Lend + Mend & Befriend!

Monday 30 October saw the first group of our Lend + Mend project meet for their last session at Forfar Library.

The group of 6 attended our Lend + Mend hub over a two month period, working on several projects including hand sewing, machine sewing, and getting to grips with our fantastic embroidery machine, producing various pieces from pillows to articles of clothing.

Leading the group was Tracy Shepherd who works for Brother, has a BSc in clothing technology, and carried out training with the Lend & Mend champions from each of the libraries awarded the funding on behalf of SLIC.

Everyone agreed that Tracy’s guidance and patience had been invaluable, guiding the group through the sessions. The group experienced all steps of the design process, including planning, creating a pattern, and using the machines, right through to seeing their finished pieces.

The group noted that everyone was very supportive, and they each helped one another with their projects, sharing skills and supporting the learning of new skills. Some of the group where excited to learn how to use the embroidery machine while others felt gaining a better understanding of patterns had helped them on their crafting journey. One member was just happy to learn how to attach a neckband using stretch fabric.

When asked what they planned to do with their newly learned skills the group had lots of ideas. Some hoped it would encourage them to continue their sewing journey while others were already planning to make gifts for family and friends and upcycle old items of clothing, as well as making clothes from scratch for themselves and others.

Now that the sessions have concluded the group have created a WhatsApp chat allowing them to stay connected with one another, support in future projects, update each other on what they are currently working on and arranging catch ups at Forfar Library where they all plan on continuing their sewing journey by taking full advantage of the fantastic array of equipment available at the Lend + mend hub.

Lesley Matthews – Operations Lead for Forfar Library said: It has been fantastic to see the group grow in confidence and skill as the weeks have progressed. Our libraries have always been a place where people can come together in friendship and shared interest, the Lend & Mend project can further this even more. Bringing people together to learn and share skills, community is at the heart of everything we do. I’m delighted to say we will be able to hold some more classes in the very near future.