Coffee and Catch Up - Where Have I Been?

[@patriciaweekes258]

I totally agree with you about the knicker pattern from Tilly. So glad you talked about this. I’ll try the stevie thankyou Rachel. Yes please knicker tutorial. Xx

[@clairec20]

Thank you for your honesty regarding knicker problems , 😊💕

[@seaside2001]

Glad to hear my favourite sewing girls, savaged by their cats, are better, and back to sewing. Your top is really cute. Love your choice of fabric. When we wore the vests in the 1970's with corduroy jeans, the vests were more fitted and most often worn with a turtle neck. So these are similar but different as you say. I had a couple as I remember, and one being in a houndstooth pattern. I have made undies very successfully, but cutting apart a pair that fit me well, trace out a pattern. Fits every time. No fuss or fiddling. For the price of an expensive pattern, one can sacrifice a pair of undies that cost less, and you know they will fit.

[@thebikerwhosews111]

So lovely to catch up on all your news whilst I’ve been sewing tonight😊you’ve definitely been missed😘

[@heathermayfield4247]

Tank tops - that's a blast from the past..... great to catch up, thanks for all your content I much appreciate it. I really agree re wearing what we sew -one of the great joys of sewing.

[@sarahguthrie9989]

Thank goodness you're back Rachel, I'll look forward to watching tomorrow morning, you're the best x

[@salliecook7528]

I am so happy that you are back and all is well. I know how hard it is to see our little birds flying away and becoming more independent. I also really appreciate you talking about knickers. We are all built so differently and yet all the same if you know what I mean. I would love to have a tutorial and or, a sew-along. It would be great. It has been many years since I have made any undergarments. You are such a delight and your vlogs immensely. Thanks for sharing your lovely life with us.

[@janerichardson7858]

My favourite knicker pattern is the Evie la Luve Maxine free pattern. They are the same as her new one 😉

[@texasproud8822]

Love your knicker solution. I 100% agree with breathable and I always wear white cotton for golf especially when it’s hot and humid.

[@sueb4919]

Yes please for the tutorial! And I would definitely wear sharks!!

[@judithaltoft4690]

Yes would like a turorial on knickers, great video, thanks x

[@suzyq1874]

Really enjoyed your chat Rachel and glad you’re back! Been there with the empty nest and the room decorating-it’s cathartic. Cat story very funny glad you’re ok. Knitting… yes! You inspired me to knit again after 30 years when I saw your lemon whitmoor sweater in the spring. Loved it and am on my second now. Look forward to the tank. Looks fab xx

[@Ohcarol912]

Yeah!!!!!! how lovely to see you, wish I had a sewing friend not so sure about running tho 😊

[@loriannpayne4483]

A tank top to me is a U-Neck/sleeveless T-shirt weight top. I love the sweater vest that you’re thinking of making. I’m delighted that you had a wonderful holiday in Cornwall. I quite often wear a dress at home. I don’t even own sweatpants/joggers! I do wear jeans though. Those last two Pound Fabrics are great for joggers and hoodies! Perfect for you with your running..

[@louiselill1528]

Love the top you made and the knickers look good well done

[@vernabohnert635]

You are so much fun! Did a great job on the knickers 😋

[@newcreations1064]

Lovely to see you back after your jollies, i am a winter knitter as well,just started back on a sleeveless sweater for hubby that i started last winter. Knickers knickers everywhere,lol.I am going to take the plunge,being a fluffy girl of 75,i am looking for the right pattern to start me off. Love the fabrics for the joggers.Hugs Jean.x

[@russellgilham5436]

Hi Rachel, lovely to see you back. Looking forward to seeing your lookbook. 😀 Caroline R-G

[@linvin18]

Know exactly what you mean about the 'pouch' Ive had 2 caesarean sections and a hyterectomy so mine is proper horrid. Must have a go at making knickers so yes please a tutorial would be great. You have cheered me up gonight Rachel, family problems dragging me down, so thank you, really enjoyed the vlog x

[@cornbreadfedkirkpatrick9647]

My mom had that pouch, she had 5 kids ouch.

[@michellem3899]

I hope your days get better Linda!

[@linvin18]

@@michellem3899 Thank you 💕

[@kimkennedy90]

Great to see you back. I know how you feel when your children fly the nest. I have three children who have all now left home. Two have finished university and one is still there. It did not get any easier as each left. In fact it was hardest when the youngest left because I was thinking that's it they are all gone. On the sewing front I am on a quest to make the perfect fit (for me) knickers. Like you I hate it when they don't cover your cheeks 😄.

[@craftymystic4868]

Rachel, to get my magic knicker pattern, copied a RTW that fit well, worked for me. Even though you didn’t pay for the pattern. Minerva has some decorative fold over elastic that is soft and matte. I have a scar too, and even picot elastic too much for over the scar. (No kids, but scar used twice)

[@peggydid]

So good to see you, Rachel! You're a scream! "Had to make a new toiletry bag!" It's simply adorable! (Thanks for the encouragement to make knickers! The last ones I bought have the seams so uncomfortable that I have to wear them wrong side out!)

[@k.s.1737]

Thank you for sharing your secrets with us. :)

[@Sewsew60]

Glad you’re back, you’re such a tonic!

[@cecilehoare3053]

Welcome to the Empty Nester's club! It's an adjustment for sure but once you get on with it you will enjoy it!! Then most likely he'll come home for a bit before finding the job he really wants. When mine were in university but out of the dorms we moved the majority of their things with them in the event they moved else where after school. Worked with one, but not the other! lol I tried but what can you do! lol Now for me to get over the saving items for grandchildren...who knows when or if that will happen!

[@gillianchatterton6376]

Love the hair, Rachel! It suits you. X

[@joanneblair2087]

I am happy to hear I am not the only woman with that pouch. I had my last baby at 42 and it has driven me crazy ever since. PS. I took and old pair of knickers that I liked the fit of and made a pattern from that.

[@aninehartog3950]

Must have a go at making knickers so yes please a tutorial would be great.

[@angelabanks2431]

Lovely to see you back Rachel and love those fabrics! Looking forward to seeing your makes 🙂

[@patshaw4922]

I thought I recognised that parcel. I had one de,Ive red from pound fabrics the other day. They are in my neck of the woods. Like you I stopped buying from them as a lot of their fabrics were too cheap. But I love what I’ve just received, gorgeous fleece with scotty dog prints to make my cocker spaniel a new bed and some fantastic sweatshirting fabric for me. Happy sewing 👍

[@Leemar9]

Great to see you back Rachel. I've missed your vlogs. They are always so packed with sewing info. I poured a cuppa for myself and really enjoyed the chat. Must have a go at making knickers, something I never thought of,, but a great way to use up scraps! Thanks again for your bubbliness (is that a word?), and for all the inspiration you give to us sewers 👏

[@sallyriley8408]

Love how happy you are with your shark knicks! 🦈

[@sheelaghheugh9152]

Would love to see a sew-along for knickers want to make some myself - similar fit issues

[@ElaineR66]

Lovely to see you back 😊. Yes.....why not a tutorial of knicker making!! I’ve noticed on Instagram lots of knicker sewing but thought that I wouldn’t bother but you’ve got me interested now. I’m also going to have a look on Pound Fabrics this afternoon. There could be money spent!

[@letitiathomson914]

Hi Rachel, It’s good to see you back again. I just love your knitting pattern, it’s put me in the mood for knitting but unfortunately I’ll have to wait months before I can think of starting one. I live in Western Australia and we’re coming into spring so there’s no way I will knit during our warm summer. Don’t forget to let us see yours when you finish it. You’ll get used to your empty nest, it might take a while but you’ll eventually enjoy it.🇦🇺

[@carolinestewart7694]

Got that pouch too, after 2 LSCS. You're right no amount of exercise will shift it. Love those knickers Rachel😀

[@cr8tivecarbaholic]

We call those a sweater vest here in Texas. Its beautiful! Love that little bag! Glad you had fun on your trip. It is hard sending kids off on their own. I have sent 3 off in 3 years. I have one at home for another 2 years. I can't imagine not having kids at home.

[@denisedavies4602]

I was going to add a comment about 'why would you sew knickers, just buy them.. ' but as a knitter who loves knitting socks I've had the same type of comment 🤣🤣 good to see you back!

[@michellem3899]

Everyone needs shark knickers! I am so glad things are going well with your son at Uni. I also sleep in a tank and undies. Can’t stand things twisted around when I am sleeping!

[@StitchedUp]

That’s it exactly! I hate having things all twisted in bed it’s annoying and wakes me up and I get too cold to sleep naked

[@michellem3899]

@@StitchedUp same!!!

[@Barneysma]

Thank you for being so honest about the effects of a c section. I have had a c section, hysterectomy and emergency vertical laparascopy, result - ruined tummy that will never be flat again. My OH says the scars are marks of courage, which helps me feel better about them. Glad Isaac is doing so well, it’s surprising how quickly time goes, he will soon be back for the Christmas holidays. Xx

[@susanstaley6408]

So good to hear and see you back. You have been really missed! Here in Australia we are in lockdown again……in the past 18 months we are now in our 7th lockdown, totalling 270 days!!! My sewing has kept me going, even challenging myself with some new techniques and more involved patterns. I can lose myself in my sewing and forget briefly about what’s going on in our world. Thank you for sharing all that you do. I so much enjoy watching your vlogs. God bless 🌻

[@vivhoworth1158]

Glad all is well. I love pond fabrics. Their linen is fab

[@floosyfox5125]

So glad you are OK - had started to worry. Once you have gotten used to the house being just the two of you, you will really start to enjoy it. Doesn't mean you have not treasured the time with your children at home, simply that you are entering a new, exciting chapter, as are they. The fabric was lovely - the cherry swimwear just made me glad inside :)

[@heatherpenman3906]

Hello from N Z - nice to see you back and looking forward to seeing your holiday wardrobe and your other makes 🧵

[@christinemartin9449]

So pleased to see you back. i have followed you for a long time and you feel like a friend so I was concerned that you were not around. It is a long time ago that my son went off to university but remember it well! I really like your hair shorter but I know it doesn't matter what anyone else says, if you are not happy with your hair, you will never be comfortable with it. i have been neurotic about my hair all my life! Thanks for doing these videos and hopefully, see you soon.

[@yvonnejenkins8549]

So lovely to see you Rachel and to know you are OK despite the empty house. I remember when our sons left home for university, takes some getting used to. Love your holiday capsule wardrobe and your hair. X

[@christineallen162]

Lovely to see you back, missed your vlogs they brighten my days and I like your hair. Also would be super to see a knicker tutorial they aways seem a difficult sew to me. xx

[@annwilson4160]

I would love to see the knicker tutorial

[@gabistephens]

Yeey glad you’re back! I never turned back after making my own undies

[@karenlowes7802]

Happy to see you back! ☺

[@jillm8484]

Thank you for the nice vlog Rachael. Glad you had a relaxing holiday. Great to see you back vlogging and sewing.

[@poshandpecks16]

So glad you back. Love your hair and look forward to your makes vlog x

[@janetyler1642]

So nice to catch up with all your news and pleased you had a lovely holiday. I’m sure it was hard to see Isaac leave but glad you are feeling better about it. I am already getting anxious about my only child leaving in 2 years! Thanks for sharing your knickers and making me feel better about my C-section pouch 😃 I have tried 3 undies patterns and still not found the perfect fit yet! Love the new fabrics and look forward to seeing the cherry 🍒 swimsuit.

[@ruthlanwarne8978]

Niectiseevyou back Rachel. I’m glad you had a lovely holiday. I would be interested in a knicker tutorial as have fancied making some but have never settled on a pattern. I have quite a lot of scraps which are large enough for several pairs. I did wonder about making children’s ones actually as tend to mostly wear nude underwear myself but your shark ones are very cute and fun. I haven’t been sewing much but just finished a Jarrah sweatshirt which has come up really large. I’ve just cut out a Billie dress in french terry today but need to find something else for the pockets! I really only had enough for a top but decided to go with the dress at the last minute. Many thanks 😃

[@cliffe02]

Hi Rachel, your hair looks lovely and it suits you! Really nice to see you again. Jane. Xx

[@annewalker3747]

Lovely to see you back Rachel

[@louisecampbell8094]

Hi Rachel it’s great your back… I totally agree with about the pouch I have one and hate it too so I was so pleased you discussed this and found some knickers that help disguise it thank you. A see along would be great. Thanks for cheering me up on this cold night xx

[@st4y-c4lm44]

Glad to see you back.

[@sharonhart5874]

Squealed when I saw you are back. Love your new hair.

[@nevaolaughlin6866]

I would LOVE a tutorial on knickers!!

[@annadossantosdavid6495]

Hi Rachel, glad to see you back. About your Niege sweater, you can alternate a neck line and add on the hoody. I made the Niege last year and it is very well drafted pattern, so this year it’s going to be another one made for sure. Xxx

[@cindytalbot2028]

Can't wait to see the clothes you made for your holiday. Three days at the beach sounds wonderful. I've had my eye on the Itch to Stitch Lamma Hoodie and Sweatshirt pattern. You could use your left over black fabric from the joggers and color block with other pieces from your stash. I'm going to try this in October with the cowl neck and draw string. Good to see you back!

[@rosierycroft166]

Loved sewing my SOI grocery bag whilst listening to you this morning (like you also trying to find my post summer, empty nest, sewing mojo....starting small). I too have yards of picot knicker elastic and scraps of cotton jersey, so am definitely going to watch Sams vlog and give them a try. Finally I just brought a great vest (or tank top as you and I both know it from @otherstories), but I really love the one you plan to knit. Would you mind sharing the pattern details? Honestly all thru your vlog I kept saying, I hear you.....yep me too...wow just like me.....it was spooky! Topped off with "I too don't knit in the summer"!!! So funny!! Anyway, glad you are back vlogging and sewing. 🤣

[@nettiefoo383]

I loov the Stevie knckees, the most comfortabble ones have self fabric bands as per tshirt neck bands.All around great stash busters,

[@CaroMary07]

Glad you're back, Cirdan and Spud were answering Piper, so funny

[@helensmith2426]

So so glad you are back. Quite understand how busy life is though. It’s just great to hear you are all ok and that we will see more of you. Loved the coffee catch up. Sometimes this is all we need. I would love a knicker sewalong if you get enough time. Glad Issac has settled in. I’m the same with my girls 25 and 21. I have bought them up to be independent but it’s still hard letting them go. My eldest daughter Maisy has just managed to put a deposit down on a new build in our area (south). Her boyfriend has been living with us for last 5 years as well and it has taken til now to have enough for a 2 up 2 down. They will be moving out in November and I know life will be so different and I will miss them. My other daughter works away for 4 months and has 2 months off so it’s been tough with adjusting to her working away for so long. I feel your pain but it’s so nice for them knowing we are on the other end of phone when times get tough and they always have a home to come back to. Thank god for having a hobby like sewing ❤️❤️

[@myralorraine]

Welcome back Rachel! I’m happy you had a lovely holiday! I love making my own undergarments (knickers)! And I agree, once you’ve made your own, you don’t want to ever purchase them again! 😉😊

[@kjlouisi4630]

enjoyed your video! would love a knicker toot. 😃

[@janelake1390]

Good to see you back Rachel. Love the lightening French terry. I have just started knitting a tank top as have seen them on the high street worn over shirt dresses. Can't wait to see your makes video. 😊

[@janetwilliams7705]

Love the fabrics you bought! Yes, use nude lining o the swimwear fabric.

[@jennydunn1874]

Missed you Rachel xx. Totally understand your anxiety. Glad you're back! 💕

[@whoatemychocolate4222]

Lovely to see you again Rachel! I missed your updates!

[@francinekirouac4729]

I have missed you, you very inspiring woman. Glad to be part of your subscribers Had a good laugh with the undergarment portion 😅 carry on!!!!! 🇨🇦🤗

[@wendydavies5336]

I’ve made the Stevie knickers too! They are so great!

[@sandrasaunders3416]

Glad to see you back. You are so right about the tank tops being trendy. QVC are selling a cream one very similar at the moment. The one you make will be a perfect as a transitional piece with a blouse or long sleeved t-shirt. and later with a polo neck. I tend to wear a lot of cardigans due to hot flushes. Pound fabrics is my go to supplier as I am still learning techniques but you are right about the polyesters. I look forward to your next vlog. Take care x

[@janicek6399]

Glad to see you back. Empty nesting is just another stage of life. In our case it's been long distance parenting. 3 kids, (one at a time) trotted off to get University educations...currently all are responsible adults within a 3 hour drive of mom and dad. Of course, the only one to have our grandbabies lives the farthest. LOL my youngest is 10 or so years older than your oldest.

[@jaynetrees8649]

Hi Rachel, as always great vlog, chat, patterns and fabric. I think your hair looks really nice, suits you. X

[@joannebanks2147]

So glad you are back It' takes time to settle in with the empty nest syndrome If you are like me it's a little bit up and down for a bit it's a new stage in your life Now that it's been a few years since our last child left the nest When they come back home for a visit or if they come back for a while when they are in between things in their lives it's like you are counting the days to get them backed out of the door lol 🙈 You are lucky to have sewing 🧵and knitting 🧶and piper to fill your days It's lovely to have your hubby to yourself as well 😉💕 Can't wait to see your next makes Happy sewing and take care God bless you

[@TheHaymeadow]

Great to have you back Rachel!

[@lindagent9831]

Hi new to your channel and just got back into sewing. OMG I had a C section and thought I was the only one with a pouch LOL. Funny as I have knickers on my to do list. Great vlog will subscribe. Peace

[@tracybarnes6608]

This was really entertaining Rachel, our sons are really alike and my husband treats him like a baby still,so it made me laugh when you said he takes you for a mug. He hasn’t left home yet, but I worry about him looking after himself. You have given away your secrets today,but thanks for being so honest about pouches ,as I have one too.thanks for making me laugh. 😊glad you had a great vacation xx

[@sewonsister]

I totally understand how hard it can be when the "baby" finally leaves. Actually, when my youngest was moving out is when I started sewing! I knew I needed something for myself while I went through that transition. It has been such a blessing. I was also laughing when you talked about your son's messy room. What is it with the boys? I'm glad that your son is doing well, that's great to hear.

[@jeanettetutt5326]

Yes please would you do a tutorial on knickers

[@krell2130]

great to see you, you're an absolute sweetheart x

[@janspenno2241]

Well what a great vlog! Really enjoyed

[@sew_So_beautiful]

Thanks for being so "graphic". I think that is likely the same changes to the pattern as I will need to make. I had a c-section too. I thought that pouch was because I had put on weight right after I had my son. I didn't know everyone got that. I'm in the process of losing it and have lost over half my weight but I will now resign myself to the fact that the pouch will still be there. Oh well. My body has never been perfect. So this is just another thing to accept. I'm fine with that.

[@ginaburgess9759]

Lovely to have you back. Empty nest syndrome is awful but the feeling does pass and you will enjoy the next phase of your life x Lucky that we have so many other interests to occupy us. It would be so much harder not having that to keep up the spirits!

[@shirleyannduncan4419]

Lovely to see you back, I've got that knitting pattern for the tank top as well, though must admit the cables on it are giving me the fear!! I'll watch with interest on how you get on with yours 😍

[@lindamcdowall6505]

Welcome back, Rachel. I've been checking daily for a new vlog from you. Glad you had a wonderful holiday.

[@eileenturner9932]

Nice to see you are back x

[@barbarajennings1057]

Oh I love your hair like that. It is my favorite of all your hair styles.

[@paulinebaker2182]

Oh my goodness... I so know what you are talking about. I had 3 kids all by c- section

[@suepratt2536]

Don't worry - I'm a midwife and I know a Lot of Secrets 🤫. Thank you for sharing your experience of sewing the Stevie knickers as I just downloaded the pattern, and I do love your Audrey top. Thank you for a great vlog 😃

[@farmwife7944]

Let us know how the french terry works out as joggers. I have some for making Toaster Sweaters but worry using that knit fabric for joggers may get pulls when my 9 month old puppy jumps up. even though her nails are trimmed they still are pretty sharp. I have lots of sweatpants and pants patterns with flat front with elastic backs and will use some odds and ends of corduroy and heavier fabrics but snuggly french terry would be my first choice if possible.

[@emma__sews]

Thanks Rachel, great vlog, appreciate your honesty, don't put yourself under pressure to make when you don't want to we all go through times when we lose our sewjo. Take care. X Love your idea of yoggers I'm going to look those up. I really need some too. 😉

[@maureencullen1008]

Lovely to see you back.If you look at the model on your knitting pattern she has a similar haircut to you.I think if you parted your hair the same way and gave it a whooose(technical term for messing around 🙂),you may be happier with your hair.It doesn't look as bad as you think but I know from personal experience,if you hair doesn't feel right neither do you I love the style and fabric of the top your wearing.Enjoy your couples holiday.

[@HeartlandKnitsAndSews]

Nice to see you back, Rachel. Your hair looks good this length. I highly recommend the Mile End hoodie by closet Core. There are so many nice details so it’s fun to sew as well as wear.

[@lindamarsh6271]

Hi Rachel. Good to see you again. Like you, I've been taken with the tank top trend (Inspired by Boden's red version) but I didn't see that pattern when I searched online. Can you please let me know the details. Thanks x

[@sallydingle321]

Hi Rachel, lovely to see you back and refreshed from your holiday in Cornwall 🏊🏄🐟😁. Really enjoyed seeing your outfits on Instagram 👌💕. Looking forward to seeing more of you over the coming weeks and seeing some of your gorgeous fabrics made up 👍. My dog Merlin is very cat reactive too...it can be a real worry sometimes 😱. Glad your all healed and Pluto has got over the scare 🙏😘😘

[@jackiewilkinson8357]

Glad to see you again. Enjoy your empty nest and I’m sure you will love it.