Old clothes are being given another chance as free repair workshops arrive at libraries across the Highlands this autumn, helping people learn skills that can save money while cutting textile waste.
Award winning seamstress Sarah James Gaukroger, known as the Highland Clothes Doctor, will lead five drop in sessions in Dingwall, Culloden, Thurso, Fort William and Ullapool during September and October.
The Clothes Doctor workshops are part of High Life Highland’s Cultivating Climate Champions initiative and will show people how to repair, alter and upcycle clothing rather than throw it away.
Participants will be able to learn practical mending techniques, improve their sewing skills and discover creative ways of transforming old or damaged garments.
Sarah will also bring along a curiosity corner featuring antique and unusual sewing accessories alongside examples of clothing she has reimagined.
The first session was held at Fortrose Library last week with a particular focus on secondary school pupils, while the remaining workshops are open to everyone.
Sarah said:
“Three relatives taught me to sew from a very young age and inspired a lifelong passion for sewing, crafts and make-do-and-mend.
“These are the skills I want to pass on to others so they can experience the same satisfaction, creativity and joy.
“To further develop my skills, I studied fashion and design at art college and have continued to refine my abilities throughout my life.
“I make the majority of my professional wardrobe and regularly reimagine vintage pieces to give them a new lease of life.
“I love colour, creativity and connecting with people, and these workshops are a fantastic opportunity to share practical skills that help both individuals and the environment.”
Sarah’s work has previously seen her selected as one of just 19 women by Liberty of London to model one of her own creations during its 175th anniversary celebrations.
She was also commissioned by the Spirit 360 Project to create a mythical magpie’s nest which is now displayed at The Inverness Castle Experience.
The workshops come as an estimated 350,000 tonnes of used but still wearable clothing is sent to landfill across the UK every year, while more than 60 per cent of households are reported to have unwanted clothes and textiles stored at home.
Julie Corcoran, Head of Libraries at High Life Highland, said:
“Learning how to repair or alter clothing is a valuable skill that can save money, reduce waste and help people make more sustainable choices.
“In the current cost-of-living climate, as well as from an environmental perspective, being able to extend the life of clothing has never been more important.”
Sessions will take place at Dingwall Library on 11 September from 2pm to 4pm, Culloden on 26 September from 10.30am to 12.30pm and Thurso on 9 October from 1pm to 3pm.
The Highland Clothes Doctor will then visit Fort William Library on 23 October from 2pm to 4pm before the final session at Ullapool on 30 October from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
The workshops are free to attend and form part of High Life Highland’s Green Libraries initiative.
For further information contact your local High Life Highland library or visit www.highlifehighland.com/libraries
