On Monday, April 17, 2023, the UL Library Makerspace became a hub of creativity and sustainability as it hosted a Textile Repair Workshop. Organised in collaboration with The Rediscovery Centre through the IUA/EPA's Campus Living Labs project, this workshop aimed to empower participants with essential skills for repairing and extending the lifespan of their clothing.
Led by skilled instructors, the workshop offered practical demonstrations and hands-on activities focusing on three key repair techniques:
- Taking up a Hem: Participants learned how to adjust the length of their garments by taking up hems, a simple yet effective way to tailor clothing to their desired fit.
- Patching Holes: From trousers to jumpers, attendees discovered how to patch holes in their clothing using both visible and invisible techniques. By mastering these methods, participants could breathe new life into worn-out garments and reduce the need for replacement.
- Darning Technique: The workshop also delved into the art of darning, a traditional method for mending holes in fabric. Through step-by-step guidance, participants learned how to mend holes in jumpers using the darning technique, creating durable repairs that blend seamlessly with the original fabric.
By equipping participants with these valuable repair skills, the Textile Repair Workshop promoted a culture of sustainability and resourcefulness. Rather than discarding damaged clothing, attendees learned how to repair and repurpose their garments, reducing waste and minimising their environmental footprint.
The collaboration between UL Library Makerspace and The Rediscovery Centre exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving sustainable initiatives on campus. Through the Campus Living Labs project, the workshop provided students with practical tools for sustainable living while fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
As participants left the workshop, they carried with them not only newfound skills but also a renewed sense of empowerment and environmental stewardship. By embracing repair and reuse practices, attendees became agents of positive change, contributing to a more sustainable future for all.
Student Sustainability has a wide array of events taking place every week, from panel discussions and debates, to workshops and guest speakers. These events are accessible for all UL students, and cover a variety of sustainability topics. See our past and current events here, and be sure to keep up to date with any available opportunities on our social media: Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.