Grandma's Hands: Introduction to hand sewing repairs (fabric items)

Fabrications Introduction To Hand Sewing Repairs

Here at Fabrications we are regularly asked if we undertake repairs and alterations to various items of clothing. The most common repairs requested include such things as: hemming skirts or trousers, repairing holes in pockets, repairing small tears or rips in garments, sewing on missing buttons, and repairing or patching denim jeans which have worn away on the inside thigh area.

Although we do not undertake garment repairs we usually offer those enquiring two options for repairs. The first option we recommend is that the person try using a dry cleaners to undertake the job. However, we always point out that this can often work out as an expensive option. Along with that option we always try to encourage the person to try to carrying out the repair themselves, offering advice on ways that they might achieve this.

Sadly, in recent years, and maybe as a result our growing “throw away” culture, there has been a marked decline in the practice of learning even the most basic of clothing repair skills. As such, many of us now lack a real understanding of the various stitching techniques and tricks, used in basic fabric repairs.

In light of this situation, Barley has put together a comprehensive hand repair workshop focusing on both common fabric and woollen garments. The workshop is not only very informative, but also very enjoyable encouraging a really mindful approach to clothing repairs.

On completion of the class participants will confidently be able to:

- Know how to use 5 key hand sewing stitches: Back Stitch, Buttonhole Stitch, Running Stitch, Slip Stitch & Whipping Stitch

- 'Hem' by hand (changing the length of a garment or repair a frayed edge)

- Fix rips, holes and other wear & tear areas

- Repair seams (joins in your garment)

- Sew on buttons, poppers & hooks/bars

- Explore traditional & creative choices for your repair work

- Work on your mending pile with joy!

Class includes a starter sewing kit and materials to practise on (you are also welcome to bring along items of clothing to get advice on or work on directly)

There is a Woollen Repairs class in the afternoon (2:30 - 5pm). We offer a discount when booking the 2 hand sewing repair classes!

About the Tutor: The class is taught by Barley Massey - a life long "sewist", passionate about creative reuse and encouraging others into the joys of making, remaking and mending. Barley used to work in costume for film & TV before establishing "Fabrications" on Broadway Market 25 years ago. She is an experienced tutor, aiming to build student's self confidence and knowledges. She teaches a regular programme at Fabrications as well as with other organisations and at events.

Class Size: Max 6 students

T ime: 11am - 1:30pm (Please arrive promptly)

Where: The class will take place in Fabrications "Re Imaginerium" studio (we no longer have a shop cat as depicted in one of the photos!) which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps. The studio is light and bright with a homely feel to help you feel relaxed and inspired whilst learning. You will have your own work area (with some shared facilities like ironing, cutting table) We purposefully keep class sizes small to ensure a quality experience and plenty of guidance time with the tutor.

Class Includes: A starter sewing kit and fabric swatches to practise on that will become a small needle case (you are also welcome to bring along items of clothing to get advice on / work on directly)

Please Note: There is no food or drink allowed in the studio, You are welcome to bring a sealed water bottle but please ensure all 'take outs' are consumed before arriving. For full day classes there is a scheduled lunch break.

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Full Booking Terms & Conditions: HERE

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