Get Ready for The Great British Sewing Bee 2023

Get ready to dust off your sewing machines and break out your favourite fabrics, because season 9 of BBC's  The Great British Sewing Bee is just around the corner! As one of the most beloved and inspiring sewing shows on television, The Great British Sewing Bee has captured the hearts of millions with its combination of creative challenges, expert judging, and heart-warming camaraderie between contestants.

A release date is has been confirmed for 24th May at 9pm on BBC One and we can expect even more stunning designs, jaw-dropping twists, and emotional moments as a new group of talented sewers compete to be crowned the next Great British Sewing Bee champion. Whether you're a seasoned sewer or a beginner looking to learn some new skills, this show is sure to delight and inspire. So grab your needles and thread, settle in with some tea and biscuits, and join us as we follow the journey of the contestants on the 2023 series.

Meet the new-Bees

We are so excited to see some familiar (and new) lovely faces this year on The Great British Sewing Bee.

From left to right your bees are; Maria, Tony W, Lauren, Lizzie, Vicki, Catherine, Fauve, Matthew, Gillie, Mia, Tony R, and Asmaa!

⁠⁠Image Credit: BBC/Love Productions/­James Stack

New to the Show?

If you have never seen the show before the format is a very familiar one...

Each episode features three different challenges, with the first one being a "pattern challenge" where the contestants are given a pattern and a set amount of time to create a garment using it. The second challenge is typically a "transformation challenge" where the contestants are given a specific item or theme and must transform it into a new, fashionable piece of clothing. Finally, the last challenge of each episode is the "made-to-measure challenge", where the sewers must create a garment from scratch, based on specific measurements and requirements.

Throughout the challenges, the contestants are judged by a couple of experts. In recent years this has been Patrick Grant and Esme Young. Patrick and Esme evaluate each garment based on its creativity, functionality, and overall design. At the end of each episode, one contestant is typically eliminated based on their performance, until there are only a few remaining finalists.

Patrick Grant Sewing Bee Judge	Sara Pascoe Sewing Bee Presenter	Esme Young Sewing Bee Judge

Previous Winners

Series 1 – 2013 Ann Rowley

Series 2 – 2014 Heather Jacks

Series 3 – 2015 Matt Chappie

Series 4 – 2016 Charlotte Newland

Series 5 – 2019 Juliet Uzor

Series 6 – 2020 Clare Bradley

Series 7 – 2021 Serena Baker

Series 8 – 2022 Annie Phillips

New to Sewing? Find some inspiration

The Sewing Bee is a cracking opportunity to get some inspiration for your home sewing projects. We love seeing fabrics that we stock used on the tele and are always quick to let you know what we recommend using in the projects you see every week.

We’ve got some simple tips if you are starting your sewing journey in time with the Sewing Bee;

1. Start with simple projects: If you're new to sewing, it's important to start with simple projects that match your skill level. The Great British Sewing Bee showcases a wide range of sewing projects, from basic alterations and repairs to intricate garment construction. Pay attention to the difficulty level of each project and choose projects that you feel comfortable tackling.
2. Practice, practice, practice: Sewing is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Set aside time to practice your sewing skills regularly, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. The more you sew, the more confident you'll become, and the easier it will be to tackle more complex projects.
3. Invest in quality tools and equipment: Good quality sewing tools and equipment can make a big difference in the quality of your sewing projects. Invest in a good quality sewing machine, sharp scissors, quality thread, and other basic tools that will make your sewing experience easier and more enjoyable.
4. Choose the right fabrics: The fabric you choose can have a big impact on the final look and feel of your sewing project. When buying fabric, pay attention to the fabric content, weight, and drape. Choose fabrics that match the requirements of your sewing project and that you feel comfortable working with.
5. Take your time and enjoy the process: Sewing can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby, but it's important to take your time and enjoy the process. Don't rush through your projects, and take the time to enjoy each step of the sewing process. Remember that mistakes and setbacks are a normal part of learning, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice when you need it.

Applications for Series 10 of BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee are currently open, so if you're interested in participating, now is the time to apply! Keep in mind that the deadline for applications is fast approaching: you'll need to submit your application by 8pm on Wednesday 17th May 2023 in order to be considered for the show. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to showcase your sewing skills and creativity on one of the most popular and beloved TV shows in the UK.

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