Repurposing, recycling, and upcycling are some of the founding principles of The Sewing Labs. Accepting donations of sewing machinery and used fabrics or clothing is just one of the ways The Sewing Labs help keep textiles out of the landfill. Teaching their students how to re-create from “waste” textiles gives fabrics a new life.
According to the EPA, people in the US throw out more than 34 billion pounds of used textiles. Of those waste textiles about 4 billion pounds are recycled with half of that being sent to other country’s landfills.Climate Council GKC introduced The Sewing Labs to Young Leader of the Americas Initiative (YLAI). This resulted in a fellowship for Francisca Gajardo to work with The Sewing Labs.
Fran grew up in Iquique, Chile where she became aware that the world was using her hometown as a clothing waste landfill. This motivated Fran to pursue studies in Fashion and go on to earn her master’s degree in Sustainable Design. During her fellowship at The Sewing Labs, Fran offered several workshops about recycling, upcycling and repurposing textiles. Fran now travels the world exploring sustainable fashion and educating others. Follow this LINK to learn more about her mission to create a sustainable fashion trend.
The Sewing Labs initially used remnants from Weave Gotcha Covered to teach people to sew. That has changed over the years as have the classes and workshops offered. You can find instruction on just about everything from a workshop creating a dog leash to classes for basic sewing all the way to industrial sewing. Certifications and apprenticeships are available upon completion of required courses.
Volunteers are always welcome at The Sewing Labs – no need to be a sewist, just a person who cares about others! The Sewing Labs also organize community support projects such as making pillowcases for low income seniors, tote bags for the homeless and fleece hats/scarves for the underserved.
Fabric Grab Returns in September – Grab or Donate Items to Help Keep Textiles out of the Landfill. Fabric Grab returns September 23, beginning at 9 a.m. Snatch up extreme bargains on all kinds of fabric, notions, and other sewing supplies while they last! Our selection of fabrics also includes many free items you won’t want to miss out on. In addition to selling our fabrics, we’ll also be accepting donations (list of acceptable items). Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and photos of items!
For more information check out their web page or contact THE SEWING LABS by phone 816.888.3051 or email [email protected] or just stop by 526 Campbell, Kansas City, MO 64106 weekdays 10am – 4pm.
