Reading Sewing Bee

I made these lovely pencil holders for my daughter's teachers. Aren't they adorable?

I took the pattern from one of our new books, "Fun sashiko accessories" but I was in too much of a hurry to actually sashiko them 🫣

But they were a very quick sew (15 minutes sewing plus probably 10 minutes cutting!) and I find the result very charming 💕

Come and flip through this book and all the others we have at Reading Sewing Bee and get super inspired for your summer sewing!!

This is today!!

Vee .lady is coming to Reading Sewing Bee to demonstrate the Lutterloh System, with which you can make perfectly fitting patterns in minutes!! It is honestly magical.

A couple of spaces have become available, so hurry and sign up! It's FREE!

From 5:30-7:00. Biscuits included! There, you've ran out of excuses, just come.

Something exciting is stitching its way to Reading Sewing Bee this summer!

We've got a secret promotion in the works, and we need your help to unravel the clues. ️‍♀️ Stay tuned for more hints over the next few days!

Slow Stitching & Connection: A Lovely Second Session at Reading Sewing Bee! ❤️

Last week, we kicked off our new Slow Stitching Group for parents of special needs children! This free, community project provides a space for creative support and relaxation through the art of slow stitching.

**And today, we had our second session!** Twelve amazing mothers came together to stitch small pieces using repurposed materials. These individual creations will eventually be sewn together to form a beautiful, collaborative artwork representing a "stitched path across a patchwork background."

The atmosphere was filled with lively conversation, creativity, and a sense of calm. Kathy Ross, our facilitator – an Arts Psychotherapist, textile artist, and SEN mum – shared her expertise and passion for slow stitching.

We're so happy to see this group flourishing and providing a space for connection and mindfulness for these incredible parents.

**Stay tuned for more updates on this project!**

**Swipe through the pictures to see some highlights from last week's session!** ➡️

And there are still some places available for future sessions, make sure to book on our website. (Free activity, but booking is required.)

Vee .lady did an mind-blowing demo on the Lutterloh Pattern System! She drafted a vest pattern for our model in less than 10 minutes, to her exact size!

No, there were no special effects involved and Harry Potter had left his wand at home. Unbelievable!

Next week's demo is full, but you might just as well sign up for Vee's full course, six weeks of drafting and sewing garments in your exact measurements. Yes, it's as good as it sounds!

Visit our website for dates and price, and just book your spot soon, because they are going fast.

I'm so chuffed with this lovely needle book I sashikoed and sewed 💕

Fuel Their Sewing Passion! Give them the gift of space and time! ✨

Stuck for the perfect gift for the sewing enthusiast in your life (or maybe even yourself)?

Look no further than Reading Sewing Bee's Gift Certificates! These certificates allow the recipient to unleash their creativity and work on their own exciting projects!

Here's what will make it special for them:

*Sewing sessions on the days that suit them: They can book their session during the morning or the afternoon on the days that work best.
*Full access to our equipment and facilities: Sewing machines, cutting tables, irons, dress forms, and more – everything they need to bring their projects to life!
*A supportive and inspiring space: They will enjoy the company of fellow sewing enthusiasts and talk about crafting for hours on end with people who are actually interested in hearing about it!

Plus, you get amazing savings!

5 Sessions for the price of 4!
10 Sessions for the price of 8!

The perfect gift for:

* Birthdays
* Holidays
* Special occasions
* Or just because you want to support their sewing journey!

Head over to the Reading Sewing Bee website** to purchase your gift certificate today!

Sashiko is Back by Popular Demand! ✨

Our Sashiko workshops were a stitch hit (pun intended!), and we're thrilled to bring them back for another round!

Did you miss out on the fun last time? Here's your chance to learn these beautiful Japanese embroidery techniques:

*~* Moyouzashi - 29th June: Learn the art of running stitch to create those captivating white-on-indigo geometric patterns we all admire. This workshop will teach you how you can transform everyday objects like bags and table runners into stunning works of art!

*~* Hitomezashi - 6th July: Discover the beauty of Hitomezashi Sashiko, a simple stitch that's perfect for visible mending and adding a touch of wabi-sabi charm to your favorite clothes. Get ready to transform snags and tears into artistic statements!

No prior experience necessary. All materials provided.

Bonus: Sign up for both workshops and save £10!

Space is limited! Head to our website to book your spot and discover the meditative joy of sashiko.

Reading Sewing Bee A sewing room for hire that offers a collaborative community for sewers and crafters to share their love of creating.

Inspired by Scrappy Bags on ? Dive into Our Fabric Treasure Trove!

Did you see last night's episode of The Great British Sewing Bee where the contestants whipped up stunning bags made with fabric scraps? 🪡

At Reading Sewing Bee, we have (literally) baskets of beautiful fabric scraps waiting for a creative spark! (See pic for a glimpse!)

Our free scrap bins are overflowing with a kaleidoscope of colors and textures – perfect for:

* Patchwork projects: Bags, quilts, pillows, and more!
* Embellishments: Add a touch of whimsy to your clothing or accessories.
* Practice projects: Experiment with new techniques without breaking the bank.

The possibilities are endless!

Come visit Reading Sewing Bee and let your creativity run wild with our free fabric scraps. We have everything you need to get started, including sewing machines, tools, and as much coffee and tea as your heart desires.

Don't let those scraps go to waste! Give them a new life and create something beautiful.

The Sewing Bee Buzz is Back!

The wait is finally over! Our popular craft clubs are buzzing back to life this week.

Ready to unleash your creativity and learn something new? Check out the image for all the details on dates and times! ➡️

Don't miss out on the fun! No need to book, just pop in and join us for a crafty adventure.



P.S. See you soon!

Hitomezashi Sashiko: Unleash Your Inner Mending Master!

Hitomezashi Sashiko isn't just about pretty patterns – it's a super-simple stitch that can turn mending into an art form! Forget the traditional indigo and white – we're digging into our fabric stash to revive the original spirit of sashiko: reinforcing and beautifying our clothes!

Get ready to:
*Transform snags and tears into stunning, visible repairs.
*Embrace the wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) of your favorite garments.
*Unlock the creative potential of everyday fabrics and threads.

This workshop is perfect for beginners and seasoned stitchers alike! Join us and breathe new life into your wardrobe with the magic of Hitomezashi Sashiko!

Anurita hard at work teaching how to mend clothes with lovely embroidery!

All set up for the Denim Recycling Demo at Style Revived in the Reading Water Fest at Forbury Gardens!

See you there!

Sewing on the Move!

We're closed at Reading Sewing Bee today! But don't worry, we're bringing the sewing fun to you!

Find us at Reading Water Fest in Forbury Gardens! Mara will be hosting a denim upcycling demo and teaching a denim mending with sashiko workshop, showing you how to give your old jeans a new lease on life. (Both activities are free!)

Come say hi, learn something new, and discover the joy of sustainable fashion!

Denim Delights: Upcycled Potters Apron at Water Fest!

This one's for all denim lovers and crafty creators!

This Reading Water Fest, we're celebrating sustainable style with "Give Your Old Denim a New Life!" ♻️

Join Mara for a fun demo showcasing even more ways to upcycle your jeans!

Bonus Project: Denim Potter's Apron! (See pic for inspiration!)

Transform an old denim skirt and jeans into a stylish and functional potter's apron! The skirt's existing buttons create the perfect opening for sitting at the pottery wheel, and the pockets provide room for storing tools.

This demo is perfect for everyone! Learn simple cutting, fraying, and basic sewing techniques to create this handy potters apron and many other projects.

Come and be inspired to make something special! Join us at the Reading Water Fest on June 8th (TOMORROW!) from 11:30 - 12:30 at Forbury Gardens.



See you there!

Dive into the Stunning World of Moyouzashi Sashiko!

Ever been mesmerized by those beautiful white-on-indigo sashiko patterns? That's Moyouzashi sashiko in action! Join us for an in-depth workshop where you'll learn the secrets of creating these captivating designs.

Get ready to:
*Master the art of running stitch to create geometric patterns and motifs.
*Transform everyday objects like bags, table runners, and cushion covers into stunning works of art.
*Embrace the tranquility of this meditative stitching technique.

No prior experience necessary! This workshop is perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of Japanese elegance to their home or wardrobe.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the beauty of Moyouzashi Sashiko!

Starting next week! Slow Stitch Group for Parents of Special Needs Children

Hey, you, SEN parent! Looking for a relaxing and creative outlet? Join our new Slow Stitch Group starting next week.

This group offers:

Creative support and a chance to connect with other parents.
Mindful stitching using simple techniques and repurposed materials.
A collaborative project where your individual pieces come together to create a beautiful artwork.
A guided experience led by Kathy Ross, an Arts Psychotherapist and textile artist.

This free, community project is perfect for everyone! No prior experience is needed – just a desire to relax and get creative.

Limited spots available! Book your place through our website to ensure refreshments and materials are ready.

Find out more: https://www.kathyartherapy.co.uk/ecoart.html

Dates: 14, 21, 28 June, 5 July

Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

We can't wait to welcome you!

Inspired by Vintage on ? We Have the Perfect Upcycle Project!

Did you catch last night's episode of The Great British Sewing Bee where the contestants transformed vintage tablecloths into stunning blouses?

At Reading Sewing Bee, you can create your own unique garment using upcycled textiles! ♻️

We have a treasure trove of FREE, vintage fabrics waiting for a new life:

Tablecloths: Like the ones on the show!
Curtains: Flowy and perfect for dresses or skirts.
Bedsheets: Soft and comfy for shirts or loungewear.
Duvet Covers: Bold prints for statement jackets or playful bags.

Ready to unleash your inner designer? Book a session at Reading Sewing Bee transform these vintage finds into something you'll love to wear!

Bonus! Did you spot the colourful thimble on the show? Did they remind you of something...? (See pic 2!) We were clearly a huge inspiration for the show 😂

Let's get creative and reuse textiles! Book your session today and start sewing your sustainable fashion story.

Denim Delights: Coasters, Hearts, & More at Water Fest! ❤️

This Reading Water Fest, we're celebrating sustainable style with "Give Your Old Denim a New Life!" ♻️

Join Mara for a fun demo showcasing a variety of ways to upcycle your jeans!

Get inspired by:

🥛Stylish denim coasters: Perfect for protecting your surfaces and adding a touch of denim charm.
💜 Adorable stuffed heart decorations: Spruce up your home décor with these sweet, heart-shaped creations.
👖 And more! Mara will share additional ideas for upcycling your denim treasures.

This demo is perfect for everyone! Learn simple cutting, fraying, and basic sewing techniques to create these charming denim delights (no prior sewing experience needed!) Lots of ideas for hand and machine sewing and even no-sew projects!

Come and make something special to take home! Join us at the Reading Water Fest on June 8th from 11:30 - 12:30.

P.S. Looking to take your denim upcycling a step further? Our free Sashiko visible mending workshop has limited spots remaining! Book yours now and discover the art of beautiful and sustainable denim repair: http://rdguk.info/d5s8B

Don't miss out on all the fun at Reading Water Fest! Check out the full festival brochure for more details. https://shorturl.at/9T3VJ



See you there!

Heads Up AGAIN! Craft Clubs on Hold This Week (But Water Fest Fun Awaits!)

Just a friendly reminder that our craft clubs will be on hold again this week for the following times:

Wednesday Afternoon
Thursday Evening
Friday Evening

However, the creative fun doesn't stop there! We're gearing up for the exciting Reading Water Fest on June 8th, and I'll be hosting free workshops – the perfect chance to unleash your creativity and learn something new!

Stay tuned for more details and announcements about the Water Fest workshops coming soon!

In the meantime, see you bright and early for the Friday Morning Craft Club!

Keep the Draft Out in Style! Upcycled Denim Draft Excluder

Are you a crafty coziness seekers! This Reading Water Fest, we're showcasing sustainable style with "Give Your Old Denim a New Life!" ♻️

Join Mara as she shows you how to transform old jeans into a functional and stylish striped draft excluder! (Peek the pic for some draft-busting inspiration!)

Did you know? Upcycling old denim is a great way to keep it out of landfills and create something beautiful for your home.

This project is perfect for everyone. Learn simple cutting, fraying, and basic sewing techniques to create this draft-busting buddy and any of the other dozen ideas that Mara will demonstrate.

Make your home cozy and sustainable this summer! See you this Saturday, June 8th, from 11:30 to 12:30! And check out all the other amazing things you can do at Reading Water Fest 2024: https://shorturl.at/9T3VJ



P.S. Stay tuned for one more exciting demo we'll be showcasing at Water Fest!

Embrace the Imperfections & Love Your Denim Again with Sashiko! ✨

This year-s Reading Water Fest theme is sustainable fashion, and how better to do it than by giving your favorite clothes a new lease on life!

Join Mara for a fun workshop: "Embrace the Imperfect: Denim Visible Mending with Sashiko!" (Check out the pic for some Sashiko inspiration!)

Bring a loved denim garment in need of repair (a hole, tear, or some wear and tear) – jeans, skirts, jackets, shirts – anything goes! (Don't worry, we'll also have denim scraps to practice on!) And leave the workshop with a repaired and revitalized garment you'll love wearing again, new skills and techniques to keep your clothes looking their best, and a newfound appreciation for imperfection and sustainable fashion.

This workshop is perfect for ages 16+! You'll learn:

The beauty of Sashiko stitching: a traditional Japanese technique for mending and embellishing fabrics.
Transforming imperfections into artistic statements.
Basic Sashiko stitches, easy to master for beginners.
Mending your denim garment using Sashiko for a unique and charming update.

Let's work together to give your clothes a second chance! Space is limited, so book your FREE spot at the Reading Water Fest now! ➡️ https://shorturl.at/vnAW9

And check out all the amazing things that will be happening this Saturday at the Reading Water Fest 2024! https://shorturl.at/9T3VJ

See you there!



P.S. Stay tuned for more exciting activities we'll be hosting at Water Fest!

Transform Old Jeans into Perfect Baskets!

Do you like to keep your things organised and are a big denim enthusiast? Keep reading!

This year's Reading Water Fest is all about sustainable style with "Give Your Old Denim a New Life!"

Join Mara as she shows you how to transform old jeans into these adorable denim baskets! (See the pic for cuteness overload!) Perfect for housing your favorite plants, odds and ends, or anything that needs a stylish storage solution.

Did you know? Making just one pair of jeans can have a big environmental impact. But by upcycling them, we can reduce waste and embrace sustainable fashion!

This demo is perfect for everyone! Learn simple cutting, fraying, and hand-stitching techniques to create these charming baskets and many other items for you and your house.

Join us at the Reading Water Fest on June 8th from 11:30 - 12:30! Let's keep denim out of landfills and add a touch of sustainable style to our lives!

And check out all the amazing things you can do this Saturday, 8th of June at Reading Water Fest 2024: https://shorturl.at/9T3VJ



P.S. Stay tuned for more exciting activities we'll be holding at Reading Water Fest!

♻️ Upcycle Your Denim & Give it New Life at Water Fest!

Are you an eco-warriors denim lover? This year we'll be taking part of the Reading Water Fest where we'll showcase the power of sustainable fashion!

Join Mara in her "Give Your Old Denim a New Life" demo where she will show you how you can easily transforms worn-out jeans into lots of amazing items for you, your house, or for a special someone.

Here is a skeak peek of this stylish and practical hanging organizer with lots of pockets!

Did you know? Making just one pair of jeans can use 10,000 litres of water and create tons of pollution. But by giving them a second chance, we can reduce waste and embrace sustainability!

This activity is perfect for everyone! Learn simple techniques like cutting, fraying, and sewing to create this handy organizer.

Join us at the Reading Water Fest on June 8th from 11:30 - 12:30! Let's work together to keep denim out of landfills and add sustainable style to our lives!

And check out all the fun things you will be able to do this year at Reading Water Fest! https://shorturl.at/9T3VJ



P.S. Stay tuned for other workshops we'll be holding at Water Fest!

Spotted Stretchy Fabrics on ? We Have Everything You Need!

Did you catch last night's episode of The Great British Sewing Bee where the contestants tackled stretchy fleece and made amazing sports outfits?

Sewing with knits and making activewear requires the right tools! Here at Reading Sewing Bee, we've got you covered:

🧵Coverstitch Machine: Creates clean, flat hems on activewear and knit garments.
🧵Overlocker (Serger): Joins seams with a professional finish, preventing fraying on stretchy fabrics.

And if these wonderful machines feel a bit intimidating, why not try the new Gutermann Maraflex Threads on a regular sewing machine on the zig zag stitch and even the straight stitch! They are engineered for stretch and recovery, ensuring your seams move with you.

Ready to get sewing with stretchy fabrics? Visit Reading Sewing Bee! We have all the supplies you need and expert advice to help you create your dream stretch and activewear pieces.

Heads Up! Craft Clubs on Hold This Week (But We're Headed to Water Fest!)

Just a quick heads-up that there will be no craft clubs this week on:

🪡Wednesday Afternoon
🪡Thursday Evening
🪡Friday Evening

because I'm busy planning some exciting things for the upcoming Reading Water Fest on 8th June!

Want to join the fun? I'll be hosting workshops at the festival - the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity and learn something new!

Stay tuned for more details and announcements about the Water Fest workshops!

In the meantime, see you bright and early for the Friday Morning Craft Club at 10:00!