Sew Good
Local Sewing Bee author Caroline Akselson chats to OUT Editor, Fatima Truscott about learning to sew with her grandma and her favourite spaces and places since moving to the area.
How did you start writing the Sewing Bee books?
“I co-wrote my first Sewing Bee book, Sustainable Style, in 2019, with my then business partner. We owned a sustainable sewing startup and I immediately loved the whole process of writing and producing a craft book. I continued to work with the same team since then to make more books in the Sewing Bee book series. I’m currently writing my sixth book!”
“I discovered the world of costume and did a degree in London.”
Have you always loved sewing and dressmaking?
“Always, in all forms – my grandmother taught me how to use a machine from the age of 5. I would sit on her lap and follow lines she’d drawn out. I “steered” while she operated the pedal. We designed and made clothes for dolls and made tie-dye tops in the washing machine. When I was a teenager, I discovered the world
of costume and did a costume degree in London and then went on to freelance before pivoting
to teaching and writing.”
As a working mum-of-three, how do you find ways to relax locally?
“I ride a cargo bike with my kids – some places are trickier to reach on public transport – but a weekly treat is The Secret Garden at Ewell Court and we enjoy the shaded playground at Rosebery Park, Epsom where there’s a really great coffee cart. I try to do things we enjoy at the weekend, like being outside and baking. I work many evenings but when I have time, I love looking at interiors and reading. A few times a year, I’ll sew something for myself – I can’t resist a colourful print!”
@caroline_akselson
@selkiepatterns
What I last read
“I love Perry’s approachable writing style and I find myself having little aha-moments every other page.” The Book You Want Everyone You Love to Read, by Philippa Perry
“I can absolutely and warmly recommend both.” The Fraud by Zadie Smith and Friendaholic by Elizabeth Day
Next on my list
“I have mixed heritage kids, so I read everything on that topic that I can get my hands on.” Both Not Half by Jassa Ahluwalia