How To: Mend Clothing Workshop

Seam coming apart on your favourite shirt? Button fallen off your lucky jeans? No need to get rid! Learn how to repair your own clothing and ensure they're treasured for years to come.

ELWA is funding 20 places for residents in Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham and Redbridge to attend a half-day workshop for beginners to learn How To: Mend Clothing.

In the workshop, textiles repair experts will teach you how to make common repairs by hand on a range of clothing items, practice your skills on scrap fabric, then try it for real!

You’ll learn how to:

• Sew a button

• Repair a hem

• Practice a range of stitches: running stitch, back stitch, ladder stitch, invisible stitch, and learn when to use each one
• Problem solve & mend various items of clothing

Location: Kenneth More Theatre, Oakfield Rd, Ilford IG1 1BT

All equipment will be provided, but we encourage you to bring in an item of clothing to that you’d like to repair.

Please note that this is not a repair cafe. You’ll be expected to stay for the full duration of the workshop to learn to repair items yourself, through the guidance and support of our facilitators.

This community event is led by The Sew London Project, Joy-Z and Fabrications, and is funded by East London Waste Authority.

Need help completing the booking form? Email us at [email protected]

Terms & Conditions

• This event is only open to residents in Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham & Redbridge, due to funding requirements. If you live outside these boroughs, I'm afraid we will have to cancel your ticket.
• The workshop is suitable for attendees aged 14+, and under 18's must be joined by a parent or guardian, who will also take part in the workshop.

• You must book a ticket to attend as there is limited space. There is a waitlist and we will be in touch should a ticket free up.

• These sessions are completely free, but spaces are limited, so please give us notice if you can no longer attend.

• Not been able to get a ticket? Go to www.eastlondonwaste.gov.uk/howto to express interest in future sessions.

• This event is a collaboration between East London Waste Authority (ELWA), The Sew London Project, Joy-Z and Fabrications. By booking a ticket, you consent to your answers being shared with both organisations, for reporting purposes. Your personal information will not be included in any reporting, however the organisations may use your name and email address to contact you for follow-up (e.g. to share updates or request further feedback). You can opt out any time by emailing [email protected]

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Info: Please bring any lunch or snacks from home, or shops are available nearby.

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Host or Publisher East London Waste Authority