Lost Skills: Build your own clothing repair kit

Next date: Saturday, 19 September 2026 | 12:00 PM to 01:30 PM

REthink Nillumbik is hosting a series of free and low-cost workshops at the local Hurstbridge and Edendale repair cafes.

At these sessions you can learn fantastic new skills to use at home and help our shire to reduce waste and transition to a circular economy. A circular economy is one that repairs, reuses and repurposes objects rather than throwing them away.

Interested in learning to sew or making your own repairs?

Having a basic repair kit at home means that minor damage doesn't have to mean the end of a garment. This practical session will walk you through everything you need to put together a sewing kit that covers the most common clothing and textile repairs.

You'll get advice on exactly what to include: from different types of needles and what they do, to the essential tools for patching holes, fixing hems, sewing seams and more. You'll also learn how to use each item in your kit effectively. By the end of the session, you'll understand what to reach for, and why, when a repair comes up at home.

During the workshop, you'll also make your own bespoke needle holder from felt, complete with some free needles to get your kit started. It's a simple, useful project that gives you a safe and organised way to store your needles and leaves you with the first item for your new kit.

This session is for beginners and those wanting to learn more about making their own sewing repairs. No experience is necessary and all materials for the session are provided.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment for all attendees. If you have accessibility or inclusion requirements regarding this event, please contact us about how we can help at environment@nillumbik.vic.gov.au.