Our 2025 Sewcial Sewing retreat at the Rutherglen Convent was a weekend of sewing, shared meals, Christmas in July festivities, and plenty of laughter.

Sewing is full of essential techniques that can take your garments from “good enough” to truly professional — but they’re often skipped or left out of pattern instructions. In this post, I share five key steps that will strengthen your skills, save you frustration, and help you level up with every project.

Looking to buy fabric online in Australia? This guide rounds up 10 of the best online-only fabric stores—whether you're after eco-friendly options, deadstock gems, or Aussie-made prints.

Why are handmade clothes so hard to let go of? Explore the emotional side of sewing, the Ikea Effect, and why making things makes us more mindful.

Feeling low on energy? See how fabric scraps can become a low-pressure creative option—perfect for making simple wall art and a surprisingly mindful way to unwind and feel inspired again.

Discover talented independent sewing pattern designers from Australia and New Zealand. Support local creatives and find fresh indie patterns to inspire your next sewing project!

Discover the fascinating history of pockets and why sewists love adding them to everything. Learn about the rise, fall, and comeback of functional pockets in women’s fashion—and why pockets still matter today.

Wondering if you actually enjoy sewing? Explore the ups and downs of the sewing process—from creativity and inspiration to the stress of stitching—and why so many sewists keep coming back despite the challenges.