Mend

I first started mending my clothing while in college and was exploring stitching and patching garments to meet a certain look. I was learning to weave, thrifting a majority of my clothes, trying to make it on very little money. Those early days in my adult life was about exploring and learning about sustainable fashion and art . When I look back at the craftsmanship of my work, it was messy and would not bode very well as a grade in my course today, which makes me smile as an instructor, but it worked for a young woman who was finding her style. I am proud of this person who was searching and trying new things.

Currently, I am a 50 something who has continued mending her clothing over the years, however, we refer to repairing as Visible Mending in these modern times. Mending for me is still about achieving a look, but as I’ve continued to work on my craftsmanship over 30 years as a fiber artist, I believe that I have found a way to make a mended look work for a woman who will continue to wear visibly mended clothing for years to come. This version includes a clean and intentionally designed repairs that makes one of a kind garments unique by simply using leftover denim and some string.

Sustainability is at the forefront of my mending practice and purchases. I fondly look back to one of the most influential movies of my youth - ‘Pretty in Pink’ - where Molly Ringwald first helped bring thrifting to my life. Making the choice to buy second hand clothing is not only sustainable, but financially beneficial to a person who loves to style outside the box. Having said this, please note that I am not a purist and there are items of clothing and accessories that are purchased new - my goal is to be conscious about where I purchase these items and do my best. All in all, mending goes hand in hand with striving to live a sustainable life.

Finally, I’ve been fortunate to teach visible mending classes and workshops at local shops, art centers, as a demonstrator for events, and cities in the Midwest. Teaching mending gives the opportunity to not only learn a skill, but to gather in community, to discuss the importance of being mindful and sharing how simple steps can lead to a practice that is good for humanity and our precious earth.