Meet the maker

Rachel Tidcombe set up The Sewist

Room to show how you can make great things with basic sewing skills. She shares her creations on Instagram and sells through Etsy. Keep an eye out for her new book, Sew, which is out soon.

How did you discover your love for crafting?

I helped a friend with some sewing and saw her confidence grow, so I decided to write a book to teach people the basics. I spent lockdown writing and illustrating instructions, creating projects and taking photos of them.

How has craft impacted your life?

It’s my stress release and gives me a sense of satisfaction and achievement. I’ve sewn since the age of seven and recently taught myself to knit and crochet. When you make something yourself, it boosts your morale.

What’s your advice to those who are new to sewing and where should they begin? Keep things simple and don’t be too ambitious. Master basic skills on really straightforward projects – they will then turn out well and you’ll be able to progress on to something more adventurous. Your confidence will grow with everything you make.