FCFTA Fashion Hub Leicester, in collaboration with Wesley Hall Community Organisation, hosted on 11th December, a vibrant and inspiring sewing and repair pop-up workshop at Haymarket Shopping Centre. The event brought together residents, volunteers and community partners for a hands-on session focused on garment repair, sustainable fashion and creative upcycling.
Led by skilled technicians and supported by experienced volunteers, participants learned practical repair and mending techniques, giving new life to well-loved garments. Dozens of attendees arrived with items in need of repair, while others made full use of the sewing facilities to create and transform pieces, producing some truly impressive results throughout the day.
Alongside the workshop, the event featured garment sales showcasing Leicester-based manufacturers, highlighting the importance of local production, sustainable shopping and responsible fashion choices. The pop-up also provided an opportunity to promote the range of courses offered by FCFTA, as well as share information about ATMF, Thread Chain and the wider support available to designers and creatives.
The event proved to be much more than a technical workshop. It became a space for conversation, collaboration and connection, enabling FCFTA to engage with different community organisations and open up valuable discussions around skills, sustainability and support within the fashion and textile sector.
FCFTA would like to extend sincere thanks to the Haymarket Shopping Centre team — particularly Dean and Maxine for their outstanding support. Their help both in the lead-up to and on the day of the event, including the generous provision of free space, was instrumental in making the workshop a success.
Thank you, Haymarket.
Special recognition also goes to Wesley Hall Community Centre for their incredible collaboration. They supported the workshop by providing domestic sewing machines and knowledgeable volunteers and tutors, Ameena and Sangeetha, who played a vital role in guiding attendees through the repair sessions and offering encouragement throughout the day.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Wesley Hall Community Organisation shared: “We are honoured to host this event in collaboration with FTA (FEL). Beyond developing practical skills, the session created an empowering space for women to connect, build confidence, and express their creativity. Activities like these also contribute positively to mental wellbeing by fostering community, reducing stress, and encouraging a sense of achievement. We look forward to many more sessions like this in the future.” Commented Wesley Hall Community Centre.
The Haymarket pop-up sewing and repair workshop wrapped up on a high note, leaving participants inspired, empowered and eager for future sessions. Events like these demonstrate the power of collaboration in strengthening communities, promoting sustainability and creating meaningful opportunities for learning, creativity and wellbeing.
Tap here to find out more about the courses held at FCFTA Leicester.