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
Loubodu Fabrics: free delivery for orders over £20
Crafty Sew and So: reduced postage at £2 for orders under £35 and free for orders over that amount
Pattern Emporium: get the latest pattern for free until 29 March
Dhurata Davies Sewing Patterns: 30% off paper patterns
Free sewing patterns: an updated list of free sewing patterns compiled by @sewstainability
Photo credit: Photo by Karly Santiago on Unsplash
