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Every 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. 🧵✨

What 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: @TheSewcialHourPodcast Join our Facebook group: The Sewcial Sewists Subscribe on YouTube and your favorite podcast app so you never miss a Tuesday episode!

As 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

What happens when the sewing group chat finally leaves the internet and becomes real life? ✨🧵 In Episode 35 of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra are joined by former guest Missy Luukkonen for a cozy, laughter-filled recap of their girls sewing trip to Peoria, Illinois. For four glorious days, the three of them piled into an Airbnb filled with sewing machines, fabric stacks, pajamas, wine glasses, and nonstop laughter. They stitched late, laughed until they cried, and soaked up the kind of creative energy that only happens when sewists come together in real life. In this episode, they talk about: • How sewing friendships grow — and why they matter so much • What it really takes to turn a group chat into an actual trip • Letting go of perfection and embracing connection • Why sewing retreats are about more than just finishing projects • How saying “yes” to community can spark creativity and confidence If a sewing retreat or girls sewing getaway is on your 2026 bucket list, consider this your gentle nudge to take the leap. The friendships, memories, and creative joy are worth it. 🎒🧵🍷 Whether you’re dreaming of planning your first sewing retreat or just craving deeper connections in the sewing community, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, encouraged, and ready to book the Airbnb. Follow Us: Craft with Bethany - https://www.instagram.com/craftwithbethany/ SewDreamy - https://www.instagram.com/sewdreamy The Little Green Bean - https://www.instagram.com/thelittlegreenbean ✨ Next Week: Planning for 2026 and sewing with intention! 💬 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

🎙️ Episode 34: Cloud9 Fabrics - Sustainable Style, Creative Vision & the Future of Fabric This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re thrilled to sit down with Gina Pantastico and Michelle Engel, two of the brilliant founders behind Cloud9 Fabrics, a company known for its gorgeous designs, commitment to sustainability, and thoughtful approach to fabric manufacturing. If you’ve ever sewn with Cloud9, you know: their fabrics feel as good as they look. In this episode, we explore the story behind the brand, how they bring collections to life, and the passion that has fueled their mission since the beginning. ✨ In This Episode: • The Cloud9 Origin Story: how Gina and Michelle built a company centered around organic cotton, ethical sourcing, and beautiful design. • Behind the Scenes of Fabric Production: from initial design concepts to working with artists, selecting substrates, and navigating today’s manufacturing challenges. • Industry Trends & Future Insights: where they see the sewing world headed and what excites them most right now. • Advice for Makers & Aspiring Designers: guidance for indie designers, small businesses, and anyone dreaming of designing fabric or collaborating with manufacturers. • Spool School: a special guest-led edition! • You Love to See It: celebrations, accomplishments, and creative wins from all four of us. Gina and Michelle also give us a peek into their day-to-day roles at Cloud9: Gina as Director of Operations with decades of global sourcing experience, and Michelle as Creative Director with a talent for discovering artists and telling stories through design. 🌿 Explore More from Cloud9: 📘 Look Book: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/cloud9may2025.html 🌐 Website: https://cloud9fabrics.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cloud9fabrics 🎙️ Call to Action: Subscribe to The Sewcial Hour  Leave us a review if you enjoyed today’s conversation  Follow @cloud9fabrics and explore their latest collections  Share your favorite Cloud9 makes or fabric pulls in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group! Next week: A fun, behind-the-scenes episode recorded at our sewing retreat with Missy, Audra, and Bethany!

This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra are wrapping up the year with gratitude, laughter, and a little strategic sewing talk. ✨🧵 In this cozy, year-end chat, the hosts reflect on the moments, projects, and people that made this year of The Sewcial Hour Podcast so special, from community highlights to personal creative wins. Then it’s time to get practical! With Black Friday right around the corner, Bethany and Audra break down their best strategies for navigating the biggest sewing shopping weekend of the year without stress, overspending, or getting overwhelmed. Whether you’re eyeing new notions, planning a machine upgrade, or perfecting your sewing wishlist, they’ve got you covered with tips for smarter, happier stitching. They dive into: -  What they’re most thankful for this year  - Their game plan for Black Friday fabric + sewing deals  - How to build a wishlist that keeps you focused (and inspired!)  - Big-ticket buying tips, price-checking, and supporting local shops  - Why shopping with a sewing friend might just save you from impulse buys  - Plus: This week’s Stitch & Share and You Love to See It moments! Listeners are encouraged to join in the fun by sharing their #SewingWishlist or gratitude moments in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook group or by tagging the hosts on Instagram. ✨ Next Week: A conversation with Gina Pantastico & Michelle Engel of Cloud9 Fabrics! 💬 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

Episode 32: Guest - Genesis Hall | The Genesis of a Journey This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, Bethany and Audra are thrilled to welcome 15-year-old award-winning quilter and fabric designer, Genesis Hall! 🌟 From living abroad as a military kid to launching her debut fabric collection with Riley Blake Designs, Genesis’ story is a beautiful example of how creativity, courage, and community can come together to shape a young artist’s path. She shares how travel, culture, and curiosity have influenced her quilting style and how she’s balancing teenage life with an emerging career in the sewing industry. We chat about her first fabric line — “The Genesis of a Journey” — inspired by her time growing up in Europe, and her exciting collaborations with Renaissance Ribbons and Aurifil Thread. Plus, Genesis offers heartfelt advice for other young makers finding their voice in a creative world that’s often a few generations older. Stick around for our rapid-fire fun round, some “You Love to See It” wins, and an inspiring look at what’s next for this rising star of the sewing community. ✨ Links & Resources:  🧵 Instagram: @gennyfromthequiltblock 🎨 Fabric Collection: The Genesis of a Journey – Riley Blake Designs 🎀 Notions: Renaissance Ribbons – Genesis Hall Collection 🧶 Thread Collections: Checker DistributorsFat Quarter ShopBrewer Sewing💡 Affiliate Links: SewTitesJuki Junkies💬 Join the Conversation:  Share your favorite takeaways and connect with other sewists in our Facebook group, The Sewcial Sewists. 📲 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tag a young maker who might be inspired by Genesis’ story! Next week: Thanksgiving Reflections & Black Friday Planning 🦃🧵

Episode 31: Sewing Costumes This week on The Sewcial Hour, we’re diving into a topic that brings out big feelings in the sewing world — costume sewing! Whether you love the creativity or dread the chaos, we’re unpacking the magic, the mayhem, and all the lessons that come from sewing costumes. From Halloween and cosplay to theater productions and school projects, we talk about what makes costume sewing such a unique (and sometimes stressful!) experience. We’ll share the joys, challenges, and skill-building opportunities that come with sewing everything from wings to corsets — plus a few last-minute “night before Halloween” confessions. 🎧 Tune in to hear:  🧵 Why costume sewing can be a great creative outlet (and learning tool)  🎭 The difference between fun and perfection-driven projects  💡 Our best tips for sewing unusual materials — and keeping your sanity And don’t miss the costume photos we’re sharing over in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group and on Instagram! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/ Follow Bethany: https://www.instagram.com/craftwithbethany/ Follow Audra: https://www.instagram.com/sewdreamy/ #TheSewcialHourPodcast #CostumeSewing #SewingCommunity #CosplaySewing #SewistsOfInstagram

Episode 30: Sewing with Kids This week on The Sewcial Hour, we’re tackling a fun (and sometimes chaotic!) topic — sewing with kids. Whether you’re teaching your own children, grandkids, or students, we’re sharing our favorite tips, kid-friendly projects, and pitfalls to avoid so you can make sewing a positive experience for everyone. We’ll chat about why sewing with kids matters, how it builds patience, confidence, and creativity, plus our go-to beginner projects like pillowcases, scrunchies, and simple garments. We’ll also share ways to keep things low-pressure and fun — from letting kids pick their own fabrics to celebrating progress over perfection. 🎧 Tune in to hear our icebreaker, “What was your favorite go-to show as a child?” and join the conversation by sharing your (or your kids’) first sewing memories in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or by tagging us on Instagram! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/ Follow Bethany: https://www.instagram.com/craftwithbethany/ Follow Audra: https://www.instagram.com/sewdreamy/ #TheSewcialHourPodcast #SewingWithKids #SewingCommunity

Episode 29: Preparing for Holiday Sewing – How to Plan, Pace, and Protect Your Joy 🎄✂️ Holiday sewing season is here! In this week’s episode of The Sewcial Hour, Bethany and Audra share practical tips for tackling your festive projects without sacrificing your sanity (or your joy). From setting realistic goals to honoring your limits, you’ll learn how to avoid burnout, plan ahead, and keep the magic in your making. We talk:  🎁 The “Pinterest effect” and why expectations can sneak up on you  📝 Choosing projects wisely and creating realistic timelines  💡 Tips for batching, shortcuts, and self-care  🧵 How to give yourself permission to scale back without guilt Plus, we swap stories of our own holiday sewing “flops” (hello, 10-week sew-along!) and share practical ways to make this season more manageable and meaningful. ✨ Tune in to Episode 29 and start your holiday sewing season feeling prepared, calm, and inspired. Then tell us your holiday sewing wins and flops in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/ Follow Bethany: https://www.instagram.com/craftwithbethany/ Follow Audra: https://www.instagram.com/sewdreamy/

 🎉 We’ve officially hit six months of The Sewcial Hour Podcast, and what better way to celebrate than with a listener Q&A? This week, we’re diving into your questions — from quilting must-haves and beginner garment sewing, to projector sewing, repurposing clothes, memory bears, and even what it’s really like to work in the sewing industry. Whether you’re curious about drafting your own patterns, wondering if you need a serger, or just looking for fresh inspiration, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest advice, and a few laughs along the way. Plus, we share what other podcasts we’re listening to, swap seasonal sewing favorites, and of course — wrap things up with our beloved “You Love to See It” segment. ✨ Tune in to hear your questions answered and join the conversation in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group. Who knows — your question might show up in our next mailbag episode! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

Episode 27: Upcycling with Luisa This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Luisa Hurtado — fashion designer, sewing educator, Brother Sewing ambassador, and content creator with a true passion for upcycling! Born in Mexico and now based in Las Vegas, Luisa inspires sewists worldwide with her bilingual tutorials, innovative designs, and creative approach to turning everyday items into one-of-a-kind fashion. In this episode, we chat with Luisa about: 🧵 Her journey from fashion design to content creation and teaching globally with Domestika ♻️ Why upcycling holds so much creative (and sustainable) power 🌎 Building community through bilingual content and brand collaborations 🎁 Her upcoming projects — including a brand new sewing pattern and local upcycling workshop Luisa’s energy and creativity remind us that small steps can lead to big transformations — in sewing and beyond! 🎧 Tune in now for an inspiring conversation that will have you looking at your closet, thrift shop finds, and fabric scraps in a whole new light. 👉 Connect with Luisa: Instagram: @imluluisa TikTok: @designerluisa YouTube: LuLuisa Facebook: imluluisa Website: luluisa.com Domestika Course: Fashion Upcycling Book Feature: Found. 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

Whether you’ve been sewing for years or are just starting out, chances are you’ve met the infamous quilt police. You know the type, the ones quick to point out “rules” or tell you you’re doing it wrong. In this episode, Bethany and Audra dive into the world of sewing criticism: the constructive, the unsolicited, and the projection-based comments that can show up both online and in person. We explore why the quilt police exist, how to tell the difference between feedback that helps and feedback that hurts, and most importantly, how to protect your joy in sewing. From setting boundaries to reframing mistakes as learning opportunities, this episode is full of encouragement for anyone who’s ever felt judged for their stitches, fabric choices, or creative path. 💬 Have you had a run-in with the quilt police? We’d love to hear your story! Share it in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram. ✨ Next week: A conversation with Luisa Hurtado (@imluluisa) on fashion design and upcycling! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

Episode 25 – Pride & Joy Quilting with Guest Veruschka Zarate This week on The Sewcial Hour Podcast, we’re joined by the incredibly talented and award-winning quilt maker and pattern designer Veruschka Zarate of Pride & Joy Quilting. Known for her bold, vibrant designs and mastery of foundation paper piecing (FPP), Veruschka shares how she discovered her passion for quilting, what inspires her jaw-dropping creations, and her favorite tips for quilters ready to try FPP for the first time. We chat about her journey from learning traditional piecing in 2016 to becoming a BERNINA and Handi Quilter Ambassador, teaching internationally, and even releasing her own WonderFil thread collection. Plus, she tells us what keeps her creativity flowing, how she pushes the boundaries of FPP design, and the joy she finds in teaching others. Whether you’re new to paper piecing or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with inspiration, encouragement, and practical advice you won’t want to miss. Follow Veruschka: Instagram: @prideandjoyquilting Facebook: Pride & Joy Quilting TikTok: @prideandjoyquilting YouTube: Pride & Joy Quilting Website: prideandjoyquilting.com ✨ Next week: Dealing with Criticism & the Quilt Police - don’t miss it! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/

Episode 24: Longarm Quilting with Adam Rateliff This week, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Adam Rateliff: quilter, educator, and creative force behind @adamsewfun. Adam has stitched his way from a childhood love of fiber arts to a career teaching quilting around the globe, inspiring makers to embrace bold color, break a few “rules,” and have fun in their creative space. In this conversation, Adam shares how discovering longarm quilting changed the trajectory of his life, the joys and challenges of teaching worldwide, and his advice for anyone curious about diving into this powerful quilting technique. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already in love with longarming, Adam’s insights will help you approach your projects with more confidence and joy. We also talk about finding your creative lane, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, and the rewarding connections that come from being part of the sewing community. And, of course, we have some fun in our rapid-fire round because every great sewing conversation needs a little laughter. 💡 Follow Adam and his quilting adventures: Instagram: @adamsewfun Facebook: Adam Sew Fun YouTube: Adam Sew Fun Linktree: Adam Sew Fun Links 💬 Icebreaker: If you could instantly be amazing at any non-sewing skill or hobby, what would it be and why? Share in The Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group or tag us on Instagram! ✨ Next week: Veruschka Zarate of Pride & Joy Quilting – don’t miss it! 💬 Stay connected: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @TheSewcialHourPodcast, subscribe wherever you listen, and don’t forget to share your thrifty sewing tips with us in the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group! Join the Sewcial Sewists Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15huSR1cbA/ Follow The Sewcial Hour Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialhourpodcast/