Sew & So...

This episode of Sew & So is a little different. Instead of one conversation, you're getting three!
While recording at BERNINA University 2026 in New Orleans, we had the opportunity to sit down with three remarkable women who are each making an impact in very different ways.
You'll meet Shelancia Daniel, founder of Creativity Shell, a nonprofit using sewing and other creative trades to build confidence, life skills, and resilience in children—including some of our most vulnerable youth.
Then we'll head to Switzerland, at least figuratively, with Sarah Caldwell, who leads international training and product development for BERNINA International. We talk innovation, the changing ways people learn, AI, customer input, and the beautiful new BERNINA Liberty Edition machines.
And finally, you'll meet Allison Parker, founder of ricRACK in New Orleans—a nonprofit that's giving fabric a second life while teaching a new generation how to sew, create, repair, and rethink textile waste.
Three women. Three completely different stories. One powerful connection: they each saw something that needed to change and decided to do something about it.

(1:39) Meet Shelancia Daniel!
(2:09) Shelancia tells us what’s she’s been up in the last year with Creativity Shell
(2:50) How did Creativity Shell get started and why did she name it Creativity Shell?
(3:40) What new programs does Creativity Shell have going on this year?
(5:40) How does Shelancia come up with ideas for new programs?
(6:36) Where is Creativity Shell located and what are their plans for expansion and the future?
(8:59) How many kids have gone through their program?
(9:25) Shelancia talks with us about human trafficking and how people can be aware of what’s going on and make a difference?
(12:10) Shelancia talks about Creativity Shell’s relationship with BERNINA.
(13:48) What can someone do if they are suspicious of human trafficking?
(15:38) How can you support the Creativity Shell?
(16:53)www.creativityshell.org
(17:44) Meet Sarah Caldwell head of Training for BERNINA International
(18:38) Sarah talks about what she’s been up to for the last year as well as the new BERNINA partnership with Liberty Fabrics.
(19:39) How was the pattern on the new BARNINA machine chosen?
(20:05) What shifts and trends is Sarah seeing in how people learn?
(20:49) How does the current generation learn that’s different from other generations?
(21:34) Innovation…what emerging technologies is Sarah seeing?
(22:20) What influence does AI have on today’s innovations?
(22:52) Sarah tells us about herself and how she came to work for BERNINA
(24:15) Sarah handles training for all but North America. How is her approach different form that in North America?
(25:07) How does she know what needs to be taught?
(25:57) Where do the ideas come from for new product development? What about customer input?
(28:02) What does the next year look like for Sarah?
(29:13) How did Sarah and her family get started in making and modeling costumes?
(30:30) What didn’t we ask? Hear Sarah’s story about her mom.
(31:53) Meet Allison Parker founder of ricRACK New Orleans
(32:43) Allison tells us about ricRACK and its inception
(35:41) Where did the name ricRACK come from?
(36:44) Allison tells us about the sewists who are working in the back of the store…as well as the other groups who work in the store year-round.
(38:26) In the life of ricRACK, what has surprised Allison the most?
(39:46) What are the requirements for fabric donations to ricRACK?
(42:23) What’s Allison’s dream for the future of ricRACK?
(42:44) What question didn’t we ask? How can people help?!
(44:06) Where does she want to open new locations?
(44:46) www.ricRACKnola.com, allison@ricRACKnola.com

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

What happens when sewing, cosplay, writing, teaching, natural history, horses, gaming, and a whole lot of curiosity come together? You get Annye Driscoll, better known online as Maker Fishmeal.

Annye is a writer, teacher, software developer, cosplayer, and self-described “very slow crafter.” They’ve written books including The Ultimate Glue Guide, Finish Your Cosplay!, and Ultimate Encyclopedia of Fabrics and Unconventional Materials, and they have a fascinating approach to creativity and making.

In this episode, Annye takes us into the world of cosplay, talks about how they learned to sew, explains why the cosplay community is so special to them, and shares what goes into creating their costumes. We also get into their books, their love of natural history, their many hobbies—and what it really means to be a “slow crafter.”

It’s a great conversation about making things, following your curiosity, and finding your people. So, let’s get started. This is Sew & So.

They live in Ohio with their partner, kitties, pony, and school of fancy guppies. 

(1:25) Meet Annye Driscoll!

(1:54) Who is Maker Fishmeal and how did Annye come up with this name?

(3:10) How did they learn to sew and who was their inspiration?

(4:55) When did they realize that creating was going to be a part of their life?

(6:18) What was Annye’s first experience with Cosplay?

(7:28) Annye talks about the Cosplay community and why it’s so special to them.

(9:07) What goes into the costumes they create and what’s the process?

(10:34) How does someone learn to work with foam? Cosplay’s Ultimate Guide to EVA Foam by Beverly Downan

(11:57) What’s the one thing about the Cosplay culture that Annye wants people to know?

(13:13) Annye calls themselves “a very slow crafter”. What does that mean?

(14:14) They say that cosplayers come to their craft from an unconventional place. What does that mean?

(16:41) Annye talks about their many and diverse hobbies…and what is their theory about horses?

(18:36) Annye talks about the books they’ve written.

(21:40) What’s the process when they release a book?

(22:54) How can you find out where Annye will be and where to meet them?

(23:12) Why is Annye a self-professed natural history geek?

(26:36) What’s next for Annye?

(27:01) Is there a question we didn’t ask?

(27:16) How can you contact Annye? www.Makerfishmeal.com…reach out please…they really mean it!

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

Welcome to a special edition of Sew & So, brought to you by BERNINA — Made to Create. While attending BERNINA University in New Orleans, the Sew & So team had the privilege of sitting down with Carl Mack—artist, musician, storyteller, preservationist, and founder of the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture. As Carl welcomed us into his world, every answer sparked another fascinating story about the history, artistry, music, and traditions that have shaped Mardi Gras for generations.

From designing elaborate costumes to explaining the meaning behind Carnival customs, Carl's passion is contagious. More than a collector, he is a guardian of New Orleans culture, preserving not only spectacular costumes but the stories and people behind them.

Join us for this special Sew & So takeover as Carl Mack takes us on a colorful journey through one of the world's most celebrated cultural traditions.

 

(2:04) Meet Carl Mack

(2:50) How did the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture come to be?

(4:27) Carl takes us through the process of creating a Mardi Gras costume

(7:23) What is the history of the Mardi Gras colors purple, green and gold?

(8:42) Meet Alexis Romanoff and learn his influence on Mardi Gras

(10:26) Learn of Carl’s own special contribution to Mardi Gras

(11:16) What’s a Second Line parade?

(15:38) How long does it take to create a Mardi Gras costume?

(20:19) Carl provides definitions of common Mardi Gras terms.

(26:46) What’s the difference between Carnival and Mardi Gras?

(30:47) What does Carl want visitors to his museum to know before they arrive…and take away when they leave?

(32:41) Let’s talk a walk through the museum with Carl as our guide! He gives us an upfront and personal tour of his amazing collection and the history behind the costumes.

(37:35) Carl is the Captain of a Carnival Origination…the Krewe of Stars. Learn more about them…

(41:47) What costumes does Carl have that belong to Mardi Gras stars and royalty?

(44:17) What’s a Medici Collar?

(44:41) What about the Mardi Gras Indian costumes?

(45:36) Let’s sing along with Carl!!!

(46:19) Learn a little New Orleans Rock and Roll and Jazz history.

(47:52) Carl shares his own personal story of arriving and thriving in New Orleans.

(49:45) How can you contact Carl? www.themardigrasmuseum.com and on Instagram

(50:30) What question didn’t we ask him? This is pretty special!

Key Takeaways

The fascinating history behind Mardi Gras and the broader Carnival season. 

How elaborate Mardi Gras costumes are designed and handcrafted. 

The symbolism of Mardi Gras colors: purple, green, and gold. 

The difference between Carnival and Mardi Gras. 

The traditions of Second Line parades and Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs. 

The artistry and cultural significance of Mardi Gras Indian suits. 

Carl Mack's personal journey from musician to museum founder. 

Why preserving stories is just as important as preserving costumes. 

The role of Carnival Krewes and Mardi Gras royalty in New Orleans culture. 

How the Mardi Gras Museum brings New Orleans history to life through interactive exhibits and storytelling. 

Additional Background

The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture, founded by Carl Mack, is located in New Orleans' historic French Quarter. The museum features one of the city's largest private collections of Mardi Gras costumes, including royal regalia, Mardi Gras Indian suits, Social Aid & Pleasure Club attire, Cajun Mardi Gras costumes, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience Carnival traditions firsthand. Carl, originally a percussionist and street performer known as "The Xylophone Man," has spent more than four decades immersed in New Orleans culture and is also co-captain of the Krewe of Stars Carnival organization. His mission is to preserve not only the spectacular costumes but also the stories, traditions, and communities that make Mardi Gras unique. 

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

:  In this episode of Sew & So, we’re joined by Dr. Cindie Husbands, founder of the American Tailors and Sewing Association.

Few people can say they've been a professional mime at SeaWorld, designed award-winning bridal veils, produced performances at Carnegie Hall, Broadway Theatre, and the Sydney Olympics, built dance studios, manufactured casino uniforms in Las Vegas, launched a company that produced antimicrobial masks during the pandemic, and then founded a national organization to transform the future of tailoring in America. But Dr. Cindie Husbands can.

Every chapter of her extraordinary life has been connected by one constant—sewing. From learning to sew as a young girl to building businesses across the country, Cindie has embraced every opportunity that came her way. Today, as founder of the American Tailors and Sewing Association, she's on a mission to address the growing shortage of skilled sewists, establish professional standards for the tailoring industry, and create new pathways for people to build meaningful careers through sewing.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, reinvention, and why sewing isn't just a craft—it's a skill that can truly change lives.

 

(3:00) How did Cindie first learn to sew and who was her inspiration?

(4:40) What’s the first item she created and does she still have it?

(4:55) Cindie takes us on a ride with her through the journey to where she is today. Hear about the now famous people she still knows from high school and why she became a mime at Sea World. Buckle-up…this is amazing! Hear about Carnage Hall, the Sydney Olympics, Alaska, Las Vegas, Casino Uniforms, Kokomo, IN, the realization that she had gone to high school with her husband and more! And in all of this…she earned her Doctorate Degree!

(21:26) Hear about the performances she’s produced and which are her favorites.

(22:20) Cindie talks about why quilting in Alaska is so pervasive and why quilting became important to her

(25:46) Her daughter Amber owns Volcano View in Homer, AK.

(26:08) What sewing projects are the most meaningful to her?

(28:00) Cindie talks about the disconnect in the sewing industry and why she started the American Tailors and Sewing Association. And…the dearth of standards and sewists to work for fashion companies and tailoring.

(32:00) Why haven’t standards and pathways been addressed until now?

(34:00) There is a resurgence in the interest of tailoring…but not enough people in the workforce to do the work. She explains what can be done about it.

(36:08) Have the large stores been supportive of her efforts?

(37:56) What are the goals of the Association? And her vision for the future of the industry?

(39:20) Learn about her plans for Mobile Sew Labs created to help people reinvent themselves.

(41:00) Cindie has “sewing can be a business at almost any level”. What does she mean by this?

(43:00) Americantailor.org

(43:08) What’s next for Cindie?

(44:05) What’s her dream?

(44:50) Is there a question we didn’t ask?

(45:40) You can reach out to Cindie go to Americantailor.org. Tell her you met her on Sew & So!

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

New Orleans has long been a city where imagination comes to life. From the vibrant colors of the French Quarter and the rhythms of live jazz to the artistry behind Mardi Gras costumes, historic architecture, and unforgettable cuisine, creativity is woven into every corner of the city. It's the perfect backdrop for BERNINA University 2026, where this year's theme, "Imagine More," challenged dealers, educators, and makers from across North America to dream bigger, learn more, and inspire one another.

In this special edition of Sew & So, we're taking you inside BU 2026 for exclusive conversations with BERNINA leadership, the Ueltschi family, vendors, dealers, educators, and special guests. You'll hear about exciting new products, innovative partnerships, inspiring stories, and even venture beyond the convention center to discover some of New Orleans' unique sewing destinations. Whether you attended BU or are experiencing it for the first time, this episode brings you front and center for one unforgettable week of creativity and community.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

(2:18)Ryan O’Hare director or rooms at the Hyatt New Orleans welcomed the crowed and presented the city’s BERNINA Day Proclamation.

(4:14) Paul Ashworth – BERNINA Of American CEO & President welcomes a very special family to the opening ceremony stage.

(4:36) Let’s meet HP Ueltschi, Philipe Ueltschi and Felix Ueltschi – the family’s 4th, 5th and 6th generations! Hear why New Orleans is a special city for Mr. HP Ultchie.

(5:45) And here’s Christy Berchem VP of Training and Education at BERNINA of America.

(6:48) Meet Shelancia Danial  of The Creativity Shell

(9:26) Meet dealers Cindy, Deniese, Jenny, Colleen and Rachael who tell us what they’re looking forward to at BU.

(11:10) Meet a few of the vendors too!

(11:58) Walk with us through the Merchant Mall.

(12:09) Joe Vechiarelli from Dancing with the Stars and Project Runway visits with us.

(15:24) Meet Michael from The Goat Notions Company 

(16:15) Melanie from Brewer and David from Benartex talk about the fabrics they are offering at BU this year.

(19:22)there is a new partnership between BERNINA and Liberty Fabric. We talk to Odette and Maithe from Liberty who tell us about this wonderful new collaboration.

(22:35)Martha Porter has been creating with Liberty Fabrics for years. She explains how she uses the fabric and provides a few tips as well.

(25:31)Carrie, Jordan and Ashley from OESD share their exciting new offerings

(27:17) Here’s Amanda Murphy to tell us what’s new with her

(28:55)Travel with us now to the outskirts of the French Quarter to visit three special places focused on sewing. Each of these conversations will be featured in full in upcoming Sew & So episodes. Here’s Brett from Dressed New Orleans and Allison from RicRack New Orleans.

(32:19) Meet Carl Mack and as we visit his Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture.

(35:34) Back at BU we got to visit with the Ultchie family – especially 3-year-old Felix. First…HP Ueltschi.

(37:36) Now 5th generation Philip Ueltschi

(38:46)Finally, 6th generation – 3-year-old Felix!

(39:02) Carolyn and Fabian from BERNINA International walk us through the new offerings from the serger/overlocker line.

(42:30) Danielle VP of Marketing for BERNINA International visits with us in her third BU.

(44:53)Hey Christy Burcham, what’s new in Training and Education at BERNINA of North America?

(46:57)Let’s check in with previous Sew & So Guests Pam Mahshie, Sarah Caldwell and Tania Norris

(52:10) Kai Hildebrand – CEO of BERNINA International…how was BU?!

(52:48) Michaelynn Rose – VP of Marketing for BERNINA of North America – shares her thoughts of BU 2026 

(53.33)Meet Amera from Going Batty Reno, NV– the winner of this year’s BU Fashion show!

(54:34) Jeanne Delpit – 30-year BERNINA veteran and Manager of National Events shares her big news! Then share in the heartfelt sendoff from Mr. Ueltschi at the closing banquet

(1:00:00)Introducing the new Manager of National Events for BERNINA…Candy Pennacchi

(1:02:35) Christy Burcham sums up the whole event experience

So another BERNINA University is in the books. Our thanks to everyone who gave us their time, shared their stories, and helped us bring a piece of BU 2026 to you.

And to all of you Sew & So’ers listening there is so much to look forward to from BERNINA and from this remarkable community of sewists, quilters, makers, and dreamers. Until next time — keep imagining more.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.