Get more life from your textiles!About this Event
Join us for a creative, hands-on workshop exploring the art of visible mending. Using colorful thread, fabric scraps, and simple hand-stitching techniques, you’ll learn how to create an artistic patch to repair worn or damaged textiles, or simply decorate something that needs new life,. All while turning the garment into something beautiful and uniquely yours.
Visible mending is more than a repair technique—it is a conscious, sustainable philosophy that celebrates the history of our garments rather than discarding them. You are highly encouraged to bring 1 to 2 personal items from home, such as denim, woven shirts, knitwear, or tote bags, that need some extra love. You can either mend, or simply adorn with a visible patch created in class. Practice materials will also be available if you prefer to build your skills before tackling a personal piece. All other materials will be provided.
No sewing experience necessary, beginners are welcome.
All materials and refreshments provided. This is a 21+ event.
Meet the Artists
Yvonne Cervantes Coleman
Yvonne Cervantes Coleman is a lifelong creative professional with over 35 years of experience spanning the entertainment industry and small business ownership. After studying patternmaking at Los Angeles Trade Technical College, Yvonne built a distinguished career as a professional costume designer and on-set costumer in Hollywood. Her credits include La Bamba (Columbia Pictures), Fried Green Tomatoes, Stand and Deliver, Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man, D.O.A., and Jack's Back. She served as personal costumer for Linda Ronstadt's Canciones de mi Padre national musical tour, and her early career included work at the Los Angeles Theatre Center on Spring Street, where professional relationships with Luis Valdez and Phil Esparza of El Teatro Campesino launched a distinguished career in the entertainment industry.
After relocating to Claremont to be near family, Yvonne discovered a passion for sewing education when she began teaching at her children's elementary school. In 2016 she opened her first studio, and in 2019 reimagined it as Common Thread Claremont — now celebrating its 10th anniversary as a beloved community institution.
In 2026, Yvonne expanded her vision by opening Common Thread Fabric & Supply Co., an independent retail fabric and notions shop at 228 West Foothill Blvd in Claremont. Thoughtfully curated and community-centered, the shop offers premium fabric, notions, patterns, and sewing kits — and serves as the only independent fabric retailer in the Claremont area following the closure of JoAnn Fabrics.
Instagram: @commonthreadclaremont
Sandy Garcia
Born in El Paso, Texas, my artistic journey began surrounded by culture, color, and the beauty of borderland life. Some of my earliest memories are of traveling with my grandmother to Juárez, Mexico, where I was immersed in vibrant markets, textures, traditions, and the everyday beauty that would later become part of my artistic language.
I was raised in East Los Angeles, where Chicano art, community, protest, and a free-spirited upbringing shaped the way I see the world. These experiences continue to influence my work, connecting my art to memory, identity, culture, and the stories carried through generations.
As a self-taught folk artist, I have learned to embrace imperfection. What may appear unfinished or imperfect can become the most magical part of a piece. I approach each day as a gift and an opportunity to create, experiment, and discover. My practice moves freely between painting, textiles, and, occasionally, ceramics.
My paintbrush, sewing machine, and hands working with clay have become extensions of my heart. Through them, I translate memories, emotions, experiences, and imagination into something tangible.
Every piece I create carries a story. Yet once it leaves my hands, that story becomes open to interpretation. Each person may see something different, feel something different, or discover a story of their own.
For me, creating is not about perfection. It is about connection, expression, and allowing the unexpected to become part of the magic.
Instagram: @pintalos
Event venue
Claremont Lewis Museum of Art, 200 West 1st Street, Claremont, United States
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