This week’s workshops are giving young people hands-on experience with sewing while connecting traditional ribbon skirt making with contemporary fashion.

The ribbon skirt workshops continued this week with youth spending plenty of time at the sewing machines, working through the last stages of their skirts and learning as they go. Youth started their projects on Monday, August 10 at the Dyment Recreation Hall.

With fabric cut and designs taking shape, the focus has now shifted to putting everything together. The youth are practising straight stitching, getting more comfortable with the sewing machines, working through seams and learning the small finishing techniques that make a handmade garment feel complete. Alongside the sewing, they are also getting an introduction to basic garment design and how different fabrics, ribbons and details can work together.

The workshops are rooted in traditional skills, but the young makers are putting their own ideas into what they create. Colour choices, ribbon placement, fabric combinations and personal style all have a place in the process. The result is a collection of skirts that are connected to tradition while also reflecting the people making them.

There has been plenty of focus in the room this week, particularly when someone is working through a tricky seam or learning a new part of the machine. There is also lots of conversation and plenty of excitement as the skirts get closer to being finished.

It is a practical, creative way for youth to learn skills they can take with them while making something meaningful, useful and completely their own.

Special thanks to everyone at the Art Borups Corners Society for making this amazing experience possible!