Episode 2 | Pass it on: Sewing Sessions | Project Intro & Materials with Sidnie

Welcome to Episode 2 of our sewing series created as part of the Rekindling Nello James heritage project by Rekindle School. This series celebrates African and Caribbean heritage skills through sewing, while highlighting the creativity, craftsmanship and community knowledge that has been passed from one generation to the next. In this episode, expert seamstress Sidnie Pantry introduces the sewing project and talks through the materials you'll need to follow along with the series. Drawing on decades of professional experience, she explains how to choose fabrics, patterns and supplies, giving you the confidence to get started before making your own A-line skirt in the coming episodes. Inspired by the legacy of the Nello James Centre, a community hub in Whalley Range where practical skills and community learning were celebrated, this series helps preserve heritage while encouraging people to make, mend and create for themselves. Whether you're an experienced maker or picking up a needle for the very first time, we hope these videos inspire you to learn something new and help keep these important skills alive. --- About Rekindling Nello James Rekindling Nello James is a National Lottery Heritage Fund project led by Rekindle School (2025–2026). The project celebrates the legacy of the Nello James Centre in Whalley Range, preserving African and Caribbean heritage through community storytelling, creative projects and shared learning. Find out more: www.rekindlingnellojames.org If you enjoyed this video, don't forget to like, subscribe and follow the series as we continue passing these valuable skills on to future generations.