About this Event
Many cultures have their own unique way of repairing or decorating textiles, Boro Mending and Sashiko Embroidery are two such techniques originating from Japan. These techniques both use a running stitch to repair and breathe new life into clothing and textiles in a simple, decorative way, whilst the repetitive movement is a practice often used in mindfulness routines.
Sashiko/Boro repairs are born from the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, which embraces authenticity and imperfections, highlights rather than hides scars and celebrates these imperfections as part of an object’s history. It is also closely related to the Japanese concept of Mottainai, which expresses a feeling of deep regret when something is wasted.
You will be shown how to use Sashiko and Boro stitching on a variety of denim - as patches to fix holes in garments and/or to create beautiful traditional embroidery designs on a range of clothing (e.g. from jeans & jackets to shirts and skirts!) You will have a range of stencils to choose from to outline your Sashiko design on your garment and our specialist tutor will give you design suggestions on how to layer up patches to achieve an authentic Japanese Boro effect.
This is a hand sewing class, so there’s no need to be a whizz on a sewing machine! You will be able to learn the techniques and leave feeling inspired to continue fixing and rejuvenating your favourite pieces at home.All materials will be provided, you just need to bring a denim garment (or two) which you’d like to repair or refresh. Fabrics will also be provided if you just want to sample the techniques first.
Dianne Miller, the workshop facilitator has extensive experience in fashion and textiles, responding to the environmental impact of overproduction in the industry. Their workshops focus on reducing fashion consumption and empowering communities by raising awareness of the true cost of fast fashion. By teaching participants how to repurpose clothing that would otherwise end up in landfill, they help reduce waste and encourage creativity.
With a background that spans self-taught fashion design, freelance roles, and teaching, the facilitator has collaborated with major brands and worked internationally. After witnessing the social and environmental effects of mass production, they shifted their focus to sustainable fashion. They now lead workshops in traditional techniques such as Sashiko stitching for denim repair and visible/invisible mending for knitwear. Currently based in Edinburgh, they work as a freelance tutor with the Edinburgh Remakery and the City of Edinburgh Adult Education Programme.
DETAILS
This is an embroidery/repair workshop suitable for complete beginners and those with some sewing experience age 14+
Materials*/Equipment:
All specialist threads, denim samplers, sashiko needles, threaders, pins, scissors, unpicks, steam iron & sundries provided.
Facilities required:
Light, airy, accessible space with sufficient tables & chairs for group and refreshments provided.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
MAKE by Narture Studios 30 Newmarket St, 30 Newmarket Street, Ayr, United Kingdom
GBP 55.00
