Great British Sewing Bee Episode 2: Rucksacks and Swimsuits

Following on from the first episode, we've had lots of chat in the shop about the Great British Sewing Bee this week. So many people feel a warmth and understanding... we love to see our people on the screen. We enjoyed watching episode two last night... Jen and I were sharing thoughts on chat whilst the show was on... good to have a natter and a gossip! Let's take a look at our top product picks inspired by last nights episode.

It was the Travel Episode, so they made a rucksack first. A roll-top backpack with two shoulder straps and webbing and clip closure. There was also a zip front pocket. It was good to see a bag being sewn up, the first for the show, and we know that so many of our customers enjoy the satisfaction and challenges of bag making, from simple totes (a great very first sewing project) through to the most complex belt and braces hold all.

Challenge one was the rucksack. We love bag making at Backstitch, and we know that many of you do too. We have a good selection of bag patterns, and bag hardware. Many of our fabrics, such as denim, and drill is great for making bags as well as dressmaking, and let's not forget the webbing, including that rainbow webbing!

Challenge three in this episode, the big challenge, was swimsuits, and we loved seeing the guys make swimwear. There was a good selection of styles, with one piece swimming costumes, and bikinis. We saw costumes with sleeves and belts, ruffles and skirts. I made my first costume during lock down, a two piece, and was pleasantly surprised how achievable the task was. If you are inspired to try making your own swimming costume, check out the patterns we have in stock and we have the suitable haberdashery too.