The Straight Stitch: A Podcast About Sewing and Other Fiber Arts.

Send us feedback about this episode!In this episode, we sit down with Sherri Nelson, the creative force and organizer behind the upcoming Sac Bag 'n Sew Expo, happening this September 2025 in Sacramento, California. Sherri shares the heart and vision behind the event, what makes it unique, and how it's bringing together the sewing, bag-making, and creative communities for a weekend filled with inspiration and connection. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the planning process, the exciting lineup of classes, vendors, and guest speakers, and what goes into building a maker-centered event that celebrates creativity and community. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired!Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!This episode features a conversation with Christine Lindebak, founder of Sewing and the City. Christine is a fashion designer and sewing entrepreneur who's bringing high style to the home sewing world. Christine shares her journey from sewing as a child to working in the fashion industry to building a modern, inclusive pattern brand that empowers makers to express their personal style through timeless, city-inspired designs. Whether you're a beginner looking for motivation or a seasoned sewist ready to infuse your makes with fresh perspective, Christine's story will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to take on your next project.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Has your desire to sew—something that should bring you pleasure—ever taken a vacation? It happens to all of us at one point or another. The reasons could be anything from life stress to creative paralysis. In this episode, we'll explore the reasons for sewing slumps, how to reignite that creative spark, and offer support for the idea that sometimes, a break is not a bad thing. Listeners are invited to share stories of times their sew-jo went on walkabout and how they reeled it back in. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a chatty update about what I've been sewing and the ongoing disappearance of fabric stores. One of my favorite stores outside of Seattle announced last week that it was closing, and the first wave of Joann Fabrics locations have shuttered for good. Is online shopping an alternative? I'll offer up some suggestions for my favorite online retailers as we prepare to navigate a changing landscape. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!This episode explores the importance of textiles in marketing and branding. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, in Spokane, WA, houses a unique collection of over 150 cloth flour sacks, dating from 1900 to the 1940s, which showcase the evolution of flour packaging and its significance in regional and international trade. Beginning in the mid-1800s, Eastern Washington established itself a major wheat-growing area, at one time having over 100 mills shipping products around the globe. Learn about the vibrant designs tailored for markets in China, Japan, the Philippines, and El Salvador, and explore how these sacks were repurposed into household items during the Depression era. Staff member Ellen Postlewaite brings us the stories woven into these everyday objects and their role in Spokane's development as a major milling center.​Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode features an interview with renowned textile artist and quilter Sylvia Pippen, whose work beautifully blends traditional Japanese sashiko with contemporary appliqué techniques. Sylvia shares her creative journey—from growing up in a family of artists to developing her signature style inspired by nature, Pacific Island culture, and the rhythms of hand stitching.We talk about the history and uses of sashiko, the process behind her stunning botanical designs, and how she approaches teaching with both tradition and innovation in mind. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or simply curious about slow stitching, Sylvia's insights will leave you inspired to pick up your needle and thread.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!In this episode, we explore the innovative world of using a projector to cut out sewing patterns, eliminating the need for pinning or tracing. Whether you're a curious beginner or looking to streamline your sewing process, today's guest, Sheredith Hardy, breaks down everything you need to know: how projectors work, what equipment you need, how to set it up, and tips for making the transition smooth and successful.​ Sheredith offers a wealth of resources through her website, www.ProjectorSewing.,com, including tutorials, product reviews, and her comprehensive “Master Projector Sewing: Complete Projector Confidence” course, designed to guide you through every step of adopting projector sewing.​Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!In this episode, I take a closer look at the essential tools that make my sewing more efficient and enjoyable. From sewing machines and scissors to pins, measuring tools, and beyond, I am sharing my favorite items from my sewing toolbox—what I love, why I chose the ones I did, and how they've improved my projects over time. Whether you're just beginning your sewing journey or looking to refine your current setup, this episode offers helpful insights and practical recommendations for every level of sewist.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Millinery is the art and craft of designing, making, and selling hats, typically women's hats. A milliner is a skilled artisan who creates hats using various materials like felt, straw, fabric, and embellishments such as feathers, ribbons, and beads. In today's episode, guest Andrea Blohm introduces us to the art of millinery and its place in the world of modern sewing. Andrea is co-owner of the North American Millinery Group, which produces Millinery Meet Up, the largest millinery education event in the US, and The American Institute of Millinery Education, a virtual learning format featuring instructors from around the world. She is also on the boards of the Michigan Folk school and The Milliners Guild.  Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!We've had a slew of new listeners to the podcast in the past couple of weeks (yay!). Not everyone wants to go back and listen to the podcast from the beginning, so I thought I'd do a recap of who I am and how I got here. It's a tale with a few plot twists—including six months of chemotherapy at age 28 for leukemia—but it details my journey as a knitting designer and now sewist. Hopefully, my story will be both encouraging and entertaining. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Join me for a lovely chat with Emma Jones of Vintage Sewing Box. Emma is a UK designer who delights in all things needle and thread. A former primary school teacher, Emma has combined her love of sewing with her talent as an instructor and shares her passion through Instagram, YouTube, patterns, and more. She specializes in English paper piecing and embroidery, often combining both in her designs. If you are a fan of EPP, you'll be inspired by Emma's work, and if you haven't yet tried EPP, let Emma introduce you to the joys of hand sewing using this traditional technique. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a recap of Janet's trip to Sew Expo 2025, in Puyallup, WA. Sew Expo is an event sponsored by Washington State University and is in its fifth decade. Janet went as a teacher for the second time, teaching five knitting classes and a sewing class (on thread). Arriving a couple of days early gave her the opportunity to visit a few Joann Fabrics stores to see how the liquidation was progressing and also a chance to shop at Pacific Fabrics, one of her favorite fabric stores in Seattle. Come along as she talks about what she saw, the fabric she bought, and her first experience making underwear!Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!By the time this episode drops, I'll be on my way to Sew Expo in Puyallup, Washington, to teach five knitting classes and a sewing class. In this episode, I sit down to chat with Morgan Kavanagh, one of the staff members at the Pacific Northwest Quilt and Fiber Arts Museum. The museum is currently hosting the Red Dress Project, which is a gown that traveled the world for several years while various artists added their voices to it in the form of embroidery. We also talk about the educational programs and what's coming next for the museum.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!This episode is all about interfacing—a crucial element in garment construction that can make a big difference in the structure and longevity of your projects. Whether you're making a crisp shirt collar, sturdy bag handles, or reinforcing a hem, interfacing provides that extra support and stability. We'll cover the different types of interfacing and their construction. Plus, we'll give you tips on how to choose the right one for your fabric, and share some tricks for working with it to ensure your creations come out looking professional every time. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, understanding interfacing is key to taking your sewing projects to the next level.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a cozy chat about what's been happening in my sewing room. Grab your beverage of choice and pull up a comfy chair and join me for a discussion of sewing projects, sewing classes, and what is going on with Joann Fabrics. How has 2025 started out for you? Are you working on the projects you thought you'd be working on or have your plans been derailed? Do you think young people want to learn how to sew? Will you be affected if Joanns goes out of business? Let's take a few minutes to check in on the state of sewing and where we're headed.Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!This episode is about die cutters—innovative tools that have revolutionized quilting and fabric cutting. I'll talk mostly about the Accuquilt cutters, because those are the ones I own and know well. Learn how these die cutters work, the different types of dies available, how much they cost, and whether or not a die cutter might be a good fit for your quilting practice. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!My guest today is Inge deGroot, a resident of he Netherlands, who reached out and asked to share her passion project about making a custom dress form. Inge tried several methods of creating a dress form that was similar to her body shape, but was not satisfied with the results. After months of research, she was able to locate a company in her area to make a 3D scan of her body. Ultimately, those scans went to another company which produced a dress form. This dress form mirrors the shape of her body and has enabled her to create perfectly-fitting clothing for herself. Inge has created a website detailing the process so that other sewists can follow her method in their local areas. We had a fun conversation that I think you'll enjoy even if you don't sew your own clothes!Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode features an interview with Yvette of Stash Hub. Yvette and her husband, Doug, are the talented couple behind the creation of this app that enables sewists to catalog and curate their stashes. Overwhelmed by fabric, patterns, and notions? Stash Hub will help you organize what you have and provide inspiration for tackling those projects. Our conversation includes some fun anecdotes about rats, sewing injuries, and the importance of confetti. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!What do you know about zippers? How are nylon coil zippers different from molded plastic zippers? Can you shorten a zipper? How? In this episode, we'll talk about all the different kinds of zippers available and how to choose the correct one for your projects. Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest is Susan Skalak, a fiber artist and owner of With Needle and Stick. Susan currently resides in Virginia, where her flock of sheep and goats provide the raw material with which she designs and makes custom needle-felted coats. Hear about Susan's journey from mechanical engineer to fiber artist and how those two practices are not as different as one might imagine. Susan's commitment to putting fibershed prinicples into practice is inspiring!Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a look back at the sewing I did in 2024 and a look ahead to what I want to make in 2025. I'll also talk a bit about the podcast and plans for growing it in the new year. I've always believed it's much easier to see the road ahead when you look back to see how far you've come!Show notes for each episode: www.thestraightstitchpodcast.comMy website: www.janetszabo.comSee my sewing projects at: www.janetszabo.com/blogE-mail me! janet@janetszabo.com

Send us feedback about this episode!Simply Classic is a company focused on helping sewists to make chic and functional bags for everyday use. Owner Christine Hall Murphy joins me today to talk about her journey from CPA to bag designer and her efforts to bring the art of bagmaking to home sewists. Simply Classic seeks to educate bagmakers through its quarterly subscription program, a robust YouTube channel with tutorials and the weekly Bag Maker's Workroom Live, and—soon!—classes and workshops with Chris. Her range of pattern offers something for everyone, from those just beginning to work with leather and heavier materials to those with years of experience. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Liz Pike is the owner of Let's Get Sewing, a sewing school in Spokane, Washington. Liz has combined her experience as a former public school teacher with her love of sewing and now offers after-school sewing classes to school-age children (and adults!). Her summer camps provide an opportunity for kids to explore their creativity while simultaneously reinforcing lessons learned in math and language during the school year. Have you thought about teaching kids in your area to sew? Liz has some wonderful ideas for engaging new sewists of all ages and inspiring them to love the craft as much as we do. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Our guest today is Alayna Rasile, a member of the board of the Montana Fibershed. What is a fibershed, you ask? "A fibershed is a geographically defined area in which fiber resources (wool, flax, hemp, cotton, etc.) are produced and then used by the people living within its boundaries." We'll hear from Alayna about how the Montana Fibershed organization is overcoming geographic and economic challenges to connect fiber producers with end users. 

Send us feedback about this episode!In this episode, we'll continue the topic of sewing after the apocalypse with a discussion of those supplies and skills that are most essential. This is also a great primer on the basics that a new sewist might want to have on hand for many common situations. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a bit tongue-in-cheek; I don't expect there to be an apocalypse, but have you ever thought about how you might sew if the grid went down? People used to do it all the time, and we can learn from the past. This episode focuses on people-powered machinery—treadle sewing machines and handcrank sewing machines—and how to find and refurbish one for yourself. 

Send us feedback about this episode!I recently had the opportunity to take a trouser drafting class with Kenneth D. King at the Sewing and Design School in Tacoma, WA. Kenneth is professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Kenneth won the Association of Sewing and Design Professional's 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award. He is known for his articles in Threads Magazine, his books, CD books, TV show (Sewing Today), and "Jean-ius," an online class on Craftsy. Ryliss Bod, owner of the Sewing and Design School, brings Kenneth to Tacoma several times a year to teach in-depth classes to small groups of students. I also went a day early to take a coat class with Ryliss. Hear about both classes and what I learned in this episode!

Send us feedback about this episode!This is a topic near and dear to my heart because summer is the season when I do the least amount of sewing. Gardening and other outdoor activities take up much of my time. I am looking forward to winter and having large blocks of time to tackle challenging projects. In this episode, I offer some tips for feeling productive when time in your sewing room is limited. I'll also recap a recent trip to Cleveland and talk about the fabric stores I visited, including a few quilt stores in Holmes County. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest is Tabatha Smith, owner and creative force behind Camellia Palms Retreat Center in Florala, Alabama. Hear how she went from "someone who couldn't sew" to accomplished quilter, retreat hostess, and creative entrepreneur. Quilt Queens, her online quilting community at Skool.com, offers members an inspirational and encouraging forum for advancing their skills. And in 2025, she plans to host Quilted Summit, an virtual quilting conference featuring a variety of guest presenters. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Sergers can do so much more than just finish seams. With the correct presser foot, a serger can insert zippers, add cording or wire to edges, create piping, attach beads, make blind hems, and so much more. In this episode, we'll explore the many kinds of presser feet available for sergers, even basic models, and discuss how they can expand your arsenal of tools and techniques. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest is Deana Crider, a talented maker living in Elizabethton, TN. After learning to sew from her mother, she began selling her products at farmers' markets and craft shows in her area and has built up a devoted customer base. Deana shares with us her experience selling at markets and craft shows, how she determines what products to keep in inventory, and gives advice for sewists wanting to utilize these outlets as a way to sell their handmade items. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Our guests today are two members of the Mountain Brook Craft Cooperative located in northwest Montana. Carol Edgar is one of the founding members of the Cooperative and Sarah Anderson is the current president. (Sarah is also the author of the Spinner's Book of Yarn Designs by Storey Publishing.) The Cooperative formed 15 years ago as a way for its original five members to bring their products—quilts and other handmade items—to market. Since that time, the group has expanded to 19 members whose work covers a variety of media, including sewing and quilting, knitting, crocheting, painting, book art, and more. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Our guest today is Mari de Jesus, the driving force behind Project Dress a Girl. This annual September event encourages sewists to make simple but adorable dresses that are donated to girls living in poverty around the world. Mari talks about her own journey as a sewist and business owner, a YouTube content creator, and how Project Dress a Girl continues to grow every single year. Learn how you can become involved and make a difference in a young girl's life!

Send us feedback about this episode!September is National Sewing Month! Let's enjoy this month dedicated to our favorite hobby. Are you starting to feel inspired to sew by the change in seasons? We've had some cooler weather here in Montana and I am itching to get out my sweater knits and French terry fabrics. Let's talk about goals for the upcoming sewing season—bags, coats, quilts!—all the sewing!

Send us feedback about this episode!Part 2 of our series on sewing machine presser feet. We'll discuss the specialty feet that help you to do embroidery, free motion quilting, ruffling, and other fun techniques. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest is a young man from Canada who has channeled his passion for sewing into an entertaining and informative YouTube channel. Because of a childhood injury to one side of his body, Cornelius Quiring was inspired to begin making himself custom clothing. Along the way, he taught himself the fundamentals of pattern drafting and now wants to share that knowledge with his audience. Cornelius tackles everything from shirts to coats to pants, and even though he concentrates on menswear, the principles he covers are applicable to garments for many different kinds of bodies. Toward the end of the interview, Cornelius turned the tables and asked a few questions of your host. I think you'll find our discussion just as entertaining as Cornelius's YouTube channel. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Sewing machine presser feet are essential accessories that help control the fabric as you sew, ensuring precise stitching and consistent results. Each type of presser foot serves a specific purpose, such as the all-purpose foot for general sewing, the zipper foot for installing zippers, or the walking foot for handling multiple layers of fabric. Some presser feet, like the quarter-inch foot, are designed to sew accurate seam allowances. Others, like the embroidery foot, are tailored for decorative techniques. By choosing the correct presser feet for your project, you can customize your sewing machine to tackle a wide range of projects with ease and precision. 

Send us feedback about this episode!The podcast took a break last week while I was traveling. Come along as I recap my trip to Spokane, where I bought fabric and scored an almost-new serger for $13.99 at a thrift store. After coming home, I taught a few classes locally, picked up my new-to-me Bernina 880 sewing machine, and completely reorganized my sewing area. I'll also discuss plans for Year Two (already?) of the podcast. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Years ago, people sewed because they had to—either to have clothing to wear, to save money, or both. Now that sewing is no longer a necessity, it has blossomed into a billion-dollar industry providing nearly unlimited potential for creativity. Sewists can quilt, embroider by machine, make bags, sew custom clothing, and take advantage of social media to create new income streams. Why do YOU sew? 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest is Cheryl Espinosa, owner of the Etsy store Aunt Honey's Estate. Cheryl talks about how her love of vintage sewing patterns led to the creation of her business. Not only does she sell vintage patterns, she sews from them as well. For Cheryl, the appeal of vintage patterns lies in the details—the design lines and fine finishing techniques that are absent from many of our modern designs. She also shares some of her tips for incorporating vintage patterns into your own sewing practice. 

Send us feedback about this episode!My guest today is Ryliss Bod, owner and founder of the Sewing and Design School in Tacoma, Washington. Ryliss considers herself one of the luckiest people in the world. She was raised in a family where learning new skills—no matter your age—was valued and encouraged. She channeled her love of sewing into a career as part of the faculty of Bates Technical College. In 2012, she opened the Sewing and Design School and has inspired students to advance their skills through a variety of classes for all skill levels. In addition to the ongoing slate of classes, Ryliss also brings in instructors such as Kenneth D. King for special workshops throughout the year on pattern drafting and moulage making. I've taken a class from Ryliss and am registered for two more this fall. Come along and listen as I visit with Ryliss!

Send us feedback about this episode!Explore the intersection of sustainable fashion and artistic creativity with Kathleen McVeigh, a visionary who transforms vintage textiles into stunning contemporary clothing pieces. Kat, together with her husband Dale Donaldson, is the author of the new C&T Publishing release entitled Reclaimed Quilts, Sew Modern Clothing & Accessories from Vintage Textiles. In this episode, Kat shares her passion for giving new life to vintage textiles. From sourcing unique fabrics to the intricate process of designing and crafting each garment, hear about her philosophy on design and the ethics of repurposing vintage textiles. Gain insights into the challenges and rewards of sustainable fashion entrepreneurship, and explore the environmental and cultural impact of her work.

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's episode is a fascinating conversation with Anne Graham, a seasoned seamstress specializing in repairing clothing for Patagonia. Her work for Patagonia is a fulfilling second career that has taught her much about sewing, people, and sustainability. Anne discusses the challenges and joys of extending the lifespan of outdoor apparel, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste. Her insights into the techniques she employs, such as darning, patching, and innovative stitching methods, provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in Patagonia's mission to reduce its environmental footprint. Her passion for her work and dedication to quality craftsmanship offer a refreshing perspective on how small actions can lead to significant changes. 

Send us feedback about this episode!As a knitter, I was enchanted by the process of making knitted fabric—so much so that I often took a long time to complete a project. I would get sidetracked exploring different techniques. As a sewist, I'm exactly the opposite. Thrilled by the prospect of whipping out a piece of clothing in an afternoon, I am more about the product than the process. What's your maker personality type? Are you a process person, a product person, or a combination of the two? How can you shift your focus in one direction or the other? Let's talk about it. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Bad habits can get in the way of pleasurable sewing and lead to less-than-perfect results or even damage to our machines. In this episode, we'll talk about the bad sewing habits that we should strive to remove from our sewing practice, such as sewing over pins, not changing the needle regularly, and more. What are the bad sewing habits that you'd like to eliminate?

Send us feedback about this episode!Singer is, arguably, the most recognized brand in the world of sewing. In today's episode, we look at the man who bore that name—Isaac Merritt Singer—and how he came to be such an influence in the development of the sewing machine that we know today. Did you know that he fathered some two dozen children? Or that his first love wasn't invention, but acting? Listen and learn more!

Send us feedback about this episode!We sometimes forget that leather is a textile, and a wonderful material with which to create beautiful and functional items. Today's guest, Lisa Sorrell, of Sorrell Custom Boots in Guthrie, Oklahoma, has taken leatherwork to the next level with her designs. Lisa began making boots in 1996, custom fit and handcrafted for each client. Lisa's work has been featured in several books, numerous magazines, and the PBS series “Craft in America.” She is the recipient of numerous awards and the author of the book, "The Art of Leather Inlay and Overlay," published in 2015.  In this episode, Lisa talks about her journey to becoming a custom bookmaker and what needs to be done to save and pass on these specialized skills to future generations. 

Send us feedback about this episode!Today's guest, JoJo Beazel, saw the opportunity for a new business during the pandemic and took it. What started as a fascination with sewing machines in general morphed into a love of industrial sewing machines, and from there, into a thriving business refurbishing these old workhorses.  Seams Perfect Industrial and Vintage Sewing Machines in Fresno, CA, specializes in the restoration of industrial and commercial sewing machines. JoJo has a deep and abiding appreciation for these machines for their functionality as well as their artistic design. Join me for a conversation with JoJo about some of the machines that have graced the Seams Perfect workbench and how they have been restored to a useful life. 

Whitney Luckenbill is on a mission to empower sewists to make garments to fit their unique shapes. Her YouTube channel, TomKat Stitchery, features a wealth of information on color, style, fabrics, wardrobe planning, patterns, and more. I was fortunate enough to meet Whitney in person at Sew Expo in Puyallup, WA, in February. She is as much of a dynamo in real life as she is on her channel, and we made plans to sit down a few weeks later for an extended chat. Hear about Whitney's journey from financial analyst to mother of twins to YouTube content creator. Whitney has also launched a series of online classes on fitting and other topics. If you do any garment sewing, Whitney will help you level it up!

Social media is a two-edged sword. Negativity is everywhere, but the bright spots are waiting to be discovered. Today's guest is Tiffany Scherschel, whose YouTube channel Hoosier Handmade is one of my favorite follows. Tiffany loves to sew garments, and she brings a positive, can-do attitude to every project. She also understands the importance of community and works hard to make all of her viewers feel like they are part of hers. I look forward to her twice-weekly videos—on Tuesdays and Fridays—and getting to sit down and chat with her in person was like having a cup of tea with a dear friend. 

In this week's episode, we take a road trip to the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives in Butte, Montana. The Archives currently features an exhibit of vintage sewing machines from the collection of Virgil “Sarge” Sargent. The machines—from a late 1800s Willcox and Gibbs chainstitch machine all the way up to a 1960s Singer Rocketeer—detail the importance of sewing in this iconic western town, accompanied by a wealth of accessories, quilts, and vintage clothing from area collectors. Janet sat down for a lively conversation with the three organizers of the exhibit: Laura Sargent (Sarge's widow), Leslie Doyle, and Rose Brock. Come along as we explore the history of sewing in the wild west.