Project Runway Season 21 brought fresh talent, bold designs, and high-pressure challenges to Bravo’s long-running, Emmy-winning fashion design competition. At the heart of it all were the BERNINA and bernette machines—and the skilled BERNINA team who supported contestants as they raced against the clock to bring their visions to life.
In this episode of Sew & So, we sit down with four of those “sewing fairies”—Jaime David (Education Project Manager), Megann Freese (Educator), Hayley Grzych (Educator), and Fabian Renteria (Associate Educator). Together, they pull back the curtain on what it’s like to be behind the scenes of one of fashion TV’s most iconic shows. From early call times and prepping challenges, to watching contestants “make it work” in real time, the team shares stories of intensity, camaraderie, and unforgettable creative energy.
Whether you’re a Project Runway fan, a sewist, or just curious about how TV magic comes together, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of BERNINA pride.
(:45) Let’s meet :
Jaime David, Education Project Manager
Megann Freese, Educator
Hayley Grzych, Educator
Fabian Renteria, Associate Educator
(1:35) What one word would each of the team members use to summarize their experience on the set?
(3:40) How did each member of the team find out that they would be going to the show?
(6:48) How did this overall opportunity to work with the show come about? And how did the experience unfold?
(12:04) Hear about a “typical” day on the set!
(14:07) How was communication with the contestants monitored to make sure that everyone got the same information and no secrets were revealed?
(16:40) Learn about how each challenge were prepped and how the BERNINA team participated.
(19:11) The team talk about some of the “make it work” minutes.
(21:07) What was the most memorable moment for each team member? You’ll want to pay attention to these answers!
(26:24) What surprised the team members while on the set?
(27:50) Are there any moments they’d like to relive? The team also calls out Nick, David, Rich and Noel for their amazing support!
(33:59) What did this experience teach each of them both personally and professionally?
(36:48) The team represented BERNINA on set. How did this experience affect how they feel about the brand?!
(38:39) Are there any messages the team members would like to send to the contestants?
(41:02) Any questions we didn’t ask that they wish we had asked?