What to expect:
Join us to experiment with some creative techniques for using reclaimed fabrics and clothing. We’ll be sharing a range of techniques, using both hand and machine sewing skills, to help you redecorate and upcycle your old clothes and textiles!
You will be able to choose between learning how to:
Upcycle a preloved t-shirt or sweatshirt with subtle alterations such as cropping it, changing the shape of the sleeves or adding some ruching. Or perhaps turning it into a completely new item such as a skirt or a bag.
Decorate your preloved clothes and textiles with hand embellishment techniques that add texture, stitch and pattern using strips of reclaimed fabrics.
If you have time, you might even be able to experiment with both! This is a drop-in workshop so you do not need to stay for the entire length of the workshop. The techniques we will be sharing vary in how long they will take to complete so you can choose one that works for you.
We will provide fabrics, t-shirts and jumpers to experiment on, alongside all the sewing kit and materials you will need. If you have your own item of clothing that you would like to use, please bring this along with you. All the materials we provide are reclaimed and second-hand so if you want to use any specific colours of thread or fabric, please bring these with you too.
This workshop is hosted by Fast Fashion Therapy in partnership with St Margaret's House.
Who is this event for?
The workshop is open to all ages and all levels of sewing ability. We ask for Children under 14 to be supervised by an accompanying adult for the duration of the workshop.
Who are Fast Fashion Therapy?
A collaboration between Eleanor and Sarah, Fast Fashion Therapy's ambition is to create a more sustainable fashion industry through sharing clothing repair and up-cycling skills. "Every month, we host free workshops at community spaces across London and online sharing 'visible mending', upcycling and essential sewing skills. Our workshops welcome people with a range of abilities and creative ambitions - we learn just as much from participants as they learn from us!"
How do I get there?
Closest Underground station: Bethnal Green (Central Line) is a 5 minutes walk away, but please note this station does not have step-free access.
Plan your visit to St Margaret's House here.
Accessibility
Step-free access to main space
Doorframe width: 90cm
Fixed hearing loop system
2 steps access to changing room (portable ramp available 1:8)
When you register for this event there will an opportunity to share with us any any access requirements that would support your attendance. This might include (but is not limited to) a BSL interpreter, access assistance, support with travel expenses or travel arrangements.
What is The January Challenge?
This event is part of The January Challenge a national campaign for creativity from social enterprise 64 Million Artists.
The January Challenge is 31 fun, free and accessible creative prompts over 31 days, designed by different people and communities across the UK. An invitation to ignite creativity and connection during the coldest, darkest days of the year.
Throughout January, 64 Million Artists deliver a new creative prompt to your inbox each day, and there are supporting events lead by the people that designed the prompts - like this one.
The January Challenge is a chance to explore your imagination as an individual, with friends and family or as part of a teaching plan, library event, team engagement at work or in any community setting. Join us and thousands of people across the UK by signing up for free today - here.