Upcycling Workshops

Under expert guidance, you’ll learn textile embellishment techniques to transform an old item of clothing or reclaimed materials into a statement piece. The workshops will culminate in a public exhibition where your work takes centre stage alongside live poetry.

Workshop 1: Tuesday, 12th May, 6.30-9pm @ Bridge 5 Mill

• Bring a piece of clothing or choose a panel out of reclaimed materials to upcycle.
• An overview and live demonstration of free machine embroidery, appliqué, reverse appliqué, hand embroidery, and 3D lettering.
• Design your concept and begin your transformation.

Workshop 2: Tuesday, 19th May, 6.30-9pm @ Bridge 5 Mill

• Dedicated studio time to finalise your piece with hands-on technical support.
• Creative writing reflection on your piece and its new lease of life

The Showcase: Wednesday, 3rd June, 6.30-8.30pm @ Longsight Arts Centre

A curated gallery night featuring your work, accompanied by a live poetry performance exploring themes of identity and sustainability.

We encourage you to attend both workshops and the showcase, where possible.

About Emma

Emma Naughton is a Manchester-based fashion and costume designer whose work ranges from sustainable reworked streetwear to creating bespoke costumes for local performers. In 2020, Emma founded Streetwrk, based on a strong desire to rework and reimagine existing materials, her approach champions sustainability through creative reuse — transforming discarded garments and fabrics into expressive, one-of-a-kind pieces. Alongside this, her work in creating bespoke costumes has explored how identity and storytelling can be conveyed in this way. Guided by a belief that creativity is both a mindset and a method, Emma thrives on experimentation, collaboration, and thinking beyond traditional boundaries to bring bold, expressive ideas to life.

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