Don’t ditch it! Stitch it!

Explore the art of repairing and embellishing our clothing through visible mending.

In this second Make & Meditate morning of 2026, the Make & Meditate team invite you to explore ways of mending damaged or worn out clothes, giving them a new lease of life rather than ditching them and buying new. The source of visible mending can be traced back to the Edo historical period of Japan when the cost and availability of textiles meant it was necessary for people in remote or poorer areas to patch and mend their clothing over and over using “boro” which means rags. Over time it developed into a much admired art form called sashiko (pronounced sashko).

We too can use patching and stitching to upcycle/recycle our clothing and reduce waste, while at the same time enhancing it’s beauty by adding texture and colour. Hand stitching can be calming and relaxing for the mind, helping us to slow down and giving space for inner reflection. It is an enjoyable activity to do with others, a time of sharing thoughts and creativity with a cup of tea or coffee.

If you wish, bring an item of clothing to repair, or simply come and experiment with scraps of fabric and thread and make a patch to use another time. Materials will be provided and no sewing experience is needed. The morning will include a period of led meditation and again, no experience
is needed.

Do come and join us – we look forward to seeing you.