University of Exeter hosts clothes mending workshop

On Monday, 18th November, at the Forum on the Streatham Campus, volunteers from Topsham and other repair cafés taught University of Exeter students and staff how to mend and make their own clothes.

This event was part of the university’s efforts to reduce waste and transition to a circular economy in collaboration with Exeter Students’ Guild and local repair cafés.

The event was a big success, with people attending to learn new skills such as darning, knitting, and crocheting.

One student, Jack, said: “Thanks so much – now I can go and mend my jeans myself.”

Jo Chamberlain, the University’s Director of Sustainability, commented: “It was great to see so many staff and students learning new skills that they can use in their daily lives.

“This event is part of a drive by the University to reduce waste and encourage us all to think about how to extend the life of items we already have – rather than throwing them away or buying new.”

The university is planning future events and is looking into establishing its own repair café on site.