Sustainable Sewing and Community: Inside Bawn Textiles with Bevan O'Daly

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In this episode of the Sewing Social Podcast, host Gemma Daly sits down with Bevan O'Daly, founder of Bawn Textiles, a sustainable fabric shop based in Glasgow, Scotland.

Bevan shares her personal journey into sewing, the story behind the name Bawn Textiles, and how community has become the heart of her business.

The conversation explores the realities of running a small independent fabric shop, from sourcing ethical and sustainable fabrics to navigating the challenges of retail in the modern textile industry.

Bevan also talks about balancing the demands of shop life with her own personal sewing practice, and why sustainability, inclusivity, and meaningful relationships with customers and suppliers matter so deeply to her.

This episode is a thoughtful look at sustainable sewing, independent business, and the power of creating welcoming spaces for sewists of all backgrounds.

Key Takeaways:

• Bevan's journey into sewing began with a family heirloom sewing machine.
• The name Bawn reflects both Irish heritage and a commitment to sustainability.
• Community support has been crucial for the success of Bawn Textiles.
• Sewing can be a meditative practice that calms the mind.
• Sustainability is a core value for Bawn Textiles, influencing fabric choices.
• Building relationships with suppliers is essential for sourcing quality fabrics.
• The shop aims to create an inclusive environment for all sewists.
• Vulnerability in running a small business can lead to unique challenges.
• Future plans include expanding shop hours and improving the shopping experience.

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Guest Details:

Website: https://bawntextiles.com/

Instagram: @bawntextiles

Facebook: @bawntextiles

Chapters:

00:00 Introducing Bevan: The Journey of Bawn Textiles
04:25 The Meaning Behind 'Bawn': A Name with History
09:43 Sewing Stories: Bevan's Personal Journey
12:11 Current Projects: Balancing Work and Passion
12:54 The Journey of Sewing and Fabric Creation
14:18 Path to Textile Conservation: A Personal Story
18:33 Balancing Conservation Work and Business
20:21 The Birth of Bawn: From Idea to Online Store
27:21 Building Community Through a Fabric Shop
31:31 The Joys and Challenges of Running a Physical Shop
38:14 Sourcing Fabrics: Ethics and Choices
45:36 The Roots of Sustainability in Business
51:09 Balancing Sustainability with Business Practicalities
57:13 The Role of Home Sewists in Reducing Waste
01:04:02 Future Plans and Business Growth
01:08:32 Fun and Games: This or That?
01:12:48 Outro