On Wednesday 20th September, the FCFTA Leicester team took part in the Leicester Textile Festival by holding a series of garment upcycling workshops. The free sessions took place at the Highcross Shopping Centre and both the morning and afternoon slots were busy with repairs, makes and upcycles by the general public.
Leicester Textile Festival 2023 is a unique opportunity to highlight and raise awareness of Leicester’s textile past, present and future. Taking place from the 16th – 24th September the Festival includes lots of community led events such as a Textile Trail, Community Yarn Bombing, Pop-Up Shops and Workshops.
The FEL Leicester team provided equipment, tuition and support for members of the public wanting to try their hand at upcycling and other personal stitching projects. The Festival unit at Highcross was buzzing with activity and it was great to see a variety of people having a go and enjoying the session. Makes included a halter neck dress made from two contrasting fabrics, tote bags, handbags, removing sleeves off a shirt and adding frills, customising plain, long-sleeve tops and more.
Feedback from the day was brilliant and included: “A great and supportive team. Loved this workshop, very creative team. I loved that the materials and equipment was provided but we were also taught how to use and work on our own clothes. I learnt how to upcycle jeans and make a bag, and that my originality is limitless!”