I'm Adele (@mama.loves.sewing) and I live in Leeds with my husband and 2 children aged 6 and 4. I'm a primary school teacher, marathon runner and obsessed amateur sewer! You might have seen me on The Great British Sewing Bee!
“There is no better feeling that someone complimenting you on a handmade outfit you're wearing!”
How did you first learn to sew?
My next door neighbour taught me to sew cross stitch when I was little because none of my family like sewing. I discovered sewing machines at high school and quickly fell in love with them. I was never shown how to sew clothes at school, so I didn't progress onto this until my little boy was born and I discovered YouTube video tutorials. I also bought my first overlocker during lockdown and that was a game changer! I'm a self taught sewer so I've made mistakes along the way but I always try to push myself.
What made you decide to apply for The Great British Sewing Bee, and how did you feel when you found out you’d made it onto the programme?
The Sewing Bee is my favourite TV programme, it inspired me to take up dressmaking. I always thought it would be so fun to have a go and challenge myself. I really wanted to meet Patrick and Esme too and thought it would be a great way to make new sewing friends.
What do you love most about sewing?
It relaxes me and I love the feeling at the end of the day when I've made myself a nice new top or dress to wear. There is no better feeling that someone complimenting you on a handmade outfit you're wearing!
What sewing skill did you find the hardest to master?
I was daunted by sewing fitted jeans at first, but now they are my favourite thing to sew. The trickiest bit is the zipper fly and then once that is done, it's really not that bad.
If you could take one Sewing Bee challenge home and make it again without the clock ticking, which would it be?
I'd love make the swim shorts pattern challenge again. I'm hoping they send us the pattern actually because my husband really likes them and wants a few more pairs. They fit him well, luckily!
What project or garment you’ve made is the most memorable to you?
I made my daughter's Christening gown and a little bonnet. I'll treasure it forever.
Did being on The Great British Sewing Bee change your sewing habits at home – are you quicker now, or have you gone in completely the opposite direction and enjoy taking your time?
I've always sewn quickly because I started sewing during my children's nap times, so time was limited. I always seem to be against the clock when sewing due to school runs etc so I'm used to sewing quite fast. I do enjoy not having a camera in my face all the time though!!
What was your favourite moment from The Great British Sewing Bee that viewers didn't necessarily get to see?
My favourite moment was winning Garment of the Week om Episode 2. My face said it all. I was so shocked, I thought I would pass out!
Of all the things you made on The Great British Sewing Bee, which one are you most likely to actually wear again?
Definitely my green outfit on Episode 2 and my strawberry dress from Episode 1. I've actually worn them both already!
What has the response been like since the programme aired? Has anything about it taken you by surprise?
Everyone has been so kind and supportive. It's really nerve wracking putting yourself out there and everyone has their own opinions etc. I've had people come up to me in the street and say that I've encouraged them to sew, which really warms my heart!
And what’s next for you? Has The Great British Sewing Bee opened up any new opportunities or made you think differently about where you’d like to take your sewing in the future?
I'm still teaching, but part time so I can see what other sewing opportunities might come my way. I'd love to do workshops or sewing socials, who knows! I'm excited for the future.
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