobbies?

Does Blogging and Food shopping count? lol

I’m not going to tag anyone as the majority may have already done it!, so if any of you decide to join in on your own blog, please comment below to let me know so I can have a read!

Sal xx

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