Hi Reader,

The Great British Sewing Bee is back on our screens (in the UK) with 12 new contestants.

Have you watched the first episode yet?

For me, the greatest take-away is fabric choice.

The weight, drape and weave of a fabric can make or break the success of your garment.

Picking something flimsy, thin and drapey may feel lovely but can be incredibly difficult to work with - it shifts about while you cut, pin and stitch it, it frays when you look at it, puckers under some basic sewing machines and don't get me started on unpicking!

My advice for any new garment you're trying out for the first time is to pick a stable cotton woven fabric. That way you get used to how the pattern pieces assemble and work up. It's also easier to make any fit adjustments at this stage.

You can also decide whether you even like the garment before making it up in your beautiful trickier drapey fabric.

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WANT THE SEWING BEE EXPERIENCE WITHOUT THE DRAMA?

We have something just for you!

Arrive every morning for 5 days to a fully equipped, beautiful sewing studio space in Reading and immerse yourself in sewing a pyjama set for yourself.

You'll be with up to 5 other sewing bees on the same pyjama making journey as you.

I'll be guiding you how to make fit adjustments to the pattern, finish seams beautifully, make piping, a collar and button stand and generally troubleshoot.

At the end of the 5 days you'll walk away with a beautifully made, perfectly fitting pyjamas.

Just bring the pattern (McCalls 8056), fabric and lunch. We'll supply everything else you need plus copious cups of tea and coffee.

Make a real sewing holiday of it and take advantage of Reading's many B&B and hotel options.