Welcome back to our series of mending and upcycling workshops with the amazing charity and social enterprise Circle Collective.

These workshops are all about encouraging people to think more about where their clothes come from and where they go when they are ‘thrown away’ and the positive environmental impact of repairing and re-wearing what you already own or buying things that are pre-loved.

In this longer session we’ll be showing you how to make a bucket hat or floppy sun hat from recycled materials. You can patch your fabrics together or use all 1 recycled fabric. The hats could also be reversible! 

We’ll be using Circle Collective dead stock or feel free to bring along something to upcycle and we'll show you a range of hand sewn techniques to update your items.

These workshops will be facilitated by Make Mee Studio & Circle Collective trainees thanks to the Lewisham Repair, Reuse, Recycle grants & Youth First Legacy Fund. 

Sew What? Patch & Stitch Rework Workshop @ Circle Collective

Lorna Jackson

After Jaime explained the concept behind the workshop, we all got off to a flying start helping each other select clothes and yarns to bring our unwearable items of clothing back to life.  A truly fantastic way of being re-introduced to the art of sewing while making new friends;- )

Juliet  McEwan 

I really had great time! I learned some new techniques and tips and definitely will be patching my clothes at home. I would really recommend these workshops. I thought tutor was inspiring. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars, is because I  felt the tables were too small and the space too cramped. Otherwise, well done!

Part of our Sew What? mending and upcycling workshops with charity and social enterprise Circle Collective. 

Make an upcycled Bucket Hat or Sun Hat @ Circle Collective

Make Mee Studio

Join us for our weekly relaxed sewing and mending sessions where you can get stuck into your own projects alongside fellow makers/potential besties. 

At our socials, you can:

- Enjoy using our fully-equipped sewing studio complete with large tables, sewing machines, overlockers and every tool you’ll need
- Bring along any torn or *yawn* boring clothing to mend and upcycle (we’ll help you!)
- Chat to fellow makers, make creative friends and become part of a sewing community 
- Turn to our experienced sewing teachers for aesthetic advice and sewing technique top tips
- Refer to our collection of books, guides and patterns for ideas and how-tos
- Buy low-cost material from our studio
- Unwind and have fun in a no-pressure environment
- Best of all, be messy and not worry about tidying up!

**Before you book**
While our teachers will be available to support you, our Sewcials are designed to create space for laid-back independent sewing and peer-to-peer learning.  
If you’re a complete sewing newbie, check out our Learn to Sew or Casual Basics course. 

Our books and references can only be used in-studio. If you’d like to use them for a longer period of time, we recommend booking a bundle of classes. 

Not a sewer? No problem! Bring along your knitting, crochet, weaving, macrame or other crafting project. Our expert sewing teachers may not be able to support you to the same extent but we’re sure you’ll love the extra space, new pals and the freedom to be messy!  

We have free spots available for those who can’t pay the ticket price right now. If you can afford to and want to spread the love, consider buying a “pay it forward” ticket to support a fellow maker.

The Sewcial

Ann Thompson

Good fun at the Sewcial session, very helpful being able to use the sewing machines and meet other people working on their own different projects.

Rosie Hattersley

Super session with lots of useful advice on the project I brought along, and stop me from messing up something I thought I'd mastered but wasn't quite confident about. You can either bring along everything you need and make use of the fact there's plenty of space to work, or borrow equipment from the Make Mee studio. Although this isn't a taught class, it's fine to ask questions and check with them about stuff. The really friendly sewing instructors also always have clever fixes and ways to save on fabrics or to make better use of those I've brought along.

Erum Quddus

Loved the Sewcial! So good to be among like minded people and exchanging ideas. It was also good to be amongst people. Having support from Jaime on my sewing projects as and when I needed it means that I can actually make progress and finish things! Looking forward to the next class!  :)

Always great fun. Learn some really useful tips.

Claire Harding

Friendly and relaxed group sewing in a well-equipped studio. I'll be back!

Sara

I had a great time and learnt a lot on the course learning to sew basic casuals. There was a really friendly atmosphere and the tutors were full of knowledge, tips and tricks of the trade. The class size meant that everybody got the help when they needed it. The studio is well stocked with everything you could possibly needed to create amazing clothes. So happy I did the course and will definitely be signing up for more. 

Very friendly atmosphere. Instructors always willing to help if you are stuck on the project you are working on.
Good place to meet new people too.

Diane O’Shea

I enjoyed the session. I felt motivated working along side the other sewers. 

Clare Lorraine Phipps

These sessions are incredible value for money. £10 for access to the Make Mee studio equipment is already great, but the real bonus is the Make Mee teachers on hand if you have any questions and offer tips and tricks. Jaime is so helpful and really makes sewing fun (great for those who had the fun drummed out at school!) - I wouldn't be able to machine sew at all without her! Also a nice airy well ventilated space perfect for covid times, and the team wear masks so everyone feels safe to sew. It's also so nice to see other visitors' projects progress every week and learn from what other people are doing. Highly recommend, it's a miracle they aren't sold out every week! 

Anna Serocold

Lovely atmosphere and helpful tips ☺️

Great class, as always! Very friendly, helpful, attentive staff. And good to be amongst other sewers. Really nice vibe in the class. Thoroughly recommend! 

Liane Alleyne

I had a fantastic time as always, I will be attending more sessions and classes. 

Sabina Plamenova

Very productive, lovely teacher and students. Hope to join again in the near future!

Anna Sgambati

Good experience and friendly I want continue 

Paulette Baker

I loved it I enjoyed my first time and the young lady Jamie was very friendly and very helpful I'm definitely going back next time 

Alice  Grahame 

I completed a tricky alteration that I had been putting off for years. The sewing teacher Josh, was extremely patient showing me how to do darts, and advising on how to get a good fit. Also the equipment was so much better than what I have at home. I was delighted to leave the session with a wearable dress. I would definitely recommend Make Mee Studio for anyone wanting to have a go at dress making. 

Louisa Barry

Loved sewing with other people! Its much more fun! And for a beginner like me its great to have Jaimie at hand for problem-solving and advice! 

natalie ashworth-binns

Georgia did a great job of helping me to sow the ilford jacket which was a bit beyond my skill level. She was really patient and friendly. I would highly recommend this course and Georgia. 

pauline pennant

Awesome ! Just what I’ve been looking for - our teacherJosh was super helpful, informative & all round pleasant - free parking right outside - a hidden gem. Will most definitely be back 

Janice George

This was my first time at an evening. Everyone was welcoming and friendly, and Josh was supportive with advice. I enjoyed the evening and plan to go again.

Sarah Kutner

My experience with Make Me Studios was amazing! Annie (the instructor) was so kind and knowledgeable. She helped me with my project and gave great suggestions! I was a bit nervous as it was my first time coming and I am not too confident in my sewing, however everyone was extremely welcoming. I will definitely be back!!  

Patricia Chong

I was so fortunate to attend a “sewcial” event while in London. Everyone was friendly and I had a great time. 

Anthony Mee

Janet Jackson

I throughly enjoyed my first Tuesday morning session. Thank you Annie for your guidance and knowledge with my fiddly projects that have been sitting at home waiting to be sorted.
Although I'm an ametuer I have forgotten how much I love the sound of the sewing machine.
I'm looking forward to my next session.
Thank you.

Tati Howell

I was a bit too daunted to start a sewing project – making a tunic for my partner – and the Sewcial was just what I needed to get it going. I booked a second one as I needed some encouragement with my new overlocker, and now the tunic is finished and has been proudly worn! 

Jasmine  Jones

It was just what I've been looking for! I was able to start using up my stash! The sewing assistants are really helpful. I'm so looking forward to the next session! 

The fact that I keep going back is proof of how much I enjoy attending. Its been a positive experience meeting people who love to sew, getting great support and advice and just having the chance to talk and share.

Karina Samuel-Burm

The person leading the sewcial is helpful and encouraging.
A variety of machines is available including an overlocker, iron and large iron board, lots of coloured thread and sewing accessories. 
People are friendly and make an effort to make it social by having small conversations while working on their individual projects.  I look forward to going again.

My only recommendation would be that the tables and some equipment could do with cleaning before the sessions start. 



I really enjoy the atmosphere, and the support!

bethany  simpkin

Helpful and creative, make mee helped me with ideas and execution of a design for a bag for my business.  They have so many nifty gadgets and an abundance of materials and knowledge! Huge recommend 

Rachel McVeagh

I took the two week course on creating a trouser toile and thoroughly recommend it - it's a really friendly atmosphere, the studio is well stocked and Josh is a great teacher.

I am sp glad I found this! I love the atmosphere and Jaime and Josh are really welcoming and always help when I need some advice. 


Sorry not been around for awhile but hopefully will be back soon!!

Poonam Roberts

I found it a useful session.
People with a common interest are there to complete their own work in progress. 
Advice is constructive and resources are available.  

The Sewcial – Casual Sewing and Mending Meetup

Jo Holmes

I love to sew and I love to chat too! Sewcial at make mee studio provides a great space to start a new project or finally finish that UFO, all in the company of other likeminded creatives and great facilitaters who help and guide you with your chosen project when needed. 

Amy Foxton

Friendly sewing group and space right next to Crofton Park station. Great if you need two hours with a sewing machine to focus on a project

Emma Bray

fantastic event ! i'll certainly be going back, josh was extremely friendly and very helpful (: 

Lara Platt

Lots of informative teaching and progress with Josh 

Melissa Bond

Friendly welcome and lovely supportive atmosphere 

janet020@hotmail.co.uk

I love being able to go along to these classes, especially as its on my doorstep and I can walk within  10 minutes. It helps with my well-being and the feeling of isolation. I love sewing although I am far from being an expert but I am learning with the patience and expertise of Jamiee and Annie. Its also lovely to meet new people who attend the class. Thank you. Janet 

Diane Denham

This Sewcial session was wonderful - I thoroughly enjoyed it. Annie was wonderful - really supportive. 

Carol Davis

Friendly atmosphere with great help in hand. 

A friendly and welcoming space to sew with excellent advice on hand when needed

Fatema Jahan

Spent a great 2 hours with other sewists at the Sewcial. Was helped by the lovely tutor & assistant to pin 2 shirts, and they gave advice and demo to make the alterations for a better fit.  I learned some new things, had a nice time, in a pleasant atmosphere with others working  on their sewing projects.

Suzanne Thomas

I turned up not even knowing how to unpick a stitch and left having had a go on a sewing machine! Amazingly helpful staff there, massively patient with my total incompetance, 100% going back! Their knowledge is amazing, so much more to learn. Thanks guys! 

elwira mroczko

Loved the session and will attend again. It was lovely meeting everyone and teachers and volunteers were great 

Zi Brown

Very helpful and understanding staff, so glad that I was given the opportunity to come to these sessions. It helps my family so much and my passion and skills for sewing are on the uprise.  

Magali  Cambe

Love this place! Friendly intrustors/ fellow sewers . I got plenty of help with my various projects from the very knowledgeable tutors.  I always look forward to go to the next sewcial. Highly recommended sewing school/place. 

Bimpe Odu

Really helpful and chilled sewing social.

Lena Talib

What a lovely place to learn to sew! The teachers are friendly and helpful. A great way to spend a Thursday evening.

Bethany  Simpkin

Brilliant as always! I arrived with a bag full of fabric and some loose ideas. I was given support, advice and a pattern . Lovely atmosphere , supportive and encouraging - thanks x

Elaine Bracken

Just done my third visit to sewcial.  Lovely relaxed atmosphere.  I get so much done when I come!

Katie  McSweeney 

Absolutely lovely set up, really helpful guidance from Kate. I was grateful to have someone to help me remember the basics while I altered some trousers I shrank!

Ronnie Dehaney

I had a wonderful time attending my first sewcial and look forward to attending many more. It's the perfect place to gain confidence in your sewing style, while being encouraged by other attendees and teachers. 

Love the atmosphere! Calm, peaceful, a haven away from the hustle and bustle of life where everyone works at their own place, with lots of help when needed. Love it!

Silvia  Fernandez

Another great morning of theraputic creativity, away from the busyness of life! Love it! Thank you for such a provision

Selina Latour

I loved my experience in the studio - such a nice space to work in and lovely folk to talk about sewing with! 

Julia Fraundorfer

I have been to the Sewcial twice not and it's great! It's a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere and I received so much help with my projects. In 2 session I managed to alter 2 dresses to make them fit better and they look really nice now. Thank you for all the help!

Silvia Fernandez

I am so grateful to have found Make Mee Studio!  I am loving learning and enjoying the camaraderie when I go there.  Thanks!

Emily Bishop

It was my first session and it was a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere with everyone working at their own pace and you were able to ask for help or advice if needed. Once I remembered how to use a sewing machine, the two hours flew by! 

Hazel Rodgers

I recently learnt to use a sewing machine, but am not yet confident enough to go it alone. The Sewcial is absolutely brilliant. They have everything you need (machines, tools, fabrics, threads, etc) and there are a couple of staff members to chat with, discuss ideas and, crucially for me, help with problems with using the machine or working out how to do something. I WILL master zips!!! 😂 Couldn’t recommend Make Me Studio more highly. I’m hooked! 

Love the vibe of the group and the tutor is always so welcoming and encouraging.  Had a great time as always

I had a great time in the studio: I learnt, made friends and a dress!

Anella Vokes

The sewcial is a wonderful space! Everyone is incredibly friendly, welcoming and helpful! I will be back as much as I can! Its a great way to spend an evening :)

Penelope Grossi

Well equiped studio with plenty of natural light. Knowlegeable staff ready to give you a hand. Handy for the bus and train. Friendly sewers. You can purchase materials too! What's not to love! For me it's a chance to dedicate some time to sewing and have a chat with other creative souls.

maxine wallace

This newbie found this group,  randomly popped up on my Facebook feed and was curious.  As I am local thought why not pop along to see they use the library.  I am so glad I did.  Each person has their own machine, layout considering it's in the library was surprisingly really good.  Tutor  was on hand to offer support, advice with a volunteer on hand to help.  As the advert says you work at your pace.  First impression very encouraging, so much so booked to attend the following week session before I left with my task of  "SEW IT" just about to start,  only one issue i'm double booked :(.   This  newbie is encouraged that I will achieve my goal.  Thank you everyone for making me feel so welcomed.  Back to the homework.  Only given  3 stars as I wasn't their long but I have a feeling this be upgraded next week if I can make it.

I rediscovered my love for sewing at Make Me Studio!

Sue Hiscock

I'm so pleased I found this little gem.  Lots of help is offered and I've met some lovely people. I've only been a couple of times but have learnt so much and managed to alter a dress, make a drawstring bag and finally got to use an electric sewing machine.  Watch out 'Sewing Bee'  programme , you might have a new contestant next season!

Lara Ophelia Diana Platt

Lovely atmosphere, helpful teacher, fully equipped, a nice bit of sewing bliss for a Thursday evening.

Carole  Morrison 

I enjoy attending the classes.  The staff ere excellent and on hand to help. 

Like it very relaxed and I am able to explore my ideas.

Jessica Ann  Veno

I love working in a project and sharing experiences with fellow sewers and instructor!

Another great morning at the Make Mee Studio! Thank you for creating such a warm, welcoming happy space for all to pursue their sewing and crafting passion. Great facilities and excellent teacher. Can't wait to sign up for the next one!

jenny mccallum

Hilary Bredwood

I enjoyed the class the teachers are very informative and everyone in the very friendly.

Best way to spend an morning: sewing and making new friends!

Chris Grollman

Just great, guidance and resources and catering to all levels. 

Caz Crosbie

Great place to learn, and be creative. Lovely  friendly staff 😊

hannahclifton31619@gmail.com

Sonya Cardwell

I attended sewsical as paying customer and was threatened to be hit by some of their community non paying people because i accidentially slightly touched her bun which was sticking and blocking a small space to my seat. The tutor heard it and denied it and it was put down to my 'perception'.  It is sold as community event but i have been there a few years and never seen any paying customer return there except me as a mug.  It is not a community event it is a place where some people go for free and others pay.  There is no chatter. There are too many crammed into the space. there are some brilliant free to all places to go to with actual community feel.   Have no problem paying but not for that. Avoid.

I highly recommend sharing a session sewing, chatting and making new friends!

Had a useful and productive time. Jamie was very helpful and showed a number of us how to do button holes.

Love these sewing sessions. I always get so much help from Jaimie and Tracey and all my fellow sewers. What would I do without them? A lovely atmosphere and venue to gradually empty a mending box that has been growing for years.

They are a very helpful and friendly people also there to help you with your project.

Chinyere  Chukwu

Yvonne Palmer-Thomas

Everybody is always friendly and helpful. 

Jean Clarke

Staff was helpful and the atmosphere was very pleasant. Thanks for the experience.  I'll definitely be back for more sessions.  

Hannah  Clifton 

Such a lovely time sewing with the group. Annie is so patient kind and knowledgeable- such a helpful teacher when needed. 

The Sewcial on Tuesday was a great way to kick start my sewing projects for 2025. There were lots of ladies busy at the machines and a buzz of people happy to be together engaged in a shared love of sewing. Our group leader Ani was her usual helpful, encouraging self freely sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise. Thank you for such a great start to my sewing year!

Shine Khan  Bajwa

Such a lovely class! Relaxing and informative! Jamie the organiser is very experienced and extremely welcoming. If I lived nearer I would attend regularly. This class is highly recommended for all those interested in sewing and mending. Thank you for a lovely morning!  S 

Carole Morrison

Make progress on your personal sewing and crafting projects while becoming part of a sewing community; free spots available!

If you’ve always wanted to learn to sew, this class is for you. By the end of the lesson, you will be confidently threading a sewing machine and finishing up a tote bag or an envelope cushion to show off with pride. This class will set you up to continue your sewing adventure at home or tackle one of our dressmaking classes. Let the fun begin!


**You’ll learn:**

- How to thread a sewing machine

- How to wind a bobbin

- How to sew a hem and finish seams neatly

- How to use a simple pattern

- How to apply basic sewing skills to make a tote bag or an envelope cushion  


**Who’s it for?**

For absolute beginners who have never used a sewing machine before. 

**Material + Equipment:**


1m x 1m woven fabric, such as mid-weight cotton, linen, canvas, etc. You can also purchase this from us on the day.


All sewing tools and equipment will be provided. You are however welcome to bring your own machine to practice on if you prefer.


We’ll also provide you with cushion inserts if you opt to sew the cushion cover.

Learn to Sew & Make Either a Cushion Cover or a Tote Bag

Polly South

Such a fantastically helpful and well paced class for beginners! Big thank you! 

Stella Storino

Loved the cushion making course! Our teacher was super clear and dynamic. The group was small so she was able to help everyone. 

Beginner’s Sewing Class: Make a Cushion Cover or a Tote Bag

Bethan  Parry

Very informative class. Teacher was extremely patient and knowledgeable. Love the cushion I made and received lots of compliments about it. Thank you. 

Charlene Musgrave

Great course. Happy to have something done by the end. Supportive guidance throughout. Booked another course after this. 

Alexandra Ampofo

Had a great time at the beginners sewing class, I learnt the basic on how to use a sewing machine, we also made a tote bag. The course was easy to follow and suitable for people of different abilities. Will be returning for sure!

Lin Mirams

I have a good time learning the basic sewing skills and how to use the sewing machine. Much appreciate the tutors.

Melinda Holohan

So much fun I decided to book in on the 5 week course. ☺️  The instructors were so welcoming and helpful. Would highly recommend. 

A really nice way to spend a Thursday evening, love learning a new skill, thank you ✨

Natasha Trendall

Loved this lesson. Hadn't sewn since school and I came away with a handy tote bag! I'll be signing up for more classes 😊

Lorraine Lewis

I had an amazing time.   I walked in with some material and I left with a perfect cushion.  Okay, that's a lie, the cushion was way less than perfect but I am very happy with it!  Looking forward to signing up for other classes.

Sophie Kingham

It was such a lovely session, the instructor was friendly and patient, and I feel confident on a sewing machine now! Also got to take home a cushion, would definitely recommend 

Zoe Dudgeon

Great class , really instructive and lots of fun. Just hoping I can retain all the knowledge! Would book another class with them. 

Jennifer  Filby

Annie was a lovely, very patient teacher. I really enjoyed the session and was so impressed that I had a finished cushion cover to take home. Thank you! 

Olivia Dingreville

It was a great class. I am an absolute beginner and was not too confident I was actually going to leave with something I made. The instructor was lovely, super patient and overall it was a great atmosphere.

Super happy with the cushion I made and the lovely support I had whilst making it. It is now sitting elegantly on my sofa, and would still like to know the name of the pattern on it so I can make more like it... !

Join our fun sewing class for beginners where you’ll learn how to use a sewing machine and whip up your first project in just two hours! 

Make an upcycled Bucket Hat or Sun Hat @ Circle Collective

Age Requirement