Sewcial distancing: how stitchers are giving each other a boost during the coronavirus outbreak

Sewcial distancing: how stitchers are giving each other a boost during the coronavirus outbreak

It’s been lovely to see so many makers and small businesses offering kindness and distractions at this strange time. They’re sharing all sorts from online tutorials to discounts and virtual parties. Have a peek below to see what’s on offer. I hope you get a little boost from them.

If you’re able to, why not support an indie business or two, many of whom are finding things a little trickier than usual at the moment. Grab yourself a treat, send a gift to a friend, or spread the word about these offers and events.

Is there anything I should add to this list? Let me know by emailing kate@inahaystack.co.uk. Enjoy!

Virtual events

Sewing-themed pub quiz: a live stream from @almondrock_sews

Virtual Frocktails: a showcase of handmade outfits (with a drink in hand!) hosted by @sew_scottish

Norwich Sewcials Retreat: a virtual sewing retreat between 4 – 5 April hosted by @norwichsewcials

London Stitchers’ Virtual Meetup: sew together online on 25 April with @londonstitchersmeetup

Daily Distraction: lunchtime videos about colour and style from @hocadelemartin

Learning opportunities

School of Stitched Textiles: free online course in mindful stitch techniques

The Thrifty Stitcher: a free learn to sew course from the woman behind the Great British Sewing Bee. There’s also a free scarf tutorial on Claire-Louise’s IGTV.

Alice and Co Patterns: upcoming online pattern cutting courses

Made My Wardrobe: ad hoc online sewing tutorials for Lydia’s patterns

The Stitch Sisters: three free ‘quick-make’ classes are free and all other online classes are half price

Cocowawa Crafts: virtual sewing classes via Skype and patterns on sale

Sew Over It: live sewalongs on YouTube including a chat feature

Community support

Pipedream patterns: 20% off sewing patterns with code ceilidh and 50% of each sale donated to a local food bank

1st for Fabrics: reduced price for polycotton to help customers respond to the appeal for polycotton scrubs

In a Haystack: 20% of the price of your digital sewing pack donated to Southwark Foodbank when you sign up in March

Weekly small business support: Kate from @stitchmeayear is choosing one small sewing business to support each week through giveaways and more

Discounts and freebies

Opian Geneve: 20% off anything in the shop with code MAISON