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

These workshops are 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. 

First up at this FREE drop in learn how to hand sew appliques and embroidery to rework your forgotten items. 

Bring along something to upcycle and we'll show you a range of hand sewn techniques to update your items. 


The first in  our series of mending and upcycling workshops with charity and social enterprise Circle Collective. 

Sew What? Patch & Stitch Rework Workshop @ Circle Collective

Make Mee Studio

They’ll get stuck into sewing, crafting and designing projects to instill a sense of confidence and pride. These sessions are open to kids of all sewing abilities, from complete newbies to confident creators. Regardless of their ability, they’ll leave with new knowledge and progress on projects appropriate to their skill level. 

This is a great extracurricular activity that will give your child transferable life skills. They’ll learn to use a sewing machine and discover loads of other craft and design techniques including: appliqué, embroidery, free machining, dressmaking, pattern cutting, and much, much more! 

**What’ll they make**

Each child will tackle a project of their choosing, individually guided by one of our friendly and experienced teachers. We have a huge range of projects on offer so they can choose to make something they will love and cherish for years to come. 

They can also choose fabric and trims available in our studio. We have everything, from regular cotton and standard buttons, to plush faux fur and sequins – a dream for imaginative young makers!   

Some of our projects include: cuddlies, bags, t-shirts, skirts, trousers, cushions the list goes on…

**Who’s it for?**

These sessions are suitable for budding sewers of all abilities, for children in year 2 and above.  Please note, we have recently had to increase the age criteria so please email if you child is 6 but in year 1. 
They can be a great help for GSCE and A-level work, and can also go towards D of E skills.

This session can also serve as a taster to see if your child would like to sign up for our After School Club or Holiday Classes. 

Please note: we cannot offer childcare over lunch time.

Children's Freestyle Sewing Saturday's

Alexandra Gimeno McMahon 

Alex loved it as always, she is always so proud of what she achieves!!! 

Fab kids lessons that give them skills for life!

Imogen George-Young

4.5 stars
She enjoyed it very much - the range of options of stuff to make & the help from Jamie. (although she had her own project to learn to finish! ) 

She's booked to come again next month. 

Alex  Gimeno Mcmahon 

Amazing as always, love fact they can create whatever pops onto their head on the day !! 

Poppy  Gleeson

My children have been enjoying sewing sessions with Jaime and Tracey at Make Mee since 2018. They love the fact they're allowed to choose projects based on their skill level but also encouraged to stretch themselves and develop new skills. The creations are amazing. Between them they have made jackets, trousers, skirts, t-shirts, shorts, bags and pencil cases. All from interesting fabrics so each piece is totally unique. We love these classes so much that since moving we now travel a 4 hour round trip to participate. 

Cecilia  Durbin 

Cecilia was very focussed.. during the different sessions she's attended so far.  and has challenged herself in making a few different items !! It is good fun for that age and the free flow works out well given the different levels and working paces. 

Grace Campbell

My two girls absolutely loved their first sewing class. They came out so excited and animated about what they’d made. It was a joy to see their faces! We’ve booked again.  Thank you so so much Tracey & Jaime. 

Esther Agbolade 

Love love all my sessions. All amazing coaches. 

Isabel Gilmore

My daughter absolutely loved her first ever session here. She’d never used a sewing machine before and came home having made a Hogwarts cushion which she was very proud of! She can’t wait to come again. Thank you!

Emma Prouvost

I love the class and making the scrunchy and the pillow. ( Emma,6) 
My daughter absolutely loves this class and has been asking over and over for more sessions.


Ariana Clarke

Super 3 hour session. Made a tote bag, hair scrunchie and pompom! 
Will definitely be going again.

Keira Waisome

I'm really pleased with my bag. Looking forward to the next session!

Iona Singleton

My daughter loves this class. I'm amazed at the stuff she comes home with - yesterday she stayed for the morning and afternoon session and came home having finished a backpack and made a pair of trousers from scratch. A really brilliant workshop.

Eloise McKeown

We love the monthly Saturday sessions, the quality of the projects that come home with the kids is always astounding.

Mary Elliott

This was the perfect first session for us both (mum and daughter) to learn to use our new sewing machine and to have guidance in our first projects. We both loved it! So pleased to have found your studio & looking forward to learning more with you. Thank you.

Lola Kamp

My daughter loved it! She came back home with her home-made skirt, quite pretty indeed. She would like to go weekly :) Excellent skills to learn, while having fun.

David Hunter

My son had a great time at the children's freestyle sewing workshop at Make Mee studio.
He had stated making a hat at home out of his own interest and needed a bit of help to sew it together properly. The tutors at Make Mee enabled him to make what he wanted. I was very impressed that they managed to give such tailored (no pun intended) support to individual students. My son was really happy with the end result and said the time passed really quickly, he was enjoying the process so much.
Thanks Make Mee studio! 

Cleide Marlene Moreira da Costa

Hi 
My name is Acacia I am 8 ,l really like sewing lesson, because it’s very fun,  I can learn how sewing, and the teachers are very nice. 

Sulihat Owoyemi

I liked the make mee studio because I got to chose what I made and did most of the work. What I disliked about it was that I did not get to really go on the machine by myself but overall it was really good.

Elly & Zoi  Vernardou

I am impressed every time my girls go to Make Mee with all the goodies they make and bring back and wear on a daily basis! Its incredible!

Katerina Milchevska

My daughter loved it! 
It was our first time coming to Crofton Park Library for the kids sewing club, but i have a feeling we'll become regulars every fist Sat in the month. 
She made a lovely foxy pouch that she's been showing around for the past few days, very pleased with herself. 
Thanks for the amazing time and fun ways of transferring useful skills.


Freja Hamill

Freja had the best morning learning to make a bag and a key ring. The crafts are very much age appropriate and challenging and the teachers are lovely. We’ll definitely do another Saturday workshop before Christmas! 

Philippa Williams

My daughter and I both really enjoyed the Saturday morning class. The teachers were incredibly patient and friendly. The machines and resources available were very good quality and we had a fun three hours sewing and crafting. It has helped me overcome a fear of sewing machines and I look forward to another class soon.

Emma Prouvost 

My daughter loves the sewing  class and never fails to impress with the creations she brings back home. Last time she made a cat tail for her Christmas show :). 
It’s a great class for kids to boost their confidence and coordination  with great teachers who are always on hand . Tracey and Jamie kindly provided advice in connection to buying a sewing machine and what accessories go with it in spite of their busy schedule. Thank you , we will be back ! :) 

Emma Hunter

Absolutely loved the sewing class, the teachers were great. I’m definitely going to sign up for more sessions.

Avery Wood

I loved it so much and I want to go back  next week 

Kelly Bush

My 9 year old never wants to do any clubs!!! But she’s asked to go back to this one. Thanks so much x 

Zoe Williams

Both Zoe and Isaac love coming along to the monthly sewing session.
They are learning new skills from patient and friendly teachers, they make great pieces and are always keen to come back for more!

REBECCA MACEY

We were told about MakeMee by a friend and her daughter. We tried the Freestyle Saturday workshop (having no previous experience of sewing machines). What a delight! My daughter is just 6, but she was engaged throughout. We had lots of friendly help (even though it was busy) and we both made purses. My daughter is very proud of her creation, now showing it off at every opportunity :)  The other kids there had been before i think, and were very impressive & inspiring

Sewing Lessons for Children - Freestyle Sewing Saturday's

Cornelia Lowe

Fantastic sewing classes for all levels. My daughter really enjoyed learning, from the basics of how to thread a sewing machine to following different patterns. Lovely patient members of the team have made the experience all the more exciting. 

Josie Heneghan

Such a great learning experience and environment 

Irene Galbraith

I think this workshop is really nice and I want to back.

Daniel Thurley

My daughters been coming here for several months and loves it, she's made some bags, leggings, headbands etc, she's taught how to use the machines safely and correctly and can choose what designs / projects to work on.

Hannah Lowry

My nine year old daughter loves the first Saturday of the month sewing sessions and we've been so impressed at how much she's learnt. Her confidence and creativity have increased and she's made some fabulous creations. The teachers strike a great balance between helping/supporting/teaching and giving them space to be independent and to learn from trying things and making mistakes. It's hard to find classes as kids get older and this one has the benefit of teaching skills for life!

SERENA LASCELLES

I’m 8 years old and I made my first bag! It’s so beautiful. I learnt so much and can’t wait to come back for another lesson!

My 13 year old loves coming here and has made leggings and a t shirt and has sparked a real interest in clothing design and textiles. Staff are really friendly and helpful.

Amaya

My daughter loves coming to the classes. The team was supportive, caring and was eager to help everyone. It was very inspiring seeing all the other sewers pushing themselves to create incredible work. My daughter will definitely be coming again soon! (The review was written by my 9 year old daughter)

Nina Godfrey

I think everyone was so friendly and helpful, it was a wonderful experience (especially for my first ever lesson).

My 2 girls love this class ! We always wonder what they will bring back home after each session and  it’s lovely to see how different their creativity is :) 

Cyd BARCLAY

My daughter thinks this class is great, she liked being able to make whatever she wanted and was really proud of what she made. We will come back soon

Martha Heneghan

My 2 little girls love the Make Mee sessions. It’s empowering , creative  and gives them a boost to their confidence . They both look  forward to each class and keep asking me to book the next ones :) 

Rebecca Owens

The freestyle sewing on a Saturday seemed to be such a lovely class and my 10yo daughter made bunting using a sewing machine, lovely fabrics, a pattern, and she pinned and ironed the material. She said she really enjoyed it with lovely staff and was very pleased with what she had made. Thank you. 

Our eleven year old daughter has been attending the Saturday freestyle sewing sessions for a while now and absolutely loves them. We've been so impressed by the things she's made and the skills she has learnt. It's also one of the few activities we've found that is suitable for tweens/teens. 

Sarah Canavan

A wonderful mum and daughter time. The ladies were so patient and knowledgeable.  My daughter is autistic and struggles with new people but I was amazed by how relaxed she was. We will definitely be back and have already recommended it to friends. 

Laima Speakman-Havard

My daughter had a wonderful time and I was bloolwn away by what she achieved.

Jenae Boadu

Class was amazing! I would recommend to any parent!

rebecca macey

Booked Sat am session for some mum & daughter time. (Mum with no skills & daughter 7 yrs and a beginner) Amazingly lovely time. Steph was calm, attentive, encouraging and super helpful. We both came away very pleased with our creations- thanks so much, esp to steph

Abigail Cooper

My 9 year old daughter attended one of your Saturday afternoon sessions and she absolutely loved it. She thoroughly enjoyed making her bag and is very proud of it. She also really appreciated the independence she was given whilst also feeling very supported. She is desperate for me to book her in again which I will not hesitate to do! Thank you!

Anne Prestwich

We loved our experience, my daughter absolutely loved it. She made a skirt and a crunchy never used a sewing machine before and she’s very proud of what she made. 


Caroline  Gubert 

I booked this session for my daughter and my mother. They had such fun together and when I came to pick them up, my daughter was absolutely glowing as in 3 hours she had made a skirt that was 'so beautiful you could buy it in a shop'. To confirm her enthusiasm, many people have since asked her where she bought it! Thank you for giving my daughter such a wonderful and affirming experience. I have booked myself into the next session with her and can't wait (my mother also made a stunning snood). 

Rose Wright

So much fun. Lots of new skills acquired. Lovely snood  at the end of it!

Ebone Logie

Great morning activity. Lovely staff. Supportive and encouraging of being a beginner. Have great ideas and we’re very patient. Session was very enjoyable and will go again!!

Lucy Wilkins

I and my 7 year old daughter attended, neither of us ever having sewed before. I cannot believe that I by the end of the three hours she had made a skirt and I a bag, using sewing machines. My daughter was so thrilled and so proud and had an amazing time. The teachers were lovely and patient. We are 100% going again!

Elsa  Raffel

Another brilliant session at Make Mee Studio. My daughter and I are hooked! So satisfying to make something so beautiful in 3 hours and then be able to go away and use it day to day!

Bethan LIVESEY

My daughter loves the  Saturday freestyle sessions. She is encouraged to try new things, be bold and learn new skills. She has made some impressive pieces that she is rightly proud of. So glad we found this place!

Anne Prestwich 

My daughter really enjoys coming to the Saturday classes, and loves learning a new skill. 

Merle Cox Davies

Thank you! My child loves your classes and has been endlessly making weird and wonderful creations at home as a result🌈

sarah young

My 8-year old daughter thoroughly enjoyed the Freestyle Sewing session. She immediately asked when she could again. Thanks very much. 

Treat your child to a few hours of creative fun at our Freestyle Sewing sessions, held on the first Saturday of each month. 

Question 1

Is your child in year 2 or above?  If they are 6 but in year 1 please contact us before booking.

Please tell us the name of the person/people attending and if they are a child or adult

It is estimated that more than 100 billion items of clothing are produced globally every year.

...and that 65% of those items end up in landfill within 12 months!

We on the road taking our Make Mee & Mend workshop to the Telegraph Hill Festival!  at the Brand New Makerspace in New Cross. 

We're saving your clothes from the back of the wardrobe or even worse... the bin!

Our expert sewing facilitators will teach you how patch your holes, hem your trousers, darn your socks, hide a stain. Whatever you bring us, we love a challenge!*

Very often there will be more than one way to fix something. We can talk about your options and offer visible and invisible mending advice where possible. We will then start you on your mending journey.

It is estimated that more than 100 billion items of clothing are produced globally every year.

...and that 65% of those items end up in landfill within 12 m...

Make Mee & Mend @ Facework Makerspace for Telegraph Hill Festival 

Spend 6 blissful hours sewing.

This is an extended version of our Sew Your Own sessions (formerly sewing surgeries) will give you the help you need to make progress on tricky projects while taking the time to unwind with your sewing. Bring along a query or a project of your choice and our experienced teachers will be there to guide you on your way. 
We can help you with:

**We can help you with:**

- Dressmaking
- Demystifying Pattern terminology
- Techniques 
- Fitting
- Upcycling
- Mending
- Alterations
- Advanced Skills
- Basic Pattern Cutting

We also have some of our own projects and patterns you can use whilst in the class. 

**Who's it for**

These sessions are for people of all sewing abilities who need some guidance or a boost of confidence. You need some sewing experience but we’re also happy to give you a refresher if you’re a bit rusty.

If you know what you're doing but you want some company whilst you sew check out our [Sewcial ](https://makemeestudio.widget.obby.co.uk/event/the-sewcial-1620766979) 

**Materials**

We have a selection of fabrics and trims in the studio which you can purchase or you can bring your own. You can bring your own machine if you want to practise on it or use ours.

Sew Your Own Way Retreat: Your Project, Your Pace, Our Guidance

louise bernard

Lovely workshop, fantastic, knowledgeable teacher!

Spend 6 blissful hours sewing.

This is an extended version of our Sew Your Own sessions (formerly sewing surgeries) will give you the help you need to make ...

Go from being a sewing novice to making your first outfit! In this course, we’ll learn the building blocks of clothes making while stitching up a sweatshirt and trouser set, suitable for all gender expressions. 

We’ll begin by making a loose fitted pair of elasticated trousers or shorts using woven fabrics. 

We’ll then move on to making the sweatshirt using stretch material. You can opt to make a raglan sleeve sweatshirt, a t-shirt or a hoodie. 

You can work at your own pace with individual attention from our experienced teachers. Best of all, you can relax, unwind and make new creative friends!

**You’ll learn:**

- How to measure your body
- How to use a sewing machine
- How to read basic pattern terminology 
- How to sew hems and finish seams
- How to make a casing to add in elastic
- How to sew pockets (optional)

**Who’s it for?**

This course is suitable for complete beginners who have never used a sewing machine before or those who have basic knowledge but want some practical clothes-making guidance.

Sewing machines and all tools will be provided but you’re welcome to bring your own.

**Sizing** 

Trouser Pattern includes sizes - XS 94cm hips - 2XL 145cm hips

Top Pattern includes sizes: 

2XS -  72cm,  28" chest to - 4XL - 130cm, 51" chest 

If you fall outside of these size ranges please get in touch and we can make a bespoke pattern for you. 

We also run this class over 2 Saturdays [click here to book] (https://makemeestudio.live.baluu.co.uk/event/learn-to-sew-casual-basics-weekend-course-1656697131)

Learn To Sew: Unisex Casual Basics 

Keith

 I learned to make a pair of lounging-about trousers which I now wear all the time at home, and a Raglan-sleeved, stretch-fabric sweater which I've worn every day to work, since. I have shown it off to work-mates and they have been astounded and amazed at my "talent" although I have been at pains to point out that my teacher (Jaime) was the reason it worked at all: informative, friendly, supportive, ever-ready to step in to avert (my own self-made) disasters, all the good things. The venue was very cool too. I aim to return and do workshops. I cannot praise Jaime and Tracey highly enough. Do it. It's extremely rewarding, good fun, and you share your time with some seriously wonderful fellow-travellers!

Rose Braithwaite

Tracey our teacher was really  informative and I learnt a lot. It was fun too with like minded people keen to learn. The class sizes here are never more than 6 (4 in our class) which means that you get all the attention that you need.  Which is great whether you’re a beginner, improver or experienced. She makes sure that the task meets your experience and challenges you a little!  Highly recommended.

Susie Harris

An absolutely thrilling experience!
Proof that it really is never too late to learn new skills. I made two professional looking items one slinky blouse and a pair of loose fitting summery/ floral pants. Jaime was so kind warm and friendly and showed infinite patience and made the whole experience so positive. The group was small (4-5) and Covid friendly with mask & social distancing. Everyone was kind and helpful. A really terrific course very well resourced. I thoroughly enjoyed it & recommend this sewing programme especially if you are a complete beginner.  

Jana Haragalova

Learn To Sew: Casual Basics 

Chi Nim

The tutor is lovely and very helpful. I came a cross a few problems during my projects (entirely not her fault). She quickly came to my aid and helped me fix them

Yulee Foster

Really enjoyed the course! Learnt a lot and can’t wait to go back for another course :)

Amy Fox

Lovely, lovely class!! Teachers are wonderful and very patient! Would recommend to everyone! No prior experience necessary. Xx 

Kate Moorby

A fantastic course, the teachers are really knowledgeable and patient and the general vibe in the class is relaxed and friendly. I have come away having made a pair of trousers and a long T-shirt dress with a funky hood! Thank you Make mee - you'll be seeing me again! 

Lucy Menage

excellent course with really lovely instructors! I thoroughly enjoyed the 6 week course and it has inspired me to continue with clothes making! I hope to join a new class soon :) 

Marlene Osei-Asante

Such fun and knowledgable tutors ! Really enjoyed the class and looking forward to the following sessions!

Marida Maiorino

The casual basic class is a great way to approach sewing. I found the entire process well structured and fun and can’t recommend it more! Thank you so much Jamie and Josh for your care, support and patience during the classes and thank you for accommodating my silly design ideas! I truly loved it and look forward to the next ones 🦋

Diana Hidalgo

Jamie and Josh are the most patient and friendly sewing instructors on earth. I have enjoyed every day at Make Mee Studio. The projects adapt to your personal taste which is great. I will definitely be back for another course :) thank you both

Rosie Offord

Loved this course! Jamie and Josh are great teachers - definitely going to be coming back for more classes. ☺️

Joseph Bonser

Even as a complete beginner I had such a great time at the class and Jamie was extremely helpful and patient, and made sure I was happy with the end product. My trousers have had multiple compliments already! Would definitely recommend

Learn to Sew: Casual Basics

James Banks

I've loved this class - patient and helpful tutors who have made everything easy and fun to do, great for a complete beginner like me - am already looking to book my next class with them

Vicky  Adnitt 

Fantastic course. As a total beginner I felt the course went at the right pace and be the end of week 4 I was confident enough to have a go at my own creations at home. The staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. I would highly recommend it. 

Vladislava  Afenlieva 

I have done a couple of the beginner courses organised by Make Mee Studio and I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. You learn the basics of sewing at your own pace, but with the support and encouragement of experienced instructors who are available to guide you, and answer any questions. The best advantage is the fact that you end up with a completed project, which as a beginner does miracles for your sewing confidence. Looking forward to taking up more classes in the future! 

Jessica Maye

Loved every minute of the Casual Basics class and am as proud as punch of my hoodie and trousers! The 6 weeks flew in and every session was so fun and informative. Amelia was a fabulous, welcoming and patient teacher and guided us all through many minor mishaps along the way - all part of the joy of learning! I’d absolutely recommend this to anyone wanting to get a grasp on the basics of garment construction and using a sewing machine! The studio is so cute too! 

Katy Jack

I feel so lucky to have this organistion in my beautiful local library! I really enjoyed the casual basics course where I made a jumper and a pair of trousers which I love!! Had very little skill beforehand but the tutors made it all feel really easy. A really friendly team create a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Highly recommend. 

Fionoualla Moriarty

The class was amazing and Janie was such an incredible and patient teacher!

Monica Kulara

Had my first session last night and it was wonderful! Jaime was very attentive and kind, she made me feel super confident even tho I had no experience at all with sewing. ;)

Valeria Toscana

Absolutely fantastic! In a short span of time I managed to have a new pair of trousers, a sweatshirt, and a lot more confidence about sewing that I completely lacked. I'll definitely be coming back for either another course or the sewing social! Would definitely recommend to anyone 

Elly Fenlon

I really enjoyed this course and learnt loads. Our teacher Amelia was amazing, and was accommodating of all our different needs (from complete beginners to more advanced beginners). I enjoyed learning how to personalise my trousers through choice of pockets, shortening them, taking them in at the sides, and using the overlocker, and I really appreciated all the help adjusting them. 

It's worth knowing that the studio has spare fabric to buy if you can't bring your own, and  the team are really flexible about making time up if you can't attend every session. So I wouldn't let either of those put you off going. 

Gaia Bini

A lovely and supporting environment for complete beginners as well as those with some experience. I've already asked for a sewing machine for my birthday ;)

Abigail  Whittingham

This is a great course! I’ve learned so much in such a short amount of time. The instructors are lovely, helpful and understanding of everyone’s abilities. They share lots of tips and the clothing you make has options so you can have different pockets and styles. Couldn’t recommend this enough. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more courses!

Sarah-Joy Lewis

Absolutely fantastic course. The teachers were so great at explaining everything and I feel much more confident sewing now. Plus I have a new favourite sweatshirt!

TSZ YAN LAM

Wonderful sewing class in South London. As a complete beginner, the class truly helped me gain the confidence I need to sew at home. I eagerly anticipate every Wednesday evening session and greatly appreciate the small class arrangement, which allows for sharing lovely moments with both the teacher and classmates.

Ali Coleman

I absolutely adored my time in the Learn to Sew: Casual Basics course! Jaime's guidance was exceptional, and within just 6 weeks, I was able to craft trousers and a sweatshirt. The small class size made learning a breeze – plenty of opportunities for assistance and questions. Highly recommend this course! Already looking forward to diving into another one with Make Mee to further hone my newfound skills.

Nisha Kelley

First class was fantastic! Really helpful, friendly teachers, great with instructions and patient answering questions from a complete beginner! Would definitely recommend, and I'm sure I'll be signing up for more.

Jennifer Filby

The whole Make mee team are so welcoming and supportive - making any sewing challenge a breeze :) 

Anja Rekeszus

Casual Basics is a great course if you want to walk home with something you would actually like to wear! 
As a complete beginner who didn't even know how to use a sewing machine initially, I'd say it was quite challenging - but in a good way, I had so much fun and was looking forward to it every week! I stretched myself, learned a lot, and am very pleased with the result. 
Varian and Emilia are the most lovely and patient teachers you could wish for. I'm definitely coming back for more!

Rebecca Upton-Jones

I did the 6 week "Learn to Sew: Casual Basics" course and it was such a joy! The instructors, Varian and Amelia, were encouraging and friendly. The overall class environment was very relaxed and welcoming. I'm genuinely sad the course is over. I finished the course with a new hobby and a pair of trousers and a t-shirt that I'm very proud of.  Would definitely recommend this to anyone who's looking to pick up a new skill. I had 0 sewing experience previously and I now feel confident about starting projects on my own. 

gabbie

So much fun, and really learned a lot! Everyone so lovely, friendly and helpful - thank you 

Isobel Sherlock

The classes have been amazing, would recommend!

Learning to sew doesn’t have to be so formal! Start your journey by making a pair of trousers and a sweatshirt. 

Sew What? Patch & Stitch Rework Workshop @ Circle Collective

Age Requirement