of money,” says Ros Studd from Repair What You Wear. “If you can fix stuff, you can reduce waste and over-consumption. Over-consumption in clothing is driving climate change, fashion is one of the four industries that has the highest carbon footprint. Once it’s produced, the damage is done. But, if you double the time you wear something, you more or less halve the carbon emissions.”

The clothing repair classes at Aberdeen Central Library are gaining popularity because they offer a practical solution to the cost-of-living crisis and the environmental impact of fast fashion. By teaching people how to mend their own clothes, Repair What You Wear is empowering individuals to take control of their wardrobe and reduce their carbon footprint.

During my time with the Repair What You Wear team, I quickly realized that sewing is not as easy as it looks. Setting up the sewing machine and threading the bobbin proved to be a challenge, but with the guidance of the instructors and the support of the other participants, I was able to overcome these initial hurdles. I learned various techniques and functions of the sewing machine, such as sewing a straight line and a zig-zag stitch.

After practicing on the machine, we were tasked with assembling a tote bag. The instructors showed us how to line up the fabric pieces and sew them together, as well as attach the handles. Although I only managed to complete part of the bag before the session ended, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride in what I had learned.

The atmosphere during the class was filled with fun and laughter, and I overheard other participants expressing their reasons for attending, whether it was to learn a new skill or simply find a new hobby. We all agreed that we would love to come back for more classes.

The usefulness of these clothing repair classes lies in their potential to save money and reduce waste. By repairing clothes instead of buying new ones, individuals can save a significant amount of money in the long run. Additionally, extending the lifespan of clothing items reduces the demand for new production, which in turn reduces the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

In a time where sustainability and environmental consciousness are becoming increasingly important, the clothing repair classes offered by Repair What You Wear provide individuals with the tools and knowledge to make a positive impact. Not only do these classes teach practical skills, but they also promote a shift in mindset towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion.