Sustainability Workshop: Sew What: Love Your Machine & Upcycle with Purpose

AGES 18+

Do you have a sewing machine but don’t quite feel confident using it? Join our four-week class designed to help you master your machine while transforming old garments into new, useful items. This class is ideal for intermediate sewers. You'll gain hands-on experience in threading and troubleshooting your machine, sewing decorative stitches, inserting zippers, and handling fabric creatively. With a focus on upcycling and sustainability, you’ll complete several fun, functional sewing projects using repurposed materials. Come stitch with purpose and leave with skills—and creations—you’ll be proud of!

Instructor: Denise Reed

Denise Reed is a master sewist with nearly 60 years of experience behind the sewing machine. Her exquisite quilts have been exhibited in major museums, reflecting her deep commitment to craftsmanship and storytelling through fabric. As an instructor, Denise is passionate about nurturing creativity and encouraging self-discovery in her students. A devoted advocate for sustainability, she brings eco-conscious practices into her teaching and describes herself as a "mindful maker" - dedicated to sewing with intention, purpose, and care for the planet.

You’ll need to bring your own sewing machine to class, along with a few supplies from your sewing stash. A list of required materials is included on the registration form. .

Location:
Hope For Flowers
119 GARFIELD ST.
SUITE 500
DETROIT, MI 48201
*West side of the Freelon building on the plaza

Classes will be held on four successive Thursdays:
May 15, 22, 29 & Jun 5, 2025.

Sessions Available:
6:00-8:00 PM


FREE & OPEN TO DETROIT, HIGHLAND PARK AND HAMTRAMCK RESIDENTS ONLY. 18 & OLDER.


REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!

 

Teen Art Enrichment: Upcycling for Teens

AGES 13-19

In our first Teen workshop, and in celebration of Earth Week, teens will explore the impact of fast fashion and discover creative ways to make a difference through upcycling!

What to Expect:
🗣 Discussion on Fast Fashion – Learn how the fashion industry affects the environment and why upcycling is a sustainable alternative.
👕 T-Shirt Tote Bag Project – Transform an old t-shirt into a stylish, no-sew reusable bag.
✂️ "Cut" T-Shirt Project – Give a second life to a t-shirt by redesigning it with cutting techniques, fringes, or braiding for a fresh, upcycled look.

No sewing experience is needed—just bring two old t-shirts to upcycle (or use provided materials). All other supplies will be provided!

Join us for this fun and creative Earth Week event, where fashion meets sustainability! Space is limited, so register today! This workshop is FREE for all Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck Residents 13 and older.

This workshop will be postponed until further notice.

Location:
Hope For Flowers
119 GARFIELD ST.
SUITE 500
DETROIT, MI 48201
*West side of the Freelon building on the plaza

This workshop is FREE for all Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck residents 18 & older.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!