The Sewing Bee effect
Series 12 of The Great British Sewing Bee started on BBC One in July 2026, with judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young and new host Sophie Willan. Past series are on BBC iPlayer, and they are a great way to learn techniques by watching.
The starter kit
- A reliable sewing machine (see below).
- Fabric shears, snips and a seam ripper.
- Pins, a tape measure and tailor’s chalk.
- Good all-purpose thread and spare needles.
- An iron. Pressing is half of sewing.
First projects
- A tote bag (straight seams).
- A cushion cover with an envelope back.
- An elastic-waist skirt or pyjama bottoms.
- A simple top in stable woven cotton.
Learn the techniques
- Sewing a straight seam with a consistent seam allowance.
- Pressing seams open and to one side.
- Finishing edges with zigzag or an overlocker.
- Inserting a zip and sewing a buttonhole.
- Reading a pattern and cutting on grain.
Where to learn
- Community and adult education classes.
- Sewing cafés and workshops at independent fabric shops.
- Online tutorials and pattern sew-alongs.
- Friends and family: many of the best sewers learned at home.
Reading a sewing pattern
Patterns list fabric suggestions, notions and yardage on the envelope or first page. Inside are pattern pieces with grainlines, notches and markings. Measure yourself and choose your size from the body measurement chart, not your shop size.
Building confidence
Pick projects slightly harder than the last one. Keep a notebook of what worked. And don’t fear the seam ripper: unpicking is part of sewing, as every Sewing Bee contestant knows.
Choosing your first fabric
Medium-weight woven cotton is the friendliest choice. It doesn’t slip or stretch and presses well. Save jersey, silk and velvet for later projects. See our fabric guide.
Your first machine
Choose a simple, well-supported machine, new or serviced used. Our buyer’s guide walks you through it. In Leicester, PK Sewing Machines can show you machines in person. Leicester’s textile heritage makes it a fitting place to start.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
