From Family Fabric Shop to Online Sewing Success with Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics

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What does it take to grow a family fabric business that has stood the test of time?

In this episode of The Sewing Social, I'm joined by Kayleigh from 1st For Fabrics to chat about her family's remarkable 26-year journey in the fabric industry. 

From running a traditional fabric shop to embracing the world of online retail, Kayleigh shares how the business has evolved while staying true to its passion for quality fabrics and exceptional customer service.

We also discuss the importance of authenticity on social media, the incredible community that surrounds sewing, and why encouraging new sewists is so important to her. 

Along the way, Kayleigh shares the touching story behind her work creating tiny stockings for babies in neonatal units, and how sewing can be a powerful way to bring comfort and connection.

Whether you're looking for tips on choosing dressmaking fabrics, curious about the story behind one of the UK's best-loved fabric shops, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring conversations about creativity, community and sewing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The story behind 1st For Fabrics and its 26-year family history.
• How the fabric industry has changed over the years.
• Choosing the right dressmaking fabrics with confidence.
• Building an authentic presence on social media.
• Supporting new sewists and growing the sewing community.
• Kayleigh's inspiring neonatal stocking project.
• Creativity, community and the joy of sewing.

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Guest Details: 

Website: www.1stforfabrics.co.uk

Instagram: @1stforfabrics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kayleigh and First of Fabrics
02:13 The origins of the family business in the North East
04:23 Adapting to market changes and online sales
06:00 Advice for first-time sewists and beginners
11:52 The story behind bag kits and limited fabrics
15:01 Kayleigh's sewing journey and personal story
19:53 Charitable sewing: neonatal stockings for charity
22:05 Social media tips for small businesses
24:00 Upcoming plans and quick fire questions