We've got some wonderfully exciting news for all fans of the Great British Sewing Bee! The festive special episode has been announced and will star four famous faces, who will each be tackling the show's challenges. Judges Patrick and Esme will be looking for hidden talents among this group of celebrity sewists.

When will the Sewing Bee Christmas Special 2022 be on TV?

You can catch this brand-new episode of your favourite show at 8pm on Thursday 22nd December on BBC One!

Who are the Celebrity Sewing Bee contestents?

This year's celebrity sewists are:

• Dancer and choreographer Johannes Radebe, best known for his appearances on Strictly Come Dancing
• Actress Natalie Cassidy who has been a famiiar face on our TVs as Sonia Fowler on EastEnders for nearly 3 decades
• Model, photographer and presenter Penny Lancaster who has also taken a turn on Strictly herself
• Podcaster, TV host and sometime singer Rosie Ramsey - you might know her from the BBC chat show she hosts with her husband Chris

Meet the Sewists

We're excited to share interviews with all four contestents! Grab a cuppa and settle in to read all about what makes them tick, and try to work out who will win...

Johannes's Interview
Natalie's Interview
Penny's Interview
Rosie's Interview

Oh and one more thing...who do you think has a crush on Patrick?! All is revealed in these interviews!

Who are the judges?

As usual, this episode will be judged by Patrick Grant and Esme Young. We love the chemistry with this dynamic duo - both are firm but fair as well as always being up for a good giggle! They are joined by host Sara Pascoe who is always there to lend moral support to the contestents and sometimes get up to a little mischief. Both judges have shared their thoughts with us about this seasonal special and you can read their interviews here:

Patrick's Interview
Esme's Interview

What are the sewing challenges?

As with any episode of Sewing Bee, our celebrities will face three challenges over the course of a weekend. The challenges are:

The Pattern Challenge: Sew a Christmas apron

This one should be nice and simple, but I bet the judges have thrown in a couple of curveballs! If you want to sew an easy apron for the festive season, we've got a free download for you to try here.

Transformation Challenge: Up-cycle children's clothes into a novelty outfit for a baby

If ever a challenge sounded like guaranteed chaos, this is it! I'm sure the sewists will have a lot of fun with this brief. For those of you who love sewing for little ones, don't miss this bargain - you can get your hands on this magazine packed with sewing ideas for your little ones for only 99p!

Made To Measure: New Year fancy dress inspired by a pop star

Oooh I hope this challenge is full of sparkles and sequins! What a fab excuse to go totally over-the-top with your sewing! For those of us who are considering sewing a party dress this season, don't miss this FREE guide to sewing your perfect party dress from Vogue Patterns.

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