The Great British Sewing Bee!

Wow! The Great British Sewing Bee! Have you seen this show? It is sew much fun!

I was so intrigued by the buzz about this show a couple of weeks ago and couldn't wait to watch it. It is a BBC programme which means we can't watch in here in the USA, but you can find it on YouTube!!! Only two episodes have aired so far (out of 4) which means you still have time to get all caught up. Go find it!

I'm really into it probably because I would love to participate in a sewing bee just like this one! What I like best about it is that it is a competition among home sewers. The challenges are realistic and run at a good pace (at least compared to the pace of American TV shows). There is a pattern challenge, a quick 60 minute alteration, and construction of a garment fitted to a real live person. There are also tips and tricks explained throughout the show with great visuals. There is a quick how-to for the home segment so that you can try your hand at sewing too!

All of the sewers are fun and they all have their own special approach and uniqueness to the projects they make.

The judges are May Martin and Patrick Grant and the host is Claudia Winkleman (great name, yes!).

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A book that accompanies the TV show has been published and is available as well! Here's part of the book description: "Includes a number of designs from the TV series, technical know-how and insider sewing tips from the judges, this book will help the beginner achieve professional results." Isn't that what we're all looking for when we sew! I wonder if it's available in the USA or what the cost will be to get it shipped here?

Oh, I almost forgot to talk abou the sewing machines used on GBSB! They are the same machines that we use at Fancy Tiger for sewing instruction! These sewing machines are made by Janome and are hardworking, easy to use, and durable. The model is the Sewist 500 (the older model has gray accents, the newer green). If you are looking for a "good" machine, I highly recommend this one. It isn't computerized but it does make quality stitches, has a metal bobbin hook, and offers a nice variety of stitch options at a reasonable price. If you want to learn more about sewing machines, read my blog post entitled "Let's Start with Sewing Machines".

I encourage you to go watch The Great British Sewing Bee if sewing interests you (newbie or not) or if you just like to watch creative and skillful minds at work. AND, if you're interested in getting together to sew (and live in Denver), just let me know! We can start a sewing circle*!

*I was part of a sewing circle with friends for a couple of years but we haven't met for a while. I think it's time to get started again!