Upcoming workshops
Regular monthly sew-cial
1ST MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH
Monday Mending Club
Bring something to mend, and we share the tools and the know-how on how to get started. It's an opportunity to make new friends, enjoy friendly chat and drink, whilst learning new skills in a relaxing environment.
The focus is on the meditative, life-enhancing joy of craft and being in the moment, whilst having fun sharing skills and just catching-up on life and supporting each other.
Free event.
Meet us at Big penny Social 7:30-9:30pm, just turn up, no need to book.
Big Penny Social, 1 Priestley Way,London, E17 6AL.
Past workshops
THURSDAY 4TH JULY 6-8PM
Introduction to Japanese Sashiko embroidery
In this workshop you will explore traditional Japanese patterns to decorate a coaster using the Sashiko technique, a skill you will be able to use to repair any torn or damaged garments, with the aim of having a more sustainable approach to your wardrobe.
The term Sashiko means “little stabs”, and the embroidery technqiue has a rich history originating in Edo period (1603-1868) Japan as a practical method for working class farmers and fishermen to reinforce or repair their damaged clothing. The practice evolved beyond its utilitarian roots into a highly regarded decorative art form.
In the two-hour session, the workshop covers the essentials of threading, patching, and initiating your mending journey. All materials are provided, including a set of templates, needle and thread plus full instructions all of which you take back home.
Tickets are £30, including all tools and materials, with instructions and Sashiko templates to take home.
No.1 Church Lane, Leytonstone, E11 1HG (opposite Fones 4 U and William Hill)
SUNDAY 16TH JUNE 11:30-1:30PM OR 2:30- 4:30PM
Make your own Sashiko wall hanging workshop
Learn the traditional embroidery technique of Sashiko, with Japanese artist Mika Sembongi.
In this workshop you will learn how to create your own unique wall-hanging piece to take home using the Sashiko technique, a skill you will be able to use to repair any torn or damaged garments, with the aim of having a more sustainable approach to your wardrobe.
The term Sashiko means “little stabs”, and the embroidery technqiue has a rich history originating in Edo period (1603-1868) Japan as a practical method for working class farmers and fishermen to reinforce or repair their damaged clothing. The practice evolved beyond its utilitarian roots into a highly regarded decorative art form.
In the two-hour session, the workshop covers the essentials of threading, patching, and initiating your mending journey. All materials are provided, including a set of templates, needle and thread plus full instructions all of which you take back home.
£40 per ticket
Pavement,
21 Orford Road, London E17 9NL.
THURSDAY 25TH APRIL 6-9PM
Sashiko & Sip
A relaxed evening of sashiko stitching and sipping sake inspired by the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition.
Literally meaning ‘little stabs’, sashiko is a method of sewing together one or more layers of cloth with running stitch. Used to reinforce fabric to make it last longer, the technique is characterised by distinctive stitching patterns.
Hosted by Mika Sembongi of the Monday Mending Club, participants have the opportunity to explore various sashiko patterns, spanning from AI-generated William Morris designs to the traditional Uroko and Shippō stitches. All alongside some sake or a non-alcoholic substitute.
Please book for your one-hour sashiko slot (6pm, 7pm or 8pm). You are welcome to come any time between 6pm – 9pm as there will also be a chance to see the exhibition, have a drink and try some basket weaving on our first-floor lounge.
£10 per ticket. £5 concessions. Includes 1 x glass of sake or soft drink. 18+ event.