The final SEW-DOWN!

Judge PATRICK GRANT gives TV Times the buzz on the challenges ahead, plus we chat to all four semi-finalists about their Sewing Bee journeys...

- WORDS: REBECCA FLETCHER

THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE

LAST ONE TUESDAY, 9PM, BBC1 REALITY

After nine weeks of dazzling designs, nifty needlework and tremendous tailoring, the 11th run of BBC1's ever-popular The Great British Sewing Bee reaches its climax this week with the finalists set to face their toughest tests yet.

'The challenges have to be hard as the sewers are so unbelievably good this year,' shares judge Patrick Grant, who alongside colleague Esme Young will be tasking the three remaining hopefuls to fashion a bias-cut slip dress inspired by a pattern, followed by a sheer fabric transformation and a made-to-measure trompe-l'œil showstopper.

'The trompe l'œil is essentially an optical illusion that tricks you into seeing something else on the garment - like a tree or an eye with a giant eyelash,' explains Patrick, 53. 'It's an awesome challenge and fun, too, as viewers at home will be able to judge with us: "Has the optical illusion worked and, if so, how powerful is it?"

'It makes for a very competitive final as the sewers are similar in ability, despite being very different in character. It's a close one!'

Here, in case you're reading this before host Sara Pascoe reveals the final trio on screen (Tuesday 9 Sept), TV Times asks all four semifinalists to reflect on their time in the Sewing Room...

THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE is previewed on pages 66-67KIT

CAZ

RETIREE,59

How did it feel to make the semi-final?

Exciting and terrifying! Sewing is a tricky business and anything can go wrong at any time.

What have been your favourite - and least favourite - challenges?