From Biscuits to Patterns: A Journey of Discovery

Embracing Sustainable Sewing and Creative Wardrobe Strategies with Leena Norms

Join us in this episode as we chat with Leena Norms about her journey into sustainable fashion, her sewing projects, and managing a creative wardrobe. If you're passionate about eco-friendly practices, body positivity, and embracing your craft, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiring stories. * Leena Norms’ background and evolution from marketing to full-time content creator * The role of sewing in environmental sustainability and mindful consumption * Strategies for flexible patterns and adaptable garments for changing bodies * Navigating fabric and pattern choices to reflect personal style and body flux * Managing fabric and clothing stashes mindfully and avoiding overconsumption * Ideas for creative reuse: turning worn-out clothes into bags, quilts, or other keepsakes * The psychology and dopamine cycle behind fabric shopping and sewing projects * Incorporating vintage and secondhand shopping as sustainable and meaningful habits 00:00 - Introduction to Leena Norms and her journey into sewing and sustainability 02:49 - Leena discusses her background in marketing and transition to sewing full-time 09:17 - The importance of sewing for climate consciousness and ethical fashion choices 10:52 - How body changes influence sewing patterns and garment adjustments 12:36 - The value of vintage shopping and secondhand clothing in sustainable wardrobe planning 15:23 - Patterns recommended for adaptable fit and growing bodies—Suvi Kaftan and Henrietta Skirt 20:21 - Handling fabric stash growth responsibly and the psychology behind fabric buying 25:00 - How to repurpose beloved but ill-fitting garments into bags or decor 30:00 - Patterns and projects for the busy sewist or those needing quick projects 35:34 - The importance of sewing for joy and mental well-being, not just productivity 42:33 - Tools and apps to organize your wardrobe and fabric collection effectively 50:54 - The concept of deadstock fabric and its implications in sustainable fashion 58:37 - Ethical shopping: supporting local, small businesses, and conscious consumption 61:41 - Final thoughts on balancing creative passion with environmental responsibility * Leena Norms on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@leenanorms]– Sustainable fashion, sewing tutorials, and style tips * Indyx– Wardrobe organization and outfit planning tool [https://www.myindyx.com/] * Henrietta Skirt Pattern by Spaghetti Western [https://spaghettiwesternpatterns.com/] – Versatile pattern for various fabrics and sizes * Suvi Kaftan and Dress Pattern [https://sewoholicpatterns.com/] – Adjustable, inclusive fits for evolving bodies * Big Four Pattern Brands – Recognized for their extensive range but know their limitations * Vintage and Secondhand Fashion Platforms [https://www.vinted.com/] – Secondhand shopping, vintage finds, and sustainable fashion * https://www.youtube.com/@leenanorms [https://www.youtube.com/@leenanorms] * The role of pattern adaptability in body flux management * Creative ways to signify sentimental clothing, like transforming into bags * How sewing can serve as a mindfulness practice, reducing overconsumption and fostering joy Main Topics:Timeline Highlights:Resources & Recommendations:Connect with Leena Norms:Additional Insights: Thank you for listening! For questions, comments, or topic suggestions, reach out via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sewwhatsnewpod/ or email us at sewnewbiscuit@gmail.com. Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations on sustainable creativity and mindful living.

Live Episode at the Stitch Festival - Keeping it real

Hey everyone Today's episode was record on 20th March 2026 on the Stitch stage at the business design centre in London. Thank you to all the wonderful people who attended. Thank you to Kate of Ripper Seams for being our guest. We hope you enjoy this episode where we keep it real. We share sewing dilemmas and confessions.

Fabric Stashing is Not a Personality

In this episode, hosts Samantha and Jess explore the concept of fabric stashing, its cultural implications, and how it relates to identity and consumer habits in the sewing community. They share personal stories, industry insights, and practical tips for supporting independent businesses while managing fabric collections. Sew What's New Podcast - https://sewwhatsnewpodcast.com Support Endometriosis UK - https://www.endometriosis-uk.org Liberty Fabrics - https://www.libertylondon.com Wilder Fabrics - https://wilderfabrics.com Sew me Sunshine Fabric Shop - https://sewmesunshine.com Jay Cots Fabrics - https://jaysfabrics.co.uk William G Fabrics - https://williamg.co.uk  guest links Instagram - https://instagram.com/sewwhatsnew YouTube - https://youtube.com/sewwhatsnew Email - sewnewbiscuit@gmail.com  keywords sewing, fabric stash, sewing community, independent shops, fabric buying habits, sewing tips, mental health and sewing, sustainable sewing, sewing hobbies, fabric shopping  key  topics The evolution of the term 'stash' in sewing culture The psychological and social reasons for fabric collecting Impact of COVID-19 on fabric shopping and sewing community Supporting independent fabric shops and online resources Strategies for managing fabric stash and supporting sustainable sewing    sound bites "Fabric stashing is not a personality." "Anton Dubèche is coming to a VIP event for fundraisers." "Nothing will beat the prep I did for the sleeve episode." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode 03:06 Exciting Events and Community Engagement 05:52 Sewing and Running: A Unique Community 08:54 Personal Highlights and Upcoming Events 11:57 Fabric Choices and Creative Processes 14:58 Seam Allowances: A Deep Dive 23:56 Main Topic: Fabric Stashing is Not a Personality 25:36 The Evolution of Fabric Stashing 28:03 The Impact of COVID on Fabric Buying 30:00 Navigating the Online Fabric Shopping Experience 34:01 The Dilemma of Excess Fabric 38:00 Conscious Making and Wardrobe Planning 43:01 Supporting Independent Fabric Shops 45:59 The Psychology of Fabric Buying 49:55 Creating a Creative Breathing Space  resources

From Biscuits to Patterns: A Journey of Discovery

In this episode, Jess and Sam welcome Ruana, the Yorkshire Sew Girl, to discuss a variety of topics ranging from biscuits to sewing. They explore the significance of the biscuit question as an icebreaker, share personal stories about their sewing journeys, and delve into the challenges and joys of sewing during lockdown. The conversation also touches on the divisive topic of zero waste patterns, the guilt associated with fabric scraps, and the importance of intentional fabric buying. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the supportive nature of the sewing community and the personal connections that enhance the craft. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the journey of sewing, emphasizing the importance of community, the learning process, and the joy of creating. They discuss the challenges faced by beginners, the significance of embracing mistakes, and the value of choosing the right patterns. The dialogue highlights the social aspects of sewing, the need for patience, and the excitement of personal style development. The speakers also touch on the concept of 'adventurous beginner' and the importance of celebrating progress in one's sewing journey. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 06:02 Biscuit Preferences and Personalities 12:05 Learning to Sew: The Early Days 18:00 Starting a YouTube Channel and Community Engagement 24:51 The Debate on Wearability and Style 33:37 The Social Side of Sewing 41:46 Connecting with the Sewing Community 48:05 Navigating the Beginner's Journey in Sewing 55:57 The Importance of Skill Development 01:10:54 Celebrating Progress and Community in Sewing

I Can't Believe She Said That!

In this episode of 'So What's New in the Biscuit Tin', hosts Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding sewing, fashion, and community engagement. They discuss the concept of sack dresses, listener feedback on their previous episodes, and the importance of hobbies outside of sewing. The conversation also touches on upcoming events, personal milestones, and the intersection of fashion and body politics, emphasizing the need for self-expression and comfort in clothing choices. In this episode, Samantha and Jess explore various themes surrounding fashion, body image, and the sewing community. They discuss the rise of conservative fashion trends, the importance of comfort in clothing choices, and the significance of understanding others' fashion decisions. The conversation also delves into the concept of zero waste patterns, the frustrations of inconsistent seam allowances in patterns, and the implications of red carpet fashion. Finally, they provide insights on building connections within the sewing community, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and forming friendships. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Overview 02:13 Discussion on Sack Dresses 03:34 Listener Feedback and Community Engagement 06:31 Exploring Other Hobbies 10:15 Upcoming Events and Announcements 15:43 Celebrating Milestones and Achievements 21:49 Sewing Projects and Personal Reflections 24:49 Celebrating Creativity in Sewing 25:27 The Great British Sewing Bee and Zero Waste Patterns 26:57 The Backlash Against Zero Waste Fashion 29:45 Fashion, Comfort, and Body Politics 32:53 The Politics of Fashion and Body Image 35:18 Fashion as a Political Statement 37:44 The Role of Zero Waste Patterns in Fashion 39:46 Personal Choices in Fashion and Body Representation 50:05 Rants and Reflections on Pattern Making 51:22 Understanding Seam Allowances in Patterns 56:33 Fashion Trends and Red Carpet Looks 01:03:10 Building Connections in the Sewing Community