Beelievers have new tricks up their sleeve
This month, after a three-year hiatus and an uncertain future, reality series The Great British Sewing Bee returned to our screens – and critics have praised the revamped show, which airs on BBC Two.
Previously presented by Strictly Come Dancing’s Claudia Winkleman, the fifth series is now fronted by comedian Joe Lycett, and follows 10 amateur crafters as they compete to be named the UK’S best home sewer.
Over the course of eight episodes, judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young set themed tasks, which have included a vintage-inspired “wiggle dress” and children’s hoodies.
Just like other surprise hit traditional craft shows, such as The Great British Bake Off and The Great Pottery Throw Down, the sewing competition has attracted impressive audience figures.
When the series first appeared on screens in 2013, an average of 2.6 million viewers tuned in for first episode.
Speaking to trade magazine, Craft Business, Edinburgh-born Savile Row tailor Grant praised the show and the contestants for their passion.
The TV judge said: “I love the contestants, their passion, their humour and their camaraderie.
“We’ve set lots of great new challenges.”
One show focuses on the environmenal cost of lowcost fashion, an issue that Grant is passionate about.
Although there has been a rise in home sewers creating their own designs, he thinks too many consumers don’t consider the environmental impact of low-cost fashion.
He added: “Sadly, still far too many people treat shopping as a pastime and clothing as disposable.
“Our consumption is out of control and we need to change, but home sewers are leading the way in this.”