In this Community Sustainability workshop, we will revisit a practice long carried forward by the women who came before us. For generations, sustainability has been rooted in necessity—guided by care, resourcefulness, community, and a desire to create beauty. Our grandmothers and great-aunties gathered in sewing circles, mending what was worn and passing down knowledge through their hands, stories, and time together. Do you recall learning how to sew, knit, crochet, or embroider? Maybe you have memories of being taught how to stretch a dollar, replace a missing button, employ multiple uses for a sugar cookie tin, or tend a garden.

Join us as we come together to tend to needed repairs, learn new mending skills, and reflect on how our ancestors wove sustainability into everyday life. As we stitch, native-Detroit writer, poet, and arts educator Leslie Reese will guide our conversation, while master sewist and teaching artist Denise Reed provides hands-on mending instruction.

Come be in creative community with us as we gather to share, listen, and mend!

Please bring two garments in need of a small repair, such as a T-shirt, blouse, skirt, jacket, or pair of pants with a tear, missing button, loose hem, or similar minor issue. Because space and time are limited, please do not bring ball gowns or items requiring major alterations.

This workshop supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals, weaving together sustainability, traditional knowledge, practical skill-building, and community connection. Foremost among them are: #3: Good Health and Well-Being, and #12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Space is limited. Registration is required.