The Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) Leicester was delighted to take part in Leicester’s Riverside Festival on Saturday 6th June 2026, helping to bring creativity, sustainability and hands-on making to one of the city’s most popular annual events.
Leicester’s biggest free arts festival returned to the heart of the city over the weekend of 6th and 7th June, welcoming thousands of visitors for a vibrant celebration of music, arts, food, family activities and waterside entertainment. The event provided the perfect opportunity to kick off Summer in the City with live performances and attractions drawing people from across Leicester and beyond.
As part of the festival’s community programme, FTA Leicester hosted a busy open upcycling station, inviting visitors of all ages to get creative using recycled textiles and fabric offcuts. Participants were able to make their own slouchy bags, decorative flowers and rosettes, as well as macramé bottle holders, all created from reclaimed materials that might otherwise have gone to waste.
The activity showcased the power of upcycling and sustainable fashion, demonstrating how textile waste and deadstock fabrics can be transformed into practical and beautiful items. Throughout the day, visitors also had the opportunity to learn more about the wide range of courses, workshops and training opportunities available through FTA Leicester.
FTA Leicester Technical Manager, Jo Bean, was interviewed by Leicester Emergent Arts Radio, discussing the upcycling activities on offer and the importance of introducing the local community to creative making through sustainable practices.
“Upcycling is about showing people that you can make something out of nothing,” explained Jo. “By using textile waste and deadstock fabrics, we’re encouraging people to think differently about materials and discover new creative skills.”
Meanwhile, Operational Manager Divya Kamath spoke with Soar Sound Radio about the value of community events such as the Riverside Festival and the role they play in bringing local businesses, organisations and residents together.
“The Riverside Festival provides a fantastic opportunity for the community to connect,” said Divya. “Events like this allow people to discover local organisations, learn new skills and engage with initiatives that can have a positive impact on both individuals and the wider city.”
Following a cooler start to the day, visitor numbers increased significantly after 1pm as the weather improved. The FEL and FTA Leicester stand remained busy throughout the afternoon, attracting interest from a diverse cross-section of the community, with participants ranging from young children and families to students, hobbyists and older residents.
The enthusiastic response highlighted the growing interest in sustainability, creative skills and textile upcycling, reinforcing the importance of accessible community engagement activities.
Fashion-Enter Ltd and FTA Leicester would like to thank everyone who visited the stand, took part in the activities and spoke with the team throughout the day. We look forward to continuing to inspire creativity, sustainability and skills development across Leicester through future events, workshops and training programmes.