The Great British Sewing Bee Series 12 2026
The sewing room doors are opening once again because The Great British Sewing Bee is back for Series 12, and we couldn’t be more excited! Whether you’ve been watching since the very first episode or you’ve recently discovered the joy of cheering on talented amateur sewists, there’s something special about seeing creativity, skill and determination stitched into every challenge.
Keep reading as we reveal what time the show is airing and what they’ll be making in Episode 1!
From jaw-dropping transformations and clever pattern hacks to nail-biting Made to Measure garments, each week is packed with inspiration that will have you reaching for your fabric stash before the credits have even rolled. It’s the perfect excuse to try a new technique, tackle that pattern you’ve been saving, or simply spend more time at your sewing machine.
We’ll be following every episode, celebrating the standout makes, exploring the trends, and sharing pattern inspiration so you can recreate your favourite Sewing Bee looks at home. Let the stitching begin!
The Great British Sewing Bee returns with brand-new host Sophie Willan. Episode one airs on Tuesday 14th July at 8pm on BBC One!
Over ten weeks, 12 of the country’s best home sewers compete to be crowned winner of the Sewing Bee crown.
In the opening week, judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young set three challenges on the theme of the British summer. First up, the Pattern Challenge sees them crafting summer shorts with a patch pocket. Check out our shorts patterns to get inspired ahead of the first episode.
Next, in the 90-minute Transformation Challenge, barbecue aprons become bags!
Finally, there is a Sewing Bee first in the Made-to-Measure challenge as the sewers are asked to create garments to fit themselves. They become their own models as they make outfits for their ideal summer’s day, and once complete, the catwalk is all theirs.
One sewer will impress and earn Garment of the Week, but for another, it’s the end of the road as they leave the sewing room for good. We can hardly wait!!