Mending at Middleton

I'm catching up on the events I've attended during the past month, starting with the Second-Hand Heritage Open Day at Middleton Hall on the 7th September. I was invited to host a stand for this free day of sustainable craft and living which also coincided with the opening of their second-hand book shop.

I joined volunteers from this Grade II listed building who were showcasing ways in which they lived sustainably in a world filled with consumerism. Environmental sustainability is embedded in the Hall which has itself been the subject of a restoration project since the 1970's.

There were a variety of skills on offer during the day including crochet, sewing, printing and weaving. There were opportunities to speak to the volunteers about the history of the Hall's restoration and to introduce old ideas to new people.

I took along a rail of curated vintage clothing and upcycled designs as examples of how old clothing can be repaired and repurposed to live on. I offered the chance to pick up a needle and thread and try traditional darning or sample Sashiko stitching. Throughout the day I had some wonderful conversations around mending and upcycling with visitors to the Hall meeting interesting people and learning how important clothing was to so many.

It was a beautiful setting and I was in the best company alongside some talented crafting folk who I was able to connect with making new alliances.

Thank you to the staff at Middleton Hall for inviting me along, I'll look forward to future events as it is an excellent place to demonstrate the importance of sustainability.