Mend It Like You Mean It: Slow Stitching for Repair and Calm

In a world of fast fashion and throwaway culture, there is quiet power in slowing down and stitching something back to life, not only does it give new life to old clothes, it also calms the mind.

This hands-on workshop brings together vintage mending techniques and slow stitching. You will learn how to repair or embellish clothing with intention, creativity and care. We will cover practical basics like threading a needle, tying a knot and visible mending on fabric, along with simple stitching patterns that soothe the mind and celebrate imperfection.

Whether you have never sewn a stitch or you are a lifelong maker, you will walk away with new skills, a little more confidence, and something beautiful you made by hand.

No perfection required. Just curiosity, a willingness to experiment and a garment in need of some love.

Details

📅 Saturday 18 October

🕙 10am–1pm

📍 SMSA’s Windeyer Room, Level 1, 280 Pitt St

What's Included:

• 3 hr Guided Workshop
• A Range of reclaimed fabrics, donated pieces and thrifted finds plus embroidery threads and buttons
• BYO garment to mend

Cost:

🧵 SMSA Member Price: $70

🧵 Non-Member Price: $140

For just $50 a year (or $40 for concession holders and students), your membership opens the door to a world of literature, learning, and community. Join us and enjoy:

• Unlimited Library Access: Explore Sydney’s longest-running lending library, with long borrowing periods and a celebrated M**der mystery collection.
• Exclusive Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in thought-provoking author talks, book launches, history lectures, film screenings, curated tours and member-only workshops.
• Complimentary Event Tickets: Enjoy free entry to a vibrant calendar of talks, premieres, and cultural events throughout the year.
• Members-Only Discounts: Save on ticketed special events and programs.

Ready to become part of the story?

Find out more about membership

Creative workshop host, vintage skills champion and all-round maker of things.

After 20 years in the corporate world (and a life-long obsession with fabric, needles, colour and textures) a chronic illness diagnosis nudged me back to what I truly love: helping people slow down, make something with their hands and actually enjoy the process.

From slow stitching to flower hammering to team building that doesn’t suck, I create playful, sustainable workshops that spark connection, laughter, and a little bit of magic.

More info about Deb and her work is available

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Sydney Mechanics' School of Arts, Windeyer Room, Sydney, Australia