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In this episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, Gemma Daly interviews Rachel Bearn, who shares her journey into slow living and crafting whilst facing chronic illness.

Rachel discusses the healing power of handmade crafts, her commitment to sustainability, and the physical and mental health benefits of engaging in creative activities.

She also offers insights into managing crafting with chronic illness, her self-taught journey into sewing and knitting, and the positive impact of social media in the crafting community.

Rachel reveals her upcoming projects, including her first book that intertwines her faith with her crafting ethos.

Key Takeaways:

• Rachel's journey into slow living began following the diagnosis of a chronic illness.
• Crafting has been a healing process for Rachel.
• Sustainability is a core principle in Rachel's crafting ethos.
• Mental health benefits are linked to engaging in crafts.
• Setting a timer can help manage energy levels while crafting.
• Rachel emphasises the importance of using what you already have.
• Social media can be a positive space for crafters.
• Rachel's first book will be released in September.
• Crafting should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
• The crafting community on social media is supportive and inspiring.
• Choosing fabrics with ethical supply chains is challenging but important.

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Instagram: @thesewingsocialpod

@thedalythread

Guest details:

YouTube and Instagram: @byrachelbearn

Link to Rachel's new book preorder: A year to slow down

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0281091137?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_19WKG2W4E0TZQWG3557G&bestFormat=true

https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-year-to-slow-down/rachel-bearn/9780281091133

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Slow Living and Crafting

00:45 The Journey to Handmade and Homegrown Living

04:04 Sustainability in Crafting and Fashion

06:43 Mental Health Benefits of Crafting

09:08 Crafting with Chronic Illness

12:53 Self-Taught Crafting Journey

15:09 Releasing Patterns and Creative Inspiration

18:01 Kirsty's Handmade Christmas Experience

20:32 Fabric Preferences and Sustainability Challenges

25:10 Inspiration from the Sewing Community

28:36 Upcoming Projects and Book Release

29:49 Fun This or That Game