Stitch Please

Welcome back stitchers! We are sew excited to bring you a new tradition to the Stitch Please Podcast: Holiday Swatches. A fabric swatch is a small sample of fabric that allows you to visualize a project before cutting into yardage. Swatches are useful for sewing because they help us match fabrics, guide fabric prep, and prevent waste. Most importantly, if cultivated, swatches can become an archive of your creativity. This swatch series is here to celebrate the stitch please community by hearing from you all. For the month of December we will be sharing Holiday Sewing Traditions. In the final edition of 2023 we hear all about New Years Eve dresses, some adorable ideas for advent calendars (it's never to early to start!), the importance of a thoughtful gift and Eid! A special thank you to Ashley Chapman, Kya Lee, Ellie L, Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich and Zahiyya Abdul-Karim for sharing their stories this week!

Welcome back stitchers! We are sew excited to bring you a new tradition to the Stitch Please Podcast: Holiday Swatches. A fabric swatch is a small sample of fabric that allows you to visualize a project before cutting into yardage. Swatches are useful for sewing because they help us match fabrics, guide fabric prep, and prevent waste. Most importantly, if cultivated, swatches can become an archive of your creativity. This swatch series is here to celebrate the stitch please community by hearing from you all. For the month of December we will be sharing Holiday Sewing Traditions. From dance moms who are on the emergency stitch team (raise your hand if you've been there) to family sweaters, we have a great series of traditions this week. A special thank you to Neci Harmon, Aaronica Cole, Kristen Taylor, Tanisha Robertson and Jaszmine Howard for sharing their stories this week!

Welcome back stitchers! We are sew excited to bring you a new tradition to the Stitch Please Podcast: Holiday Swatches. A fabric swatch is a small sample of fabric that allows you to visualize a project before cutting into yardage. Swatches are useful for sewing because they help us match fabrics, guide fabric prep, and prevent waste. Most importantly, if cultivated, swatches can become an archive of your creativity. This swatch series is here to celebrate the stitch please community by hearing from you all. For the month of December we will be sharing Holiday Sewing Traditions.

Welcome back stitchers! We are sew excited to bring you a new tradition to the Stitch Please Podcast: Holiday Swatches. A fabric swatch is a small sample of fabric that allows you to visualize a project before cutting into yardage. Swatches are useful for sewing because they help us match fabrics, guide fabric prep, and prevent waste. Most importantly, if cultivated, swatches can become an archive of your creativity. This swatch series is here to celebrate the stitch please community by hearing from you all. For the month of December we will be sharing Holiday Sewing Traditions. From handbags to to scrap projects, new stitchers to the most skilled knitters, we have a great series of traditions this week. A special thank you to Jonelle Dawkins, Byrd Wadhams, Jamara Alexander, Stacie Sturdivant and DeJanee Kletke for sharing their stories this week!

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, Lisa welcomes Tiffany Turner, a talented sewist, to share her transformative journey into sewing. With a background in civil engineering, Tiffany approaches sewing with precision and relishes in its step-by-step nature, appreciating the nuances that make a garment special. She champions cost-effective sewing, laying the foundation for her blog and vibrant social media presence where she shares valuable insights and reviews.

Today, Lisa welcomes Grace Christopher, the creative genius behind African Zesty Couture. Grace shares her journey into sewing, which began as a way to keep her mind active after moving to the United States with her one-year-old child. From growing up in Nigeria to her aspiration to flood the streets with African prints, including Knit Ankara, Silk Adire, and Kampala, her dedication to empowering others to embrace and incorporate these fabrics into their own creations is testament to community. This conversation exemplifies the rich cultural tapestry that sewing can encompass and the potential for creativity to connect people across continents.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, we welcome back Aaronica B. Cole, a dynamic figure in the online sewing community. The episode highlights Aaronica's flourishing career, including a discussion of her designing ventures, family sewing, and her new podcast venture with Julian Collins. The discussion delves into Aaronica's Rustic Chic Thread Collection, a unique endeavor that blends solid and variegated threads, reflecting her innovative approach to sewing, in addition to exploring her Know Me pattern collection, emphasizing the importance of representation in fashion design. The conversation takes an insightful turn as they discuss the historical lack of inclusivity in fashion design knowledge systems and the need for a more inclusive approach. We discuss Aaronica's creation of a podcast, AudaSEWtea, alongside Julian, celebrating the rise of sewing-related podcasts. Aaronica shares her passion for this project, offering a platform for meaningful conversations within the sewing community. Overall, this episode is a celebration of Aaronica, a reflection on the need for diversity and inclusivity in the world of fashion, and an exciting introduction to Aaronica's new podcast venture.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, the Garment Girlies (TyJari, Aiysha, Byrd, DeJanee, LaShaun) of the Black Sewing Network come together for a heartfelt conversation regarding their experiences with sewing and the supportive and welcoming community of the Black Sewing Network. The discussion stresses the importance of embracing creative expression in an environment that embraces all participants as teachers and supportive community members. This welcoming community strongly encourages the idea of making patterns your own. The Garment Girlies have been brought together to help create a space with different channels and programs with the primary goal being to amplify and celebrate black voices in the sewing community while being an inclusive space that welcomes and supports all who participate! They advise taking breaks from social media when needed to avoid comparing your creations to others and encourage beginners to start where they are, reminding listeners that the community will provide a warm welcome and support you on your journey! This episode highlights the power of self-expression and the strength of community that the Black Sewing Network provides.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, we continue celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Black Sewing Network, by bringing in Black Sewing Network’s very own Bag Girlies (Nikki, Tanisha and Lanae). We dive into the enchanting world of sewing with a group of seasoned artists, listening as they recount the humble beginnings of their creative journeys, all rooted in the timeless art of sewing. Together, they unravel the secrets of their craft, offering glimpses into their creative process and revealing the magic behind their fabric choices. Tune in for valuable insights as they generously share their wisdom on sewing zippers into bags, making this once intimidating task feel approachable and achievable. As the episode unfolds, prepare to be inspired, as our artists offer their parting words of guidance, leaving you with a treasure trove of knowledge to fuel your own sewing adventures.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Black Sewing Network, by bringing in two very special guests: Brittanie and Shareesa (SheShe), sister sewists of Black Sewing Network. They delve into their unique journeys into the world of sewing and the aspirations that ignited their creative paths. Discover the profound philosophies and approaches they've embraced in their personal journeys of self-development. Lisa tantalizingly teases us with a sneak peek into her upcoming books, adding an exciting dimension to the conversation. The episode then takes a fascinating turn as Brittanie and SheShe uncover the rich narrative of the Black Sewing Network, shedding light on its remarkable story. As the episode draws to a close, these inspiring hosts leave listeners with their final words of wisdom, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the world of sewing and self-discovery.

Get ready to dive deep into the world of fashion design and find your inner artist! On this week's episode of Stitch Please, we're joined by the incredibly talented Sahara Clemons. Fresh off presenting her latest collection at New York Fashion Week, Sahara --a recent graduate of RISD -- gives us an intimate look behind the seams of her creative process. Through vivid storytelling, Sahara walks us through how she transformed her personal experiences with eczema into a stunning five-piece collection entitled "Skin Deep." We learn about her inspirations, from oceanic textures to 1940s swimwear, and how she brought her vision to life through illustrations, textile manipulations, and custom fabric dyeing. The passion Sahara has for using fashion as a means of self-exploration and community building is truly inspiring. She shares valuable insights on embracing imperfection, finding beauty in the little things, and having the courage to bring your imaginary projects to reality. Whether you're an aspiring designer or just looking to reconnect with your own creativity, you'll find immense inspiration in Sahara's words. So get ready to immerse yourself in a world of breathtaking artistry and deep personal meaning. Let Sahara's wisdom wash over you like the tranquil tide and awaken your inner artist. The countdown to Stitch Please begins now...are you ready to take the plunge?

Join Lisa as she shares her fall sewing plans and pattern wishlist for 2023! Despite breaking her ankle in a backyard mishap, Lisa is eager to create a stylish fall wardrobe that will work with her medical boot and accommodate limited mobility. On her pattern wishlist are comfortable knits like Simplicity 8982, a trendy KnowMe 2046 combo dress/tunic/pant set, and the elegant Vogue 1940 dramatic sleeves. She'll also try extending a Vogue button-front shirtdress into a tunic to wear with leggings and boots. Lisa dishes on her trick for customizing tricky commercial patterns designed for non-curvy figures, her aversion to most dress pockets, and why she may forego zippers in super stretchy knits. She'll also chat about beautiful wide leg pants from Mimi G's new Simplicity pattern that could accommodate her boot. Join the fun fabric chatter and wardrobe planning for fall - a great transitional sewing season! Lisa shares why she loves sewing with quilting cottons, stable wovens, linen blends, and more. Tune in for all the pattern wishlist details, sewing motivation, and wardrobe visions that will help you get your stitch together.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast we are celebrating our 200th episode with Bisa Butler, a talented textile artist schooling us in the beautiful intricacies of Black possibility. Bisa’s work showcases historical images of Black life from the early 20th century in a multisensory format, incorporating fabrics, the feeling of the music that she’s listening to as she creates, and playlists that accompany her art to make that experience accessible to the viewer. Bisa shares the inspiration, techniques, and meaning behind some of Lisa’s favorite pieces, along with what she hopes to communicate through her art and the material of the fabric itself. They discuss why the missing piece in Ken’s wardrobe was a pair of tweed pants, their experiences as children seeing moments captured in black and white photography and film, and what it meant as a Black artist to study at Howard University, the alma mater of legendary geniuses like Zora Neale Hurston and Toni Morrison. PATREON SUPPORTERS get video access to this beautiful and powerful episode.

This VERY special episode is a remarkable interview with renowned quilter Chawne Kimber at the Sew Black space at QuiltCon 2023. Lisa and Chawne discuss her background in mathematics and how quilting became a creative escape and way to process current events, like with her iconic "I Miss Barack Obama (I Miss Hope)" quilt. Chawne shares stories about being featured in a Scholastic book, having her work acquired by the Renwick Museum, and having her quilts studied in a PhD dissertation. As quilting gains popularity online, she strives to maintain a balance between aesthetic beauty and activist messaging in her quilts. Chawne closes by emphasizing the importance of self-care and supporting groups that empower Black quilters. Tune in to this rich conversation that explores Chawne Kimber's quilting journey and the power of stitching for self-expression and social change.

This episode of the Stitch Please podcast features Naomi Johnson as host interviewing guest Rashida Coleman Hale and Lisa, live at the Modern Quilt Guild's 10th anniversary QuiltCon event in Atlanta. Lisa explains her motivation for attending QuiltCon for the first time and shares her excitement over the increased representation of Black women and Black-owned businesses at the event. Rashida discusses debuting her new fabric line and the emotional experience of seeing Black women wearing and excited about her fabrics. The hosts share their "fangirl" moments meeting renowned Black quilters like Latifah Saafir in person. They also discuss Lisa's intentionality about who she chooses to collaborate with for Black Women Stitch projects, and her realization that suffering through unpaid work would not dismantle capitalism or white supremacy - but taking resources to support Black women's crafts could. The hosts and Rashida share advice on self-care and "getting your stitch together" during difficult times. The episode celebrates community, ancestral crafts, collaboration, and joyful spaces for Black women quilters.

In this special "Sew Black at Quiltcon" episode of the "Black Women Stitch" podcast, host Lisa Woolfork invites us into the textured narratives of Black heritage with her guests Sarah Bond and e bond. Sarah shares her poignant journey of collaboration; connecting with living family members like e bond, and also honoring the powerful legacies of ancestral women, such as Lavinia, her great-great-grandmother born into slavery in 1858, and Jane, born in 1828. Through the art of quilting, both navigate visual and auditory dialogues, reflecting on the essence of Black aliveness in a world that often places demands on Black identity. Highlighted in the episode is the Lavinia Unbound quilt, as well as e bond's "Glyphs" collection, an ode to sci-fi genius, Octavia Butler. The episode's pinnacle is the discussion of an 1870s basket quilt, capturing the spirit and audacity of Black women. A heartfelt acknowledgment to the sponsors and listeners underscores the importance of these narratives. Support their continuing journey on Patreon.

Dive into the vibrant tapestry of Black sewing culture with this Sew Black episode. Recorded live at QuiltCon in Atlanta, this epic conversation with Nikki Griffin, Bianca Springer, and Sara Trail helps you get your stitch together. Explore Bianca's inspiring journey from injury to creating a celebrated embroidery book, uncover Nikki Griffin's relentless passion for Atlanta's unique sewing style, and grasp the transformative power of quilting Sara Trail mobilizes for social justice and community building. With discussion of breaking traditional quilting norms and opportunities for mentorship, this episode is a testament to the ingenuity, passion, and creative skill within the Black sewing community. Support and share.

In this very special episode of the Stitch Please podcast, Lisa chats with Queen and J. from the Tea with Queen and J. podcast about their first time attending the Essence festival in New Orleans, which is not only the largest Black-organized festival but the largest festival of any kind in the United States. They talk about its reputation for being an ‘Auntie Con’ and how events can be more intergenerational and welcoming to members of the queer community, musical performances by Janelle Monae, Megan Thee Stallion, and Jill Scott, and surprising moments of community care. Queen and J. discuss their own role in building Black community through events like #PodinLiveNYC and organizing a Juneteenth celebration geared towards a younger demographic, sweet dinner, and sea oysters, and they have an important conversation about why there is always room for more voices and more stories.

In today’s episode, Jennifer Oldham of @herhoopdreams shares her unconventional sewing story–because even though she’s found a way to be creative with a needle, thread, and fabric, her sewing machine still lives in her closet most days! Jennifer talks about how an unexpected gift got her into embroidery, where she finds inspiration, and how discovering this creative outlet has taught her about her own learning process and expressing herself. Lisa and Jennifer discuss the therapeutic aspects of sewing, setting boundaries, creating for yourself, and the importance of making time for play!

Uzoma Samuel Anyanwu is a visual and fiber artist from a family of creatives. His mother is a fashion designer and his sisters are tailors. In this episode, he talks with Lisa about his creative process of working with fabric from all over the world, how it can teach us to live peacefully with each other, and how his photography techniques complement his painting projects.

Today’s episode features Ella Clausen, who began sewing just a few years ago but gained a following when she shared her creatively engineered process of designing her own wedding dress on her blog, The Handmade Millennial. Ella talks about the roots of her sewing journey and its relationship to her Blackness, how it has allowed her to reach other people in her community and lineage, and find a connection with her sewist grandmother even though they never had the opportunity to meet.

Janet Hensell, also known as Miss J Sews, joins us this week from London, England! She shares her sewing story, starting with the clothes her mother taught her to make for her dolls and then for herself, going from being teased as a child for wearing handmade clothes to a following of admirers of her me-made garments. A life-long learner who uses her vacation time to take courses on pattern cutting, Janet talks about the inspiration behind her newly released debut pattern, London Reign, a smart dress with a statement sleeve. Check the show notes for an exclusive discount code for Stitch Please listeners.

Robyn Burgess saw her impact in fostering consumerism as a digital marketer working with Neiman Marcus and fast fashion brands, and when she left that job she made a pledge to herself that for the next year, she would make any clothes she needed herself rather than buying more. In today’s podcast, she talks about how she went from intimidation of her sewing machine to teaching a beginners sewing course on Skillshare with everything she wished she knew when she started.

Lisa is joined by home sewist and content creator Sasha Black (@sashasews) who shares how she sewed her first dress with her sister’s sewing machine (she asked permission first!) which… fell apart in the wash before she could wear it. After watching some more tutorials, getting some advice from the sewing community, and taking out her measuring tape, Sasha began to develop her skills to make clothes that would last. She discusses how that grew into a following on social media, the choice between keeping something you love as a hobby and turning it into a career, and being true to yourself and your own style.

In this week’s episode, Lisa is joined by three founding members of the Black Sewing Network to learn about their process for creating their own costumes for Beyonce’s Renaissance Tour. Julian Collins, Carmen Green, and Terrance Williams have done powerful work in the sewing community to change culture, lives, make demands, and step forward to create a space that is more loving, more inclusive, and more in line with what it means to be a free people. Their community shares ideas, resources, and an appreciation for Beyonce, and today they share how anyone can create a Beyonce-worthy costume whether you’ve been sewing Beyonce designs since 2010 like Carmen, will be center stage as a VIP like Terrance, attending your very first concert like Julian, or singing along at home on the livestream with your friends. This is the summer of fun and acceptance, your chance to celebrate you and your uniqueness and be proud of who you are.

Nikki Brooks quit her well-paying corporate job to pursue sewing and blogging because corporate filled her bank account, not her soul and spirit. In this episode, she talks to Lisa Woolfork about her sewing story, starting her blog after her mom died, and why it is important to trust yourself and the journey. She also describes her creative process, turning complex tasks into simple ones, tips for summer sewing, and why it is important to create patterns for all people and body types.

In today’s episode Lisa is joined by Queenora Irvin and Janine Lecour, the makers of Black Magic Leopard. Black Magic Leopard is an amazing fabric that looks like leopard print from a distance, but when you get close up, it is actually images of Black folks in natural hairstyles. It was designed by two Black women: Queenora who saw an optical illusion, and Janine who made that optical illusion into reality. They discuss the creative process, collaboration with other artists, and seeing a project through from the initial idea to the response from the community it was made for.

Welcome to an exhilarating episode of the Stitch Please podcast, recorded live at the Modern Quilt Guild's 2023 QuiltCon in Atlanta, GA. In this electrifying conversation, Lisa talks with Janine Lecour, a remarkable surface pattern designer. Bursting with creativity, Janine's journey as an artist takes center stage. Janine shares her captivating story. From her early days as an artsy kid to her pursuit of design at the renowned Savannah College of Art and Design, her passion for the creative arts has always been her driving force. With boundless enthusiasm, she ventured into the world of design, eager to explore the endless possibilities that awaited her. Throughout her artistic process, Janine’s unwavering determination leads her to unexpected ventures, such as digitizing patterns for an Italian company and eventually delving into the design of scarves. Though lacking extensive experience, Janine fearlessly experiments, learning and growing through trial and error, and discovering the liberating nature of digital design.

Get ready to meet the dynamic father-daughter duo of Michael and Ava Gardner as they chat with Lisa Woolfork about their children's book, Daddy Dressed Me. With Michael's creative flair and Ava's keen sense of style, they've teamed up to create a delightful tale that celebrates their shared passion for fashion and family. From Michael's expertly crafted garments that boost Ava's confidence to Ava's heartfelt appreciation for her dad's many stunning designs, this book is a beautiful tribute to their bond. Join them as they share their journey of learning, growing, and having fun together through the ups and downs of sewing. It's a story that's sure to inspire and uplift!

Porfiria Gomez’s sewing story begins in childhood and blooms when she starts her blog. In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, Porfiria shares how she believes in creating community; whether of moms or sewists. Porfiria talks about her blog, upcoming book, quilt projects, and finding joy in quilting while living a whole life. Porfiria also highlights that she got into modern quilting to rewrite misconceptions.

In this engaging interview between Lisa and Martha for the Stitch Please podcast, they dive into Martha's sewing journey and how it all began. Martha shares her frustration with the limited options and high prices of plus-size clothing, which ultimately led her to purchase a sewing machine and embark on a path of creating her own outfits. The conversation delves into the biases and challenges faced by plus-size individuals in the fashion industry, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and representation within the sewing community. As Martha is an avid traveler, they explore how she incorporates her handmade garments into her vacation wardrobe. Martha discusses her approach to planning outfits based on themes and occasions, and the intention behind her fabric choices. She values fabrics that are stretchy, easy to pack, and quick to dry. Lisa acknowledges Martha's ability to confidently wear her creations, becoming a possibility model for others. Throughout the conversation, Martha shares meaningful moments when fellow sewists have admired her me-made outfits and expressed a desire to create their own. The discussion highlights the joy, empowerment, and self-expression that come from wearing clothes that make you feel good. The interview concludes with Martha reflecting on a recent trip where she packed a whole cube of me-made clothes that didn't even get opened, showcasing her extensive collection of handmade garments. This captivating interview invites listeners to delve into Martha's sewing journey, her passion for travel, and the positive impact of self-made clothing on confidence and personal style.

This week, Natasha Henry (The TellTale Tasha) shares her inspiring story with us. Her passion for sewing began when she wanted to alter her clothes after losing weight and not having the budget to buy new ones. In this episode, Tasha talks about the intersection of dance and sewing in her life, the influence of her trip to Panama and her Panamanian heritage on her creativity, and the intricate details of her gorgeous New York Frocktail dress. Throughout her journey, Tasha discovered her creative process and how sewing gives her the clarity she needs to achieve her goals. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passions and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

Join host Lisa Woolfork as she talks with Danielle Pierce, the founder of African Stretch Fabrics, on the latest episode of the Stitch Please podcast. Danielle shares her family's sewing history, starting from her grandfather's tailoring shop in Arkansas in 1924, where her passion for sewing began. Lisa and Danielle discuss the significance of representation and the unique challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs. The episode includes personal stories and anecdotes, such as a captivating black-and-white photo of a protest in front of Danielle's grandfather's tailor shop in Memphis, reminding us of the importance of Black-owned businesses in the community. The conversation also unveils the first-ever pre-order for African Stretch Fabrics in cotton spandex, exclusively designed for the needs of sewists. But hurry, May 23 is the last day to place your pre-order.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Celeste Nicole talks about her senior experience at Parsons School of Design, what she is working on and how she has found the perfect space in fashion and art to be herself and find her purpose. She talks about how she got involved with the Changemakers program by Gucci, the making of her thesis and her brand new baby, “American Dream”, her collection that is inspired by how she feels as a person of color in the fashion world.

Amina Coleman’s grandmother has been instrumental in her artistic journey. She has supported all her forms of art, from sewing to crocheting. In this episode, she talks to Lisa Woolfork about her sewing background, her influences on getting where she is, her big hair chop, and how her new project, weave(ings), is interconnected with hair. She also talks about how her art school experience in high school prepared her for the arts, in university, and on her journey, and finally, what influences her art.

Losing weight following a depressive episode, Shorti J decided to learn sewing since she could not replace all her clothes. In this episode, Shorti J explains to Lisa how she uses art as an outlet. She also discusses her creative vision in poetry, fashion, and photography. She also highlights her thrifting process and giving what it means to give new life to old textiles.

Jaimie’s creative vision was shaped by growing up in Zimbabwe where she learned how to sew by hand before transitioning to machine sewing. In this episode, Lisa talks with Jaimie about her sewing story and her motivation after walking into a party and finding someone in a dress similar to hers. She details shoe-making, making her own clothes, and extending her creative vision.

This episode of the Stitch Please podcast, Lisa talks about spring cleaning our sewing spaces. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of your sewing area, take a deep breath - this episode is gonna help you get your stitch together. We're discussing the three categories of work that Lisa thinks can help you transform your space from cluttered and chaotic to organized and inspiring.

In this episode, Lisa talks about her family's tradition of Easter sewing and her love for creating matchy-matchy outfits. She also shares the three patterns she will be using for her spring sewing projects and the fabric she chose for them. She explains the features and benefits of Simplicity 8753, a pattern she has been using for her family's shirts for six years, and how she preserves it for future use. Learn about new things on the horizon including a newsletter and a sewalong with Julian Collins.

In this episode of the Stitch Please podcast, host Lisa Woolfork talks to Cecily Habimana, co-owner of Sew Creative Lounge, about the upcoming Sew Much Soul Quilting Conference. The conference, which will take place from April 14 to 17, 2023 will feature highly-skilled and professional sewing and quilting educators who will be teaching for free. Cecily explains that the conference was started in 2021 as a way to bring together the sewing and quilting communities in a virtual space during the pandemic. The conference is now in its fourth edition and has become a much-anticipated event for the community. The episode also features some of the instructors who will be teaching at the conference, including Lisa Shepard Stewart, Carol Gary Staples and Janet Green. Lisa will be teaching a class on creating a magic nine patch clutch, while Carol will be teaching a class on making scrappy Black girl magic. Janet Green explains how students in her class with learn that improvisation is a synonym for "play" and that perfectionism is a fallacy. Cecily also talks about the energy and attention to detail that goes into organizing a conference like So Much Soul, especially when it is held virtually. Throughout the episode, Lisa and Cecily discuss their experiences at other quilting conferences, including QuiltCon, which they both attended recently in Atlanta, Georgia. They also talk about the importance of bringing together Black communities within the sewing and quilting world, and the benefits of learning from different perspectives and techniques. Overall, the episode is a great preview of what attendees can expect at the Sew Much Soul Quilting Conference, and a celebration of our diversity and creativity.

Latrice Sampson Richards is an amazing creative who has produced three live shows for the Stitch Please podcast. Lisa sits down with Latrice to talk about what it means to "produce" a podcast, the types of skills required, and some of favorite things about the job. We'll also hear her thoughts about her VERY FIRST QUILTCON and what it's like to hang out with quilters and sewists from the other side of the microphone.

How can Simone Elizabeth Saunders find a reflection of black women from the past decades? In this episode, she talks to Lisa Woolfork about her artwork, how her school training shaped her, and how she honors people who came before her through art. They also highlight why her work has blown up, especially in relation to the BLM movement and how the two are in harmony. Finally, she talks about showcasing her work at the Claire Oliver Gallery.

In this episode, the mother-daughter duo, Janda Lipker, and Rebecca Christian-Lipker talk to Lisa about their sewing story, and sewing during the pandemic. After picking up sewing during the pandemic, Rebecca highlights working on the Henry Box Brown quilt, their working dynamics, and how they communicate about the history and using their quilts.

Valerie Goodwin picked up sewing as a 10-year-old from her cousin Hardy, but later stopped due to peer pressure in high school. In this episode, she details her sewing journey, her evolution from traditional quilting techniques to modern techniques, and her teaching methodologies. She also highlights the importance of perseverance, why it is important to make mistakes, and what she is currently working on.

QUILTCON STARTS TOMORROW! Special thanks to Bonita Nance and Sarah Bond for sharing their Road to QuiltCon stories in this episode. Today’s guest will hit the ground running! She's teaching a class tomorrow at 1:30 and FIVE more classes throughout the weekend. Geraldine Wilkins is the genius behind Living Water Quilts. In this episode, Geraldine takes us through her transition from a national photographer to quilting. She also highlights how the skills she developed as a photojournalist have come in handy in the quilting field. She also shares the lessons she has carried from her photojournalism career. Tune in for Geraldine’s insights about teaching, building a studio, and the new Sister quilt project she’s demonstrating at the Sew Creative Lounge QuiltCon booth this weekend.

QUILTCON IS NEXT WEEK!! Today, we are speaking with QuiltCon 2023 lecturer Sandra Lee Chandler. A quilter, designer, and BERNINA ambassador, Sandra learned sewing and quilting from her teacher in seventh grade. Later as a university student, Sandra decided to get an undergraduate degree in the same field that had long intrigued her. In this episode, she talks to Lisa about her sewing journey, lessons she learned from Arizona State University, and why it is essential to understand the value of our craft. Sandra also highlights her excitement about Quiltcon, especially since it’s happening during Black History month.

QUILTCON is less than TWO WEEKS AWAY! We are fortunate to speak with quilt innovator and QuiltCon 2023 lecturer Carole Lyles Shaw. She loves to inspire quilters to explore the fun and creative freedom of making modern quilts. A previous guest on the show, Carole returns to speak with Lisa about modern quilting and what it borrows from traditional quilting. She shares her modern quilting expertise and discusses quilt emerging trends. Listen to learn about Carole's exciting 2023 class lineup and how she will help you get your STASH together at QuiltCon.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Stacey Watson talks about how she has made history very black by teaching it differently to her students. She is redefining what it means to teach history both in the classroom and in the gallery. Stacey wants you not only to understand the how but the why, the who, and the where to not only memorize history but be part of it. Stacey talks us through the detective method that she applies with her students, her work, and exhibitions at The National Quilt Museum. Her exhibition “Say Your Piece- Black Women: Mothers, Martyrs, and Misunderstood" is the first installation of the Say Your Piece three-part series. It has been described as “a visual journey that includes a combination of symbolism and inspiration attached to the African diaspora, heightening our sense of cultural awareness. It is a unique experience as it provides the artists an opportunity to display what speaks to them, to you, to us.” The exhibit closes on February 21st.

Carol Crocker Ware has been sewing for more than 23 years. She has developed couture level skills in that time. Now she shares specialized knowledge generously with both new and experienced sewists. In this episode of Stitch Please, she talks to Lisa about her journey in sewing. Hear how sewing a robe for her son led Carol on this journey. Find out how she is able to keep her enthusiasm and fire alive. She also highlights her Facebook group, how she is able to run it, and her collaboration with Janome.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Carmen Green talks about her Black Sewing Network on TikTok and how it has become much more than a sewing space, especially for Black women. Carmen tells us how she had navigated the difficulties of growing and building a community on TikTok, the effort and love that she puts into her Network for it to be a space to which people want to return again and again, and really how to thrive into a social media algorithm that isn't really designed for Black people.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lenmarie Paschall talks about her creative journey having switched careers from a financial analyst to making pillows. Despite having a mean sewing teacher while young, it didn't deter her from tapping into her creativity and venturing into sewing and even launching her business, Rest by Len!

Happy 2023! This first episode of 2023 celebrates in a "sankofa" spirit. Sankofa is a word of the Akan people of Ghana, meaning "to go back and get it" in the Twi language. The retrieval concept is symbolized by interlocking hearts or a bird with her feet facing forward but her head turned backward and carrying an egg in her beak. Today's episode will look back on 2022. Lisa will share a few revelations that will shape how she approaches 2023.

Since we’re coming back until January, during December you will listen to a special edition of this podcast: “Stitching Holiday Traditions” which are first-person stories from women in the Black Women Stitch sewing community who are sharing their stories about their unique family traditions. In this episode, you will hear the story of Kamali Obiagu, how she has decided to incorporate her African traditions into Christmas and celebrate Kwanzaa, how her creativity and crafts incorporate into this holiday season, and the meaning that it has not only for her but her family as well.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Florence Taylor talks about what Christmas means to her, her family, and the people she loves. Having picked up this tradition from her parents, she hopes to impart to her children that Christmas is a time of love and filling people’s cups.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Martha McIntosh talks about her Christmas traditions as a Garifuna woman, what she learned from her parents and how she hopes to transfer these traditions to her kids. She also mentions the Garifuna tradition's influence on her sewing and how she incorporates color.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Vanessa Martina talks about Christmas in the Netherlands, fireworks, and the dangers they have brought to the Netherlands. She also narrates about Sinterklass and why her family doesn’t celebrate it, her childhood Christmas experience, and why her best Christmases were at her grandmother’s.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lena King talks about her holiday traditions and how her mom has influenced her. She highlights her favorite activities to do during the holidays, wrapping Christmas presents in scraps and cuts, and traditions she has brought along with her from her mother.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Alexandria Eregbu talks about the intersection between social justice and art, teaching sewing in art school, and how she is using artwork to empower young girls and boys in school. She talks about her project ‘Finding Ijeoma’ and what it meant to her and collaborating with different deejays to see it come alive.

It's that time of year when we center and celebrate Black creative businesses. Blacker Friday shines a spotlight on Black creator/entrepreneurs. Listen to the episode to help you get ready for the busiest shopping season of the year. When you support Black owned businesses, you're doing more than getting a high quality product or service. You are also helping to close the racial wealth gap and build economic equity. Support Black owned businesses this weekend and make Black Friday a BLACKER Friday.

It's Fat Quarter time, and there's nothing like a little inspired shift to bring new energy to the creative environment. Learn how Lisa got her inner librarian on while taking her organization to the next level. With procraftination in the rear-view mirror, Lisa shares a small but significant change that led to a fabulous, functional and remarkably effortless transformation. Experience with Lisa the sheer pleasure and invigoration fueled by a little sewing room genius, and find out the secret element to this blissful new sewing ecosystem.

In this episode of Stitch Please, LaTisha Porter delves into her sewing story and her love for fashion, which has been with her for a long time. She talks about her work, balancing between sewing and fabric business, the sewing scene in Philly, how to overcome the anxiety of sewing for other people, and the story of her company, NicoleElise.

In this episode of Stitch Please, which is a collaboration with the Asian Sewist Collective, Lisa Woolfork, Nicole Angeline, and Ada Chen (hosts of Asian Sewist Collective) talk to Jen Hewett about her work in print, how she got there, and what inspired her to call herself a textile artist. The trio talks about believing in one's voice, fully owning one’s craft, the inspiration behind Jen’s book, and what next to expect from her (Jen Hewett).

While Kia does not do what she does for recognition, she is happy that brands are starting to recognize her work. In this episode of Stitch Please, she talks to Lisa Woolfork about getting into cosplay, meeting her husband at a cosplay event, and having a cosplay-themed wedding. She also gives insights into cos-fashion and her newest collaboration with Zelouf fabrics.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa and Sarah talk about how Sarah got started sewing journey and how being diagnosed with lupus nephritis inspired her to create and stay focused on the journey. She started sewing as a creative outlet since she could do sitting down. Her diagnosis of the disease was tough on her, but she didn’t let it define her and continued to pursue her creativity as an artist and went ahead to make her grandma a Bridgerton Ball gown.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa and Shasta delve into historical costuming and her journey in creating pieces from the 16th century. Shasta talks about her journey in historical costuming and how she was unaware that cosplay has a negative connotation. While she has lots of inspiration, her interest in art museums has been instrumental in her work. Shasta also talks about finding her community in costuming and the challenges she has experienced while making garments.

Episode Summary: In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa and Serena talk about Serena’s vintage style, how she got into it, and the inspiration behind her transformation. Serena describes her style and practice, what inspires her to create her pieces, and her favorite style in the vintage decade. Finally, she talks about the people who inspire her and who she hopes to inspire through her pieces.

In this episode, Lisa kicks off the 4th quarter of the year! And YOU are invited to celebrate! We are turning from National Sewing Month, which featured Black women writers of sewing, craft, and historical fiction for young readers. Next up is BLACKTOBER! And there are COSTUMES GALORE! And if you're a Patreon supporter you get to see them for yourself. We also learn about the ways that the Black Women Stitch Patreon contributes to the larger Black creative community. Please consider writing 5-star reviews of the podcast, joining or sharing the Black Women Stitch Patreon goal of 500 subscribers by the end of 2022, or downloading a few episodes to help the podcast cross the 500k benchmark.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Olugbemisola talks about her childhood and how growing up with black dolls shaped her journey in affirming herself and the people around her. Olugbemisola talks about her book Mae Makes A Way: The True Story of Mae Reeves, Hat, and History Maker and highlights what she hopes to achieve by inspiring and amplifying black people’s voices. Finally, she takes us through her connection between sewing and writing and the process of narrating an audiobook.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa Woolfork talks to Hekima Hapa and Lesley Ware about what led them to write their book, Black Girls Sew, and how it came to be. In the book, they highlight the importance of textile history, how it is tied to Black ancestry, and their inspiration in bringing it into the book. They highlight their fashion and cultural knowledge and how the two come together. Finally, Lesley and Hekima share the lessons they learned while writing the book, especially during the pandemic, and what they hope their audience will get from their creative collaboration.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Bianca Springer talks about her new book: Represent! Embroidery, and why is it so special and representative of different bodies, hairstyles, and personalities. Bianca tells us how she has developed professionally by writing down her designs and patterns on her blog and in different magazines, how tough it was to launch her book, and how she has acted within the industry in an unapologetic way honoring herself and her values. Her main invitation is to play, have fun and be intentional on every stitch.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa and Tracy talk about Tracy’s journey into doll making and being a seamstress at a young age. Tracy first started with sculpture dolls, then later transitioned to cloth dolls. They delve into the different types of dolls and what her experience at the button-jointed experience taught her. Finally, Tracy highlights the process behind her doll-making process and what goes into choosing the personality, shape, outfit, and character.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Lisa and Chris Cooper talk about her sewing journey and how the unclothed dolls that her sister brought home from work sparked her interest in sewing and taught her how to sew.  She continued sewing and later found a mentor who taught her costuming and couture clothing as she built her clientele. Chris highlights her journey running Studio Tissue8 and how she uses her gift of sewing to help others benefit from it through her workshop. Black Women Stitch Patreon bonus includes video and story about One Bride, One Ceremony, FIVE wedding dresses.

In this episode of  Stitch Please, Lisa talks with Teju Adisa Ferrar about her journey into the textile industry and how her grandmother shaped her worldview regarding waste. Throughout the episode, Teju and Lisa talk about how Teju’s essay “My Grandmother’s Hands” and how her grandmother impacted her outlook on sustainability and creativity. Teju talks about geography and brings to light how important it is to understand the history of textiles we use. Teju also explains how geography is connected to material culture. She shares how nature itself resisted colonialism in the case of the Jamaican lacebark tree.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Angela Franklin talks about her sewing journey and how her adaptability in finding fabric in different areas has molded her into the artist she is today. Angela also highlights studying art at Xavier University of Cincinnati and gives a brief history of slavery and black history in reference to the Ohio/Kentucky border. Finally, she talks about the stained glass initiative and how it was established to institutionalize racial repair.

In this episode Lisa flies solo, granting listeners a comprehensive view of her management system for fabric acquisitions while practicing creative accountability.  Channel your inner librarian as Lisa unveils tried and true methods that distinguish hoarding from collecting and enable her to move with finesse through important decisions related to her fabric family- critical considerations given Lisa's two favorite "F"s!

In this midsummer episode, settle in as Black Women Stitch takes a detour to quaint Rahway, NJ.  Resourceful and creative as always, Lisa punctuates a hot and arduous road trip with a welcome treat reconnecting her with a special member of the sewing family, Lisa Shepard Steward, and the richness of Lisa's shop, Cultured Expressions. With cool mango water at the door, jelly rolls of gorgeous Ankara fabric and an enticing preview of Lisa Shepard Stewart's upcoming Philadelphia area "Sewjourn," not only is the refreshment palpable, but serendipity strikes when a sewing project underway receives the pop of vibrancy and texture it deserves.

In this episode of  Stitch Please, Marcia Spencer takes us through how she started her sewing journey at a young age, as started sewing together pieces for her Barbie doll, and her mother taught her the basics of stitching together. As she got older, she started learning the patterns and taught herself to read them and make staff on her own. Marcia Spencer takes us through her fashion transitions from making children's clothing to bags and ultimately to high street fashion and all the driving factors that led her there. She also highlights her inspiration for creating a piece and its versatility.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Mahdiyyah Muhammad tells us a little bit of her story and how she got to be a designer and fashion visionary. She talks about how her childhood and especially her mom helped her construct her vision of the world and how she wanted to orientate fashion, how she got to combine fashion, teaching, and community building by taking discarded materials and textiles to make beautiful and innovative pieces. She is not only invested in making fashion look good but in making you feel good with it.

In this episode of Stitch Please, Stephanie Dean tells us a little bit of her story and how she got to make black dolls with colorful and beautiful dresses and then fund her own entrepreneurship through Cinnamon Annie Dolls. She talks about how difficult it was to get a doll that looked similar to her during her childhood, how her mother influenced Stephanie’s self-image, and how she started to get involved in making black dolls that little girls could identify with. Stephanie always seeks for Cinnamon Annie Dolls to combine the nostalgia of classic dolls with the modern styling that a contemporary little girl would like.

Dr. Sharbreon Plummer is a textile artist, scholar, researcher, and a newly minted Ph.D. She shares insight into how she's been able to build a vocation from what some would consider an avocation. From inheriting an old seafoam green sewing machine from her great-grandmother to what the different modalities of sewing and crafting reveal about the lives of Black women and their practices, Dr. Plummer shares her thoughts on how sewing, stitching, and textile art shows up in the world of academia. And learn more about STITCH X STITCH a conference Dr. Plummer is co-organizing on the connections between needlearts and liberation, specifically in the context of prison abolition and justice work. Spoiler alert: Lisa will be there!

Join the adventure of this first of its kind travel sewing series where Lisa and podcast guest, Deborah Boone, sit down for an in-the-flesh conversation in Deborah’s beautiful shop, Our Fabric Stash, located in Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Deborah shares how personal life change created room to explore a life- long curiosity about sewing and to manifest a vibrant business, shining light on issues of sustainability while honoring legacy. FInd out why Lisa’s jaw drops at Deborah’s first sewing project and how African Samurai cleverly transforms into Sexy Black Jedi- this and more. All set against the hustle and bustle of a live marketplace backdrop, this is a show not to be missed.

Jonelle Dawkins is a sewer, environmentalist, and the Executive Director of Scraplanta, a creative rescue center for the Atlanta creative community. Jonelle is joining the Stitch Please podcast to share her creative journey, from choosing sewing as her childhood hobby to getting a degree in fashion merchandising. This opened up the conversation as we talked about the socio-cultural influences of fashion, building sustainable sewing practices, and what the idea of creative reuse means. We also touch on how her travels influenced her sewing and career trajectory, how she became active in the cosplay scene, and why Scraplanta is meant to be a place for people to come together over their love for art and advocacy for more sustainable sewing practices. She also expanded on why you don’t have to choose between being a sustainable sewer or someone who is deeply creative and experimental, or a cosplayer–you can be all of those things at once. This episode is a conversation around sustainability, environmental justice, and creatively creating in a way that reduces the impact on the planet.

Laquana Drayton is a previous fashion blogger, a sewist, and now the owner of Blue Cup Shop, a PDF pattern printing company that serves high-quality solutions for customers. Laquana is joining the Stitch Please podcast to share her unique sewing journey and how she uses her extraordinary skills to enhance her life. This opened up the conversation as we talked about finding clothes that fit her body, being delivered from fast fashion, and why she decided to stop outsourcing her alterations and learn to do it herself. We also touch on how Hancock’s going-out-of-business sale launched her into the sewing world and how she went from newbie to winning a Pattern Review contest and getting featured in a magazine. She also expanded on how Blue Cup Shop started, why she embraces the boutique service model and uses her customer-focused business to help the sewing community. This episode is a beautiful conversation around evolution, growth, and opportunities that come if you’re open and willing to receive.