‘Zero Waste Sewing’ is a philosophy that encourages the reuse of fabric offcuts, the repurposing of preloved textiles / clothing or the redesign of patterns/garment construction to minimise or create no waste. It encourages us to look at ‘waste’ materials as a valuable resource or be more mindful with the ways we use materials in the first place.

With a spirit of adventure, join Barley Massey for a fun and social event in creatively transforming your own ‘waste’ textiles into something new and functional. We will be taking inspiration from Wendy Ward’s book “Sewing Basics for Every Body” and using the “Felix Sweatshirt” pattern as our starting point. A loose fitting, casual top, an essential core garment for any handmade wardrobe! The book is also available in Fabrications shop.

Barley has been a professional “upcycler”, championing creative textile reuse for over 25 years. She will share some of the techniques and tips from her own making practice and show you a collection of examples to inspire you before you get started on your own version.

All levels of sewer are welcome but basic sewing skills are recommended. If you have never used a sewing machine before and would like to attend this class, we recommend attending our Beginners Sewing 1 class first.

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

– look at ‘waste’ textiles from a new perspective

– create your own zero waste version of the “Felix Sweatshirt”

– develop sensitivity in combining different colours and shapes

– patchwork together to create your own unique cloth from offcuts also known as ‘Scrap Busting’

– understand how to “Trace Off” (copy) a paper pattern

– work with a ‘basic block’ and understand how to create variations and expand your range of items from 1 block

– work with knitted / stretch material on a domestic sewing machine

– add ribbed band edging – cuffs, neck & hem bands neatly

– walk away with a completed item

CLASS SIZE: 4 Students

TO BRING: Sweatshirt offcuts or at least 2 old sweatshirt items from home or your local charity shop. If you are unsure on what to bring please do contact Fabrications to discuss further. 

CLASS INCLUDES:  Your own copy of Wendy Ward’s new book “Sewing Basics for Every Body” which contains 20 different ‘essential’ designs. Pattern paper to trace off your sweatshirt pattern. Threads, other haberdashery and use of equipment.

PRICE: £85

HOW TO BOOK: Contact us directly on 020 7275 8043 or BOOK ONLINE

Please Note: The workshop will take place in the Fabrications studio (which is downstairs from the shop via 12 steps)