You know how I was saying that last week may have boring to watch.....well buckle in, for this is a show and a half....watch out for SLIPPERMEGEDDON too at 28:00 hahah. Never happened before! Hope you enjoy the Time analaysis of M2M rounds over the last 10 series! Sad to see the time being taken away from the sewers. We want to enjoy seeing them make stunning garments. How can they with less time. Enjoy the show everyone. Jump to sections using the chapters in the description below. Stuart
Thank you so much for showing the times of previous series, it's good to have the confirmation that the times have definitely been shortened. It's sad because it's absolutely not to the benefit of the show, the contestants, or the viewers. I don't want to see a speed sewing race, I want to see the craft. As a viewer, I want to see closeups of sewing and explanations about skills. I want to see skilled people create wonderful garments. The dramatic last 5 minutes montage, and the melt downs and stress are not appealing. This is where I make my annual comment that it would be better for the show to be on BBC2, and not BBC1. It's craft, not drama. For this week, I loved Lauren's dress and the way it flowed, I would love to see that finished, and it was such a shame that she didn't finish. Luke's was good, but it seemed to me that in the side profile the sari kind of billowed out in a way that wasn't flattering to the model. I loved the colour of Marcus' material, but I do think he should have left the scarf off, I think it was a last minute addition. It was nice to have a guest judge, I would have liked to hear more from her.
I agree about the guest judge, it felt as if she was given 'the honour' of saying pre-scripted comments. This was particularly awkward given the fact she represented the Indian expertise...
I just listened to an interview with Patrick last night.( On the fold line if anyone interested .) He's unrepentant about the times , thinks it's reasonable and it's been tested by previous contestants and possible to complete in the time given. He thinks its great and the challenges are wonderful . They are currently filming season 11 and Esmae and Patrick are still the judges . I hope they listen to the viewers and know they are very unhappy about it..😮
Agree 1,000% - and to add, this is the first series where I haven't been inspired to buy patterns or fabric shown. It feels as if the BBC are tired of their own show. I also get the feeling that SB is not bringing in the revenue streams the BBC would like. When you have 12 excellent creatives unable to finish relatively simple garments to a high standard, lesser sewing mortals don't stand a chance. Maybe this is just coincidence, but ever since the move up North, the show hasn't been the same. I don't think the positives of moving has been fully exploited, especially with all the fabric mills and production facilities the area has to offer. I wonder if this is a factor in the frankly odd show production decisions, such as reducing the times for each challenge. And - my controversial point of the week - Esme and Patrick have to go. After 10 shows with Patrick, I think he has given all he can to SB, and as for Esme, a lot of people are over her "massive bows, 80s style, anti-brown and anything Westwood" wins judging technique. I'm still to be convinced that she brings anything to the show, other than being Patrick's comedic side kick. Bring back May Martin or someone with her level of expertise and replace Patrick with, or someone of the calibre of Ozwald Boateng (is Carol Alayne available?) Gutted to see Lauren go, I would have been equally gutted to see Suzy go, but with the judging this year and the timing issues, I don't want to see anyone leave, as not one contestant has been given the opportunity to shine this series so far, and we are at ep 5 almost half way in. I'm going to run and hide from all the Patrick fans - slippers thrown 10 (with probably some coming back at me!)
Hello from Canada. I am in complete agreement for the time getting too short. One thing I noticed about some of the sewists this year is many do up cycling. I am wondering if their fundamental skills are not as strong as contestants in the past and that will affect how long they are taking to finish as well as the finesse ( thanks ting for mentioning it as I was typing) to the final garments. All ways love the show, keep up the great work!
Slippers galore this week!!! I loved listening to tired Ting 😂 I definitely think Ailsa’s was the best garment this week. I loved the hints to Scotland in her garment. It fitted well and looked well made, she’s definitely the one to watch 👀 I don’t like these inspired by rounds either though 😟 It was good to see your insight on the timings of this series versus previous ones. No wonder they’re not finishing their work. It really isn’t inspiring people to have a go, is it?
It was interesting to see your research on the reduced times Stuart. The emphasis has really changed to speed sewing rather than demonstrating skill. I was sorry to see Lauren go. She had good vision for design but she was thwarted by the short timings. I thought Suzy should have gone home as she just seems to make one mistake after another. I thought Ailsa’s made to measure was the best of the bunch. Luke’s had too much material gathered into the crotch area which looked ungainly and uncomfortable plus the big reveal they promised didn’t materialise. Sorry if this comes across as negative carping. I do enjoy the show but this season is definitely the worst so far.
Just wanted to say something about the buttonhole and the machines. If it's the case that the machines need resetting, why don't the production team make sure everyone knows that? If some people are using unfamiliar machines, it's only fair to level-set certain techniques/skills especially if the machine has some unique features.
Esme needs to go with her big bow obsession and her ill-advised use of the word "impact," which makes me think train wreck or sticks out like a sore thumb. They should have sent Suzy or Marcus home, one for the Nehru jacket disaster and the other for having to use safety pins to hold his garment together. Lauren may not have filled the brief but at least you couldn't see the unfinished bits. Don't they get to try their garments at home? I always look forward to the Bee, it's a highlight of the year for me, but this season it's just making me sad. Not looking forward to kid's week. Ugh. Yes, Stuart, you need to up the slipper count.
Totally agree with Ting this week and also regarding the timings. Thanks Stuart for the timing research - again I feel for the sewers, it's not fun to watch...
It was great to see the time comparison. Agree the timing is impossible to finish a garment or let them show their skills. I am being cinical but it looks like they are making it impossible for people to apply so they can axe the show. Let’s hope not.
OK I seem to have captured the mood of the nation, I've stopped the deed poll name change and come out of hiding...it does make you wonder if they are trying to kill this programme off as viewers are getting frustrated and as an amateur sewer I wouldn't apply to go on into such hideous conditions, let's see what the future holds!
A bouquet to Marcus and his friend for services to comedy! "You are my muse and my idol." "Has your account been hacked?" In fairness to the unlined jacket, Patrick has explained in interviews that the pattern challenge patterns tend to be unsuitable for public use because they skip some features so that they can showcase other features. Min-maxing, if you will. In fairness to Alex in the transformation challenge, part way through it she did say that she'd been looking for a way to incorporate the calico but that it'd look "incongruous and weird" if she added it. My idea for the transformation is a calico panelled dress with Madras gores that morph into piping. The world needs more piping. The panels could be French seamed, with the piping added in the second stage and wrapping any untrimmed raw edge that threatens to stick out. I didn't know the name of Madras fabric either, but there's a song I like that mentions "A man wearing Madras pants" in its lyrics, and now it's become more vivid. If I worked in marketing for Janome, I'd be getting antsy about the way the 5060QDC is being portrayed this series. The footage of buttonhole issues has a strong whiff of showboating: the sewers are seen running the machines too fast and not paying attention to what they're doing.
It is good to see you display the times from the previous shows and the garments that were made. I have recently watched all of the programmes, the quality of the sewing is less good, and the type of garments and the finish requested was so much better. They should know how to make a button hole, and have practised making them a few times since MANY of the garments made will have one or more button hole. I think the sewists are not as good as in previous series. I agree that the comparison of Bake Off times is relevant, and in the Pottery throw down too, along with the judges on that show demonstrating a skill to the competitors, before asking them to replicate it.
Hello from Canada. I am in complete agreement for the time getting too short. One thing I noticed about some of the sewists this year is many do up cycling. I am wondering if their fundamental skills are not as strong as contestants in the past and that will affect how long they are taking to finish as well as the finesse ( thanks ting for mentioning it as I was typing) to the final garments. All ways love the show, keep up the great work!
Loving your critique of the show and I’m with Ting so much so that I’m drowning in virtual slippers! I agree with everyone that the timing is a huge issue and we are not getting value for our money when we are presented with so many unfinished items and if you watch House of Alistair he suggested that the pitch on the sleeves of the jacket that won the pattern challenge was not right. I actually find going back and watching the earlier series much more enjoyable even though I know the outcome!
Right on point with your discussion about time constraints. Question: isn’t the pattern challenge supposed to be judged on how well you see the pattern? Not I like the color army green? Also the made to measure challenge is to be judged on how well it fits the model? Was not in love with the judging this week, and Esmsy who I used to adore is wearing me out. I like the color or more pockets. That’s not a pattern challenge and the sewers are forced to do something “she” would like. Not sewing talent.
So many people are in agreement, not enjoying the show and frustrated with the time limits. Im almost to the point where ai dont want to watch it @@EVERBEE_SEWING_BEE
I agree with the comments about Esme, it's annoying to see the sewists deliberately add bows or pick a colour because they think Esme will like it. Judges should be looking at impersonal criteria when judging, not their own taste. And it's a sewing show, not a design show.
Yes, I agree with regards to Esme, it really bugs me when her judgment is influenced by whether she likes the colour or not, and whether the bow is big enough!
Many thanks for the timing comparison with previous years of The Sewing Bee. I really wonder if the squeezing of the timings is putting off any good and competent sewers. I certainly would not go into a show like this with a 99% liklihood being criticised for poor hems, not managing button holes and not completing a garment - when being set up to fail - as these contestants are. I fear that the producers are going to rob us of the delight and pleasure of The Sewing Bee by putting off both contestants and viewers.
Hi there, thanks to you both for giving us Unpicked. With regard to series 10 being generally off kilter (i.e. almost impossible time limits for some tasks, weird transformations, frustrating judging etc), do you think this could be due to producers and editors being non-sewers, and therefore having absolutely no understanding of what was originally great about the show? I've gone back to the earlier series and they have a totally different ambience. My impression is that Sewing Bee is moving (or has moved) into the general entertainment category. Sadly, it no longer seems to be about the sewing and the improvement of contestants skills as the series progresses, and so on, and more about.... (I can't think of a way to describe where it's heading!) Also, there used to be an element of fun and laughter present in earlier series which also seems to be missing in S10. What do you think? Jen
I'm with Ting too. Is there some way to create the throwing of a slipper like the effects of the hearts floating up? Stuart, you can use your magical pen and draw one with wiggly motion lines 😆🤣😆 I had a Nehru jacket, very pretty and I wore madras too. Aren't you two too young to have experienced those items? Were you in nursery school? Another brilliant time with you two. I only have to think brilliant and it comes up in the spellcheck! Hey, my chicken is coming along nicely. It's packing its suitcase.
I can't believe you haven't included Alex - she pretty much always finishes. My issue with heer is her items are usually very loose fitting so made to measure doesn't really happen.
Luke should have been the winner this week, in my opinion. I just thought Ailsa's dress was not as well fitting on the model as Luke's. Both were equal on everything else. Thanks for the time breakdown! I still dont think its the best gauge of who is a good sewist when they cant finish. If they have enough time and then you see the errors, you know its skill rather than rushing. Then the self-sabotage is the reason for the failure, not time.
I heard something interesting that Patrick said in an interview on " The Foldline" . The contestants from past shows test the challenges and make the garments in the time alloted after they have done there testing, etc. Maybe there is more chatting and less giddy up and go. Probably a lot we don't see😮 I never time myself making anything it always seems like forever though😂
Yes, that interview turned up at a good time. It gave us an interesting glimpse into how much effort the show's makers _do_ put into setting the time limits, and how there can still be things outside their control.
He did but i think it's all flannel. I do believe the sewers can finish but they are not on the same pressure and they can start and stop the clock . We can believe what our eyes tell us that people can't finish . He thinks every show is better than the last . I'm sorry but the viewers will switch off. Im not enjoying this series at all
O, Ting--NO NO NO! You've got to get us all to the end no matter what. Please don't bail. (On a side note, I really like Ailsa as she always follow the briefs! She's creative and finishes.)
Yay Ting so agree with your comments and reckon there should have been at least 2 more slippers. Make more slippers oh yes Stuart!. I do agree with who should end up in the final too and realise how much I miss the older series where quality of sewing and finishing the garment mattered.
Hey! Newbie to your brilliant show! Just catching up with all the episodes. Definitely throwing slippers & boots at this sb episode! 😅 I'm of Indian origin & found parts of this sb episode actually offensive!
Yup, totally agree, nearly threw my slipper pattern at the TV (am making some at the moment...). Head over to The Fold Line youtube to see Patrick interviewed and trying to justify the shorter amount of time - by saying that the contestants they get these days are /too good/ and the judges couldn't judge between the perfect garments that they'd make if given more time. Whaaaat? Just try harder judges! Surely you have to make judgements about decently sewn things in your work and teaching??
Time and budget constraints have affected the show. However, if you go back in the SB pre-Esme, there was much more emphasis on technique and skill above creativity. Now, that had its upsides for how lovely the finished items could be and you could separate the sewers by skill level. It also meant that it could be dull because it was only about sewing accurately and technical ability, but creativity was ignored. Esme brings in the creative interest, but does get carried away esp with imposing personal taste on the sewers. Ever since Covid, they've been increasingly choosing people who are inexperienced sewers who learned for a year or two in lockdown or just aren't all that skilled i.e make drag outfits etc. The emphasis on creativity has pushed accuracy and skill to the back burner. Plus, their lack of skill and time means they keep breaking the rules.The sewers need a lot more time. They're being set up to fail. Don could not keep up at all. I like Patrick, Esme and Kiell is fine as the new host. The fault is in the timing and the lower skill of the contestants.
It’s also frustrating that the sewists try to do too much in the little time allotted. They pick ravelly fabric or fabric that requires tricky pattern matching, or they throw in a bunch of extra pockets or zippers, pin tucks, pleats, and extra work.
I was sorry to discover that the jacket wasn't going to include any tailoring. It did mean the finished garments were never going to look very polished 😢
Madras...I was mad for madras from about 1965 to 1971...I'm old. 🎉 Madras mini skirts or shorts, tank top or twin set, white or even knee socks with weagin (sp) loafers, and off we go. Agree absolutely with the slipper count. The reuse was not reused nor recycled in my opinion and one of the worst was best...oh boy. But, the time with the "twos of youse" is always my favorite of the week. And, I've got lots of friends.
I re-watched all the early series back at the beginning of the year and this week I've been watching series 1 again. What a difference to what we have now! I'm glad you thought that Georgie's transformation was terrible, it just looked like a few pieces of fabric pinned to the mannequin. Plus Alex's various madras fabric didn't match at all as well as not using the calico. Unfortunately the episodes don't seem to be getting any better as we get further into the series. The skirt that was made in series1, episode 1 showed that the contestants who had picked flimsy fabric, knew they needed to line the skirt even though they didn't all have time to do it, but lining wasn't asked for. I much prefer May Martin to Esme.
I totally agree with your comments … how can we be half way through the series and 30-50% of garments are not being finished ? ?? ……. Because they’re not giving them enough time AND I’ve the impression they’re including a greater proportion of less experienced sewers . This does not make for either good viewing and nor does it encourage people to apply for the show …..I’m very much afraid they’re ‘ killing it off’ which would be a real shame .
I said exactly the same thing about the jacket not being a wearable item as unlined. I suppose you could bind all the seams but they didn't have time for that.
The funny thing is Janet from series 5 (episode 6) was eliminated partly because she made an unlined coat for her made-to-measure and was heavily criticised for not lining it. Go figure!
Agree totally with Ting. This series has lost it's appeal to me. I admire anyone who puts their name forward for it and must disconcerting to have cameras in your face all the time, but that is what they signed up for. If it was me (and it wouldn't be because no way would I apply) I would research all the other series and practice any techniques that I don't know. I would sit and try and design for the transformation challenges as I can't design for toffee. There is two things that spring to mind however. Do they get indications of how long they have for the fitting challenge? Also just watching season 4 again and the first thing was a blouse cut on the bias. A contestant said "A item cut on the bias was on the list but didn't realise it would be the first thing". So do they get a list of techniques that may crop up? If so they should practice anything they haven't done on that list. Does make me wonder because they extended the application deadline for next series, if people are being put off by what they see and won't apply. Definitely needs a revamp.
A tiny buttonhole opened up in the cosmos and I got to watch the Bee last night from the US (for the first and likely last time)--it popped up in UA-cam. I really enjoyed the program, but I felt for the sewers as you always say, and agree that they should have more time (+agree with Ting). Looking forward to All Gathered Up this week as always!
Grids? I don't remember offhand what was said about grids in the video. It might be handy if UA-cam automatically added a timestamp to comments, to show where you were up to in the video when you started typing. They do it for the chat during live streamed videos, so maybe they could do it elsewhere too.
Have watched every series of SB and the standard of sewing in this series is the worst ever! Lack of precision with a lot of the sewers and halfway through the series no-one is standing out yet as a worthy winner. Just my thoughts.
You know how I was saying that last week may have boring to watch.....well buckle in, for this is a show and a half....watch out for SLIPPERMEGEDDON too at 28:00 hahah. Never happened before! Hope you enjoy the Time analaysis of M2M rounds over the last 10 series! Sad to see the time being taken away from the sewers. We want to enjoy seeing them make stunning garments. How can they with less time. Enjoy the show everyone. Jump to sections using the chapters in the description below. Stuart
The lack of sufficient time leads to unfinished and unwearable garments and goes totally against the ethical issue of textile waste.
Thank you so much for showing the times of previous series, it's good to have the confirmation that the times have definitely been shortened. It's sad because it's absolutely not to the benefit of the show, the contestants, or the viewers.
I don't want to see a speed sewing race, I want to see the craft. As a viewer, I want to see closeups of sewing and explanations about skills. I want to see skilled people create wonderful garments. The dramatic last 5 minutes montage, and the melt downs and stress are not appealing.
This is where I make my annual comment that it would be better for the show to be on BBC2, and not BBC1. It's craft, not drama.
For this week, I loved Lauren's dress and the way it flowed, I would love to see that finished, and it was such a shame that she didn't finish. Luke's was good, but it seemed to me that in the side profile the sari kind of billowed out in a way that wasn't flattering to the model. I loved the colour of Marcus' material, but I do think he should have left the scarf off, I think it was a last minute addition.
It was nice to have a guest judge, I would have liked to hear more from her.
I agree about the guest judge, it felt as if she was given 'the honour' of saying pre-scripted comments. This was particularly awkward given the fact she represented the Indian expertise...
I just listened to an interview with Patrick last night.( On the fold line if anyone interested .) He's unrepentant about the times , thinks it's reasonable and it's been tested by previous contestants and possible to complete in the time given. He thinks its great and the challenges are wonderful . They are currently filming season 11 and Esmae and Patrick are still the judges .
I hope they listen to the viewers and know they are very unhappy about it..😮
Agree 1,000% - and to add, this is the first series where I haven't been inspired to buy patterns or fabric shown. It feels as if the BBC are tired of their own show. I also get the feeling that SB is not bringing in the revenue streams the BBC would like. When you have 12 excellent creatives unable to finish relatively simple garments to a high standard, lesser sewing mortals don't stand a chance.
Maybe this is just coincidence, but ever since the move up North, the show hasn't been the same. I don't think the positives of moving has been fully exploited, especially with all the fabric mills and production facilities the area has to offer. I wonder if this is a factor in the frankly odd show production decisions, such as reducing the times for each challenge.
And - my controversial point of the week - Esme and Patrick have to go. After 10 shows with Patrick, I think he has given all he can to SB, and as for Esme, a lot of people are over her "massive bows, 80s style, anti-brown and anything Westwood" wins judging technique. I'm still to be convinced that she brings anything to the show, other than being Patrick's comedic side kick. Bring back May Martin or someone with her level of expertise and replace Patrick with, or someone of the calibre of Ozwald Boateng (is Carol Alayne available?)
Gutted to see Lauren go, I would have been equally gutted to see Suzy go, but with the judging this year and the timing issues, I don't want to see anyone leave, as not one contestant has been given the opportunity to shine this series so far, and we are at ep 5 almost half way in.
I'm going to run and hide from all the Patrick fans - slippers thrown 10 (with probably some coming back at me!)
Yes yes i agree with your points
I’m with Ting 100% and throwing some boots in too!
A two handed slipper throw for them not allowing enough time! I want to see completed garments! I feel sad that the sewers are being humiliated 😢👠👢👡🥿
Hello from Canada. I am in complete agreement for the time getting too short. One thing I noticed about some of the sewists this year is many do up cycling. I am wondering if their fundamental skills are not as strong as contestants in the past and that will affect how long they are taking to finish as well as the finesse ( thanks ting for mentioning it as I was typing) to the final garments.
All ways love the show, keep up the great work!
As always Ting is spot on! The timing research was very revealing Stuart. Keep up the good work lads.
How did Suzy not go home
I would have loved to hear more from the guest judge…she didn’t get much airtime and she surely was an expert in the field of Indian sewing!
Bang on again with your observations this week guys. I totally agree.
Slippers galore this week!!! I loved listening to tired Ting 😂
I definitely think Ailsa’s was the best garment this week. I loved the hints to Scotland in her garment. It fitted well and looked well made, she’s definitely the one to watch 👀 I don’t like these inspired by rounds either though 😟
It was good to see your insight on the timings of this series versus previous ones. No wonder they’re not finishing their work. It really isn’t inspiring people to have a go, is it?
It was interesting to see your research on the reduced times Stuart. The emphasis has really changed to speed sewing rather than demonstrating skill. I was sorry to see Lauren go. She had good vision for design but she was thwarted by the short timings. I thought Suzy should have gone home as she just seems to make one mistake after another. I thought Ailsa’s made to measure was the best of the bunch. Luke’s had too much material gathered into the crotch area which looked ungainly and uncomfortable plus the big reveal they promised didn’t materialise. Sorry if this comes across as negative carping. I do enjoy the show but this season is definitely the worst so far.
agree
Just wanted to say something about the buttonhole and the machines. If it's the case that the machines need resetting, why don't the production team make sure everyone knows that? If some people are using unfamiliar machines, it's only fair to level-set certain techniques/skills especially if the machine has some unique features.
@SewingandCaring oooh thanks for sharing that, it really changes the picture....
Esme needs to go with her big bow obsession and her ill-advised use of the word "impact," which makes me think train wreck or sticks out like a sore thumb. They should have sent Suzy or Marcus home, one for the Nehru jacket disaster and the other for having to use safety pins to hold his garment together. Lauren may not have filled the brief but at least you couldn't see the unfinished bits. Don't they get to try their garments at home?
I always look forward to the Bee, it's a highlight of the year for me, but this season it's just making me sad. Not looking forward to kid's week. Ugh. Yes, Stuart, you need to up the slipper count.
Totally agree with Ting this week and also regarding the timings. Thanks Stuart for the timing research - again I feel for the sewers, it's not fun to watch...
Agree with everything you said not enough time to finish garments.
It was great to see the time comparison. Agree the timing is impossible to finish a garment or let them show their skills. I am being cinical but it looks like they are making it impossible for people to apply so they can axe the show. Let’s hope not.
Georgie’s transformation “outfit” looked like a Cinderella dress minus the soot.
OK I seem to have captured the mood of the nation, I've stopped the deed poll name change and come out of hiding...it does make you wonder if they are trying to kill this programme off as viewers are getting frustrated and as an amateur sewer I wouldn't apply to go on into such hideous conditions, let's see what the future holds!
A bouquet to Marcus and his friend for services to comedy! "You are my muse and my idol." "Has your account been hacked?"
In fairness to the unlined jacket, Patrick has explained in interviews that the pattern challenge patterns tend to be unsuitable for public use because they skip some features so that they can showcase other features. Min-maxing, if you will.
In fairness to Alex in the transformation challenge, part way through it she did say that she'd been looking for a way to incorporate the calico but that it'd look "incongruous and weird" if she added it.
My idea for the transformation is a calico panelled dress with Madras gores that morph into piping. The world needs more piping. The panels could be French seamed, with the piping added in the second stage and wrapping any untrimmed raw edge that threatens to stick out.
I didn't know the name of Madras fabric either, but there's a song I like that mentions "A man wearing Madras pants" in its lyrics, and now it's become more vivid.
If I worked in marketing for Janome, I'd be getting antsy about the way the 5060QDC is being portrayed this series. The footage of buttonhole issues has a strong whiff of showboating: the sewers are seen running the machines too fast and not paying attention to what they're doing.
It is good to see you display the times from the previous shows and the garments that were made. I have recently watched all of the programmes, the quality of the sewing is less good, and the type of garments and the finish requested was so much better. They should know how to make a button hole, and have practised making them a few times since MANY of the garments made will have one or more button hole. I think the sewists are not as good as in previous series.
I agree that the comparison of Bake Off times is relevant, and in the Pottery throw down too, along with the judges on that show demonstrating a skill to the competitors, before asking them to replicate it.
Hello from Canada. I am in complete agreement for the time getting too short. One thing I noticed about some of the sewists this year is many do up cycling. I am wondering if their fundamental skills are not as strong as contestants in the past and that will affect how long they are taking to finish as well as the finesse ( thanks ting for mentioning it as I was typing) to the final garments.
All ways love the show, keep up the great work!
Loving your critique of the show and I’m with Ting so much so that I’m drowning in virtual slippers! I agree with everyone that the timing is a huge issue and we are not getting value for our money when we are presented with so many unfinished items and if you watch House of Alistair he suggested that the pitch on the sleeves of the jacket that won the pattern challenge was not right. I actually find going back and watching the earlier series much more enjoyable even though I know the outcome!
I have one thing to say - “Ting for Prime Minister”. You should show up tired every week - vastly entertaining
Right on point with your discussion about time constraints. Question: isn’t the pattern challenge supposed to be judged on how well you see the pattern? Not I like the color army green? Also the made to measure challenge is to be judged on how well it fits the model? Was not in love with the judging this week, and Esmsy who I used to adore is wearing me out. I like the color or more pockets. That’s not a pattern challenge and the sewers are forced to do something “she” would like. Not sewing talent.
Sew not see
Totally agree, especially your Esme point.
So many people are in agreement, not enjoying the show and frustrated with the time limits. Im almost to the point where ai dont want to watch it @@EVERBEE_SEWING_BEE
I agree with the comments about Esme, it's annoying to see the sewists deliberately add bows or pick a colour because they think Esme will like it. Judges should be looking at impersonal criteria when judging, not their own taste.
And it's a sewing show, not a design show.
Yes, I agree with regards to Esme, it really bugs me when her judgment is influenced by whether she likes the colour or not, and whether the bow is big enough!
Many thanks for the timing comparison with previous years of The Sewing Bee.
I really wonder if the squeezing of the timings is putting off any good and competent sewers. I certainly would not go into a show like this with a 99% liklihood being criticised for poor hems, not managing button holes and not completing a garment - when being set up to fail - as these contestants are.
I fear that the producers are going to rob us of the delight and pleasure of The Sewing Bee by putting off both contestants and viewers.
Hi there, thanks to you both for giving us Unpicked. With regard to series 10 being generally off kilter (i.e. almost impossible time limits for some tasks, weird transformations, frustrating judging etc), do you think this could be due to producers and editors being non-sewers, and therefore having absolutely no understanding of what was originally great about the show? I've gone back to the earlier series and they have a totally different ambience. My impression is that Sewing Bee is moving (or has moved) into the general entertainment category. Sadly, it no longer seems to be about the sewing and the improvement of contestants skills as the series progresses, and so on, and more about.... (I can't think of a way to describe where it's heading!) Also, there used to be an element of fun and laughter present in earlier series which also seems to be missing in S10. What do you think? Jen
Just to clarify, I meant fun and laughter among contestants, not the awkward banter between host, Patrick and Esme.
I'm with Ting too. Is there some way to create the throwing of a slipper like the effects of the hearts floating up? Stuart, you can use your magical pen and draw one with wiggly motion lines 😆🤣😆 I had a Nehru jacket, very pretty and I wore madras too. Aren't you two too young to have experienced those items? Were you in nursery school? Another brilliant time with you two. I only have to think brilliant and it comes up in the spellcheck! Hey, my chicken is coming along nicely. It's packing its suitcase.
I can't believe you haven't included Alex - she pretty much always finishes. My issue with heer is her items are usually very loose fitting so made to measure doesn't really happen.
Luke should have been the winner this week, in my opinion. I just thought Ailsa's dress was not as well fitting on the model as Luke's. Both were equal on everything else.
Thanks for the time breakdown! I still dont think its the best gauge of who is a good sewist when they cant finish. If they have enough time and then you see the errors, you know its skill rather than rushing. Then the self-sabotage is the reason for the failure, not time.
I heard something interesting that Patrick said in an interview on " The Foldline" . The contestants from past shows test the challenges and make the garments in the time alloted after they have done there testing, etc. Maybe there is more chatting and less giddy up and go. Probably a lot we don't see😮 I never time myself making anything it always seems like forever though😂
Yes, that interview turned up at a good time. It gave us an interesting glimpse into how much effort the show's makers _do_ put into setting the time limits, and how there can still be things outside their control.
He did but i think it's all flannel. I do believe the sewers can finish but they are not on the same pressure and they can start and stop the clock . We can believe what our eyes tell us that people can't finish . He thinks every show is better than the last . I'm sorry but the viewers will switch off. Im not enjoying this series at all
Don't forget, Esme wasn't there for all those series...
I prefer May to Esme. Esme has some quirky ideas.
O, Ting--NO NO NO! You've got to get us all to the end no matter what. Please don't bail. (On a side note, I really like Ailsa as she always follow the briefs! She's creative and finishes.)
Yay Ting so agree with your comments and reckon there should have been at least 2 more slippers. Make more slippers oh yes Stuart!. I do agree with who should end up in the final too and realise how much I miss the older series where quality of sewing and finishing the garment mattered.
Thought I'd missed this...
Hey! Newbie to your brilliant show! Just catching up with all the episodes. Definitely throwing slippers & boots at this sb episode! 😅 I'm of Indian origin & found parts of this sb episode actually offensive!
Yup, totally agree, nearly threw my slipper pattern at the TV (am making some at the moment...). Head over to The Fold Line youtube to see Patrick interviewed and trying to justify the shorter amount of time - by saying that the contestants they get these days are /too good/ and the judges couldn't judge between the perfect garments that they'd make if given more time. Whaaaat? Just try harder judges! Surely you have to make judgements about decently sewn things in your work and teaching??
Beta blockers are in the post Ting 😂😂
The brief for the made to measure was too unclear. Ailsa did a good job. Well done to her. 🧵🪡
Time and budget constraints have affected the show. However, if you go back in the SB pre-Esme, there was much more emphasis on technique and skill above creativity. Now, that had its upsides for how lovely the finished items could be and you could separate the sewers by skill level. It also meant that it could be dull because it was only about sewing accurately and technical ability, but creativity was ignored. Esme brings in the creative interest, but does get carried away esp with imposing personal taste on the sewers. Ever since Covid, they've been increasingly choosing people who are inexperienced sewers who learned for a year or two in lockdown or just aren't all that skilled i.e make drag outfits etc. The emphasis on creativity has pushed accuracy and skill to the back burner. Plus, their lack of skill and time means they keep breaking the rules.The sewers need a lot more time. They're being set up to fail. Don could not keep up at all.
I like Patrick, Esme and Kiell is fine as the new host. The fault is in the timing and the lower skill of the contestants.
Watch: "In conversation with Patrick Grant" on The Fold Line. He explains how they set the time for the challenges.
What!!! Madras seersucker... I didn't know Calico is the British version of an Indian fabric
It’s also frustrating that the sewists try to do too much in the little time allotted. They pick ravelly fabric or fabric that requires tricky pattern matching, or they throw in a bunch of extra pockets or zippers, pin tucks, pleats, and extra work.
I do not know if these machines are just crap, but buttonholes on modern machines should be a no brainer once you've done the 1st one.
The lack of time to finish is getting boring now, loads of my sewing friends have stopped watching 😢
Have the times changed for the pattern challenges as well?
I think I heard that the sewers do get basic instruction on the machine...
Slippers for judges ignoring Pascha and Luke?
The inspiration was mostly just a bunch of scarves
How would the previous winners cope with the time reduction?
35:58 you predicted the final correctly😊
Will they get more time to complete as the show progresses?
Georgie's looks like rags.. and not good rags!
Kits are REALLY difficult!
I am tired of seeing so many unfinished garments
It's not a 'bright and shiny ' thing any more
Luke's effort - yes
I was sorry to discover that the jacket wasn't going to include any tailoring. It did mean the finished garments were never going to look very polished 😢
Ting, have you thought about complaining to Love Productions?
I have considered commenting on the british sewing bee Instagram, I think that handle is managed by love productions. Will see what happens next week.
Madras...I was mad for madras from about 1965 to 1971...I'm old. 🎉
Madras mini skirts or shorts, tank top or twin set, white or even knee socks with weagin (sp) loafers, and off we go.
Agree absolutely with the slipper count. The reuse was not reused nor recycled in my opinion and one of the worst was best...oh boy.
But, the time with the "twos of youse" is always my favorite of the week. And, I've got lots of friends.
I re-watched all the early series back at the beginning of the year and this week I've been watching series 1 again. What a difference to what we have now! I'm glad you thought that Georgie's transformation was terrible, it just looked like a few pieces of fabric pinned to the mannequin. Plus Alex's various madras fabric didn't match at all as well as not using the calico. Unfortunately the episodes don't seem to be getting any better as we get further into the series. The skirt that was made in series1, episode 1 showed that the contestants who had picked flimsy fabric, knew they needed to line the skirt even though they didn't all have time to do it, but lining wasn't asked for. I much prefer May Martin to Esme.
I totally agree with your comments … how can we be half way through the series and 30-50% of garments are not being finished ? ?? ……. Because they’re not giving them enough time AND I’ve the impression they’re including a greater proportion of less experienced sewers . This does not make for either good viewing and nor does it encourage people to apply for the show …..I’m very much afraid they’re ‘ killing it off’ which would be a real shame .
Agree with all comments. More slippers arriving tomorrow.😠
Don't hold back, Ting! Agree with you though
Lauren - oh dear... Statue that should be in a sculpture exhibit
I said exactly the same thing about the jacket not being a wearable item as unlined. I suppose you could bind all the seams but they didn't have time for that.
The funny thing is Janet from series 5 (episode 6) was eliminated partly because she made an unlined coat for her made-to-measure and was heavily criticised for not lining it. Go figure!
Pleating and access to you tube - I'll write no more
Agree totally with Ting. This series has lost it's appeal to me. I admire anyone who puts their name forward for it and must disconcerting to have cameras in your face all the time, but that is what they signed up for. If it was me (and it wouldn't be because no way would I apply) I would research all the other series and practice any techniques that I don't know. I would sit and try and design for the transformation challenges as I can't design for toffee. There is two things that spring to mind however. Do they get indications of how long they have for the fitting challenge? Also just watching season 4 again and the first thing was a blouse cut on the bias. A contestant said "A item cut on the bias was on the list but didn't realise it would be the first thing". So do they get a list of techniques that may crop up? If so they should practice anything they haven't done on that list. Does make me wonder because they extended the application deadline for next series, if people are being put off by what they see and won't apply. Definitely needs a revamp.
A tiny buttonhole opened up in the cosmos and I got to watch the Bee last night from the US (for the first and likely last time)--it popped up in UA-cam. I really enjoyed the program, but I felt for the sewers as you always say, and agree that they should have more time (+agree with Ting). Looking forward to All Gathered Up this week as always!
Me too! I scrounge through UA-cam to find them and then they take them down
@@susanhemion2981 'hdclump' is a site with many british shows. that's where I watch sewing bee.
In the US also and this show is the main reason that I subscribe to a vpn service.
@@redaleta how much does that cost?
@@susanhemion2981 I use NordVpn. Right now they are running a sale with monthly cost 3.39 - 6.39.
No - i cannot see your grids...
Grids? I don't remember offhand what was said about grids in the video. It might be handy if UA-cam automatically added a timestamp to comments, to show where you were up to in the video when you started typing. They do it for the chat during live streamed videos, so maybe they could do it elsewhere too.
@@tomscrafts the tables Stuart had for the duration of the challenges
Luke's is VERY wearable
Have watched every series of SB and the standard of sewing in this series is the worst ever! Lack of precision with a lot of the sewers and halfway through the series no-one is standing out yet as a worthy winner. Just my thoughts.