Do you have holes in your clothes and don't know how to fix them? Learn how to make your clothes better than new with professional mender Erin Lewis-Fitzgerald.

This course will focus on visible mending – creative, colourful repairs – but will also cover some invisible methods. You'll learn a wide range of techniques including hand stitching, patching, darning (by hand and machine) and needle felting.

The course is suitable for ages 15 and up; no mending experience is required but basic hand-sewing experience is recommended.

Students are encouraged to bring their own mending projects to work on.

Course dates and times

Tuesday nights 6.30pm to 8.30pm x 7 sessions

The first five sessions are devoted to specific techniques, and the last two sessions are open – you can delve more deeply into a particular technique or mending project, or catch up if you've missed a session:

29 January: introduction + hand stitching
5 February: patching
12 February: darning
19 February: needle felting
26 February: machine darning
5 March: open session
12 March: open session

Student testimonials for the mending masterclass

“I loved this course. It gave me lots of techniques and inspiration for mending clothes in a creative and practical way.”

“The course was really well balanced and certainly delivered on its description, I definitely feel I could/can mend my own clothes – now just to find the time. Erin was a great teacher and helped develop a great group dynamic. Thanks for the new skills. The course was also excellent value.”

“Erin was very generous with her time and knowledge. It was great to hear about her philosophy, experiences, and see examples of her work. She was also excellent at encouraging everyone’s projects.”

“Erin has a wonderful positive approach and makes everyone feel like they can achieve.”