Last Saturday, whilst most of Glasgow was basking in our first proper Spring weather, we were basking in the competitive atmosphere of The Stitchery's first ever Sewing Bee.
Each of our ten willing contestants was given 5 hours to complete their garment. And true to the BBC version of the Pattern Challenge, they arrived at our studio unaware that they would be making the Scout Tee, by Grainline Patterns. What they did know was that they were expected to bring 2 metres of dressmaking cotton and that they would each be given £25 to spend by our sponsor, Mandors Fabric Store.
As the sewing got underway, the concentration from our room of participants was almost palpable. Not surprising when you consider that first prize was a brand new Janome 9300DX overlocker. And as the hours ticked by, a sense of shared delight rose up: a studio full of people who love to sew. And everyone certainly loved the use of our brand new changing room!
Our panel of judges was comprised of Cassandra and Susie; two of our most experienced instructors. Both have commented that the standard was high and more difficult to judge than they had anticipated. Marks were awarded on fit, fabric choice, the quality of construction and the interpretation of the sewing pattern instructions.
In the end, it was Kirsten Anderson who won the day with her purple floral print Tee. Our judges struggled to find fault in Kirsten's garment and were particularly impressed with her seam finishes. Well done Kirsten!
Second place, and the prize of a mechanical Janome sewing machine went to Yvonne Bramma. And in third place, winning a £50 gift voucher, was Hazel Berryman.
Well done to all our sewers who took part in the Bee and we look forward to the next one!
