Roundup! What we’re working on now

In this special roundup episode of Seamwork Radio, hosts Sarai and Haley share what they're currently sewing, new things they're trying, and updates on the latest Seamwork releases. From birthday banners to smocked tops, plus insights on digital minimalism and outdoor grounding practices.

What Would You Sew: Film-Inspired Fashion

The hosts kicked off with a fun game about sewing garments inspired by films:

Sarai's Pick: "Stealing Beauty" (1990s)

• Bernardo Bertolucci film starring Liv Tyler and Jeremy Irons


• Features a gorgeous 1930s-style silk dress with ruffles and florals


• Ethereal, floaty design that belonged to the character's mother

Haley's Pick: "Romy and Michele's High School Reunion"

• Inspired by the campy, 90s clothing from their fictional store


• Plans to create a fun summer mini dress in that aesthetic


• A gift to her "childhood, young adolescent self"

Current Sewing Projects

Haley's Projects

• 
  Birthday Banner - Appliquéd "Happy Birthday Frankie" banner using 1930s quilting cottons from Mill End


• 
  Creating Birthday Heirlooms - Building a collection of reusable decorations for annual celebrations


• 
  Next Up: Mia Messenger Bag from Blackbird Fabrics in red (perfect "mom bag")

Sarai's Projects

• 
  Madhu Top - Featuring her first attempt at smocking


• 
  Everly Skirt - Cut out and ready to sew


• 
  Year-Long Quilt - One block per month to represent the whole year


• 
  Summer Plans - Reducing garment sewing to focus on home projects like a quilted shoe mat

New Things They're Trying

Sarai: Five-Minute Daily Decluttering

Inspired by Haley's tidiness habits, Sarai now sets a five-minute timer each morning to declutter her workspace:

• Decluttered desk and art supply shelves


• Organized boot tray and storage bins


• Creates a calmer, less overwhelming environment


• Building better tidying habits throughout the day

Haley: Daily Outdoor Time

Bookending each day with outdoor time for better mental health:

• 
  Morning: Walk within the first hour or hour and a half of waking


• 
  Evening: Time in the garden, even just sitting for five minutes


• Improved mental health, clarity, and focus


• Especially important for work-from-home lifestyle

Recommendations

Haley: "Cook This Book" by Molly Baz

• Former Bon Appétit contributor with fresh summer recipes


• Features creative ideas like a niçoise sandwich


• Perfect for picnics and outdoor dining

Sarai: "Digital Minimalism" by Cal Newport

A transformative book about reducing screen time and digital overwhelm:

• 30-day digital declutter challenge


• Clearer thinking and reduced distraction


• Using technology as a tool rather than entertainment


• Emphasizes the importance of making things with your hands


• Focus on being intentional about technology use

What's New at Seamwork

New Pattern Releases

Current Releases:

• 
  Lilac Dress - Slim-cut midi with loop buttonholes, bust gathers, and gathered cap sleeves


• 
  Mora Dress - Spaghetti strap design with seamed bodice, gathered skirt, and pockets

Coming Soon:

• 
  Citron Dress - Bodycon knit with built-in shelf bra and removable foam cups


• 
  Arbor Skirt - Semi-circle skirt with bound waistband (inspired by Gwyneth Paltrow in "The Talented Mr. Ripley")

New Content & Classes

• 
  YouTube Videos - Sarai's smocking journey and summer sewing plans


• 
  Latest Skill Workshop - Invisible Zippers (now available to all members)


• 
  Monthly Workshops - Skill-building for all levels