Visible Mending & Darning Workshops in Amsterdam
Join a hands-on visible mending or darning workshop in Amsterdam with artist Bronwen Jones. In these sessions you’ll explore the art of textile repair — from woven darning to sashiko that celebrate the beauty of mended garments. These workshops are suitable for beginners and all skill levels; no experience is necessary.
Upcoming workshop dates:Saturday
16 January 2027 2-5pm – Sashiko workshop
Saturday 30 January 2027 2-5pm – Darning workshop
Saturday 13 February 2027 2-5pm – Swiss darning workshop
Location:The workshops take place in my studio in Amsterdam: Marius van Bouwdijk Bastiaansestraat 35, 1054 RS, Amsterdam, NL
Details:
This series of three workshops cover the main techniques I use in my practice and will give you a good foundation for repairing both knitted and woven fabrics. You can find examples and descriptions of each technique below. You’re welcome to sign up for one, two, or all three workshops.
Each workshop begins with a short introduction of the technique and a look at some examples. We will practice on sample fabrics before moving onto your own garments. With a maximum of eight participants per workshop, there will be plenty of time for individual guidance and questions. As we work, we’ll also explore the sentimental and emotional value of our clothes and the stories they hold.
You will learn different approaches to repairing holes and worn areas in knitted and woven fabrics, and how to choose the right techniques, threads and materials for different repairs. By the end of each workshop, you will develop the skills and confidence to continue experimenting with and repairing your clothes at home.
No previous experience is necessary. Complete beginners are welcome, as are those with some experience who would like to develop their skills further.
CostOne workshop costs €75, or if you book more than one workshop in a series there is a discount price of €60 per workshop. This includes materials and tea/coffee.
Sign up:To sign up, send me an email at bronwen.yj@gmail.com stating which workshop(s) you would like to attend. I will send a payment link to confirm your place.
~Sashiko, inspired by the Japanese repair technique, is used to reinforce thinning areas or repair holes in woven fabrics. It can be applied to cotton, silk, linen, denim, or similar woven fabrics, using a patch and a series of running stitches.
~Darning is a technique used to repair holes in knitted fabrics (or thick woven fabrics like a blanket) by creating a woven structure within the material.
~Swiss darning is a technique that replicates the knit stitch. It can be used to repair holes, to strengthen thinning areas, or as an embellishment. It is best for chunky knits.
*I recommend taking the swiss darning workshop either after doing the woven darning workshop or if you already have some experience with knitting, as it’s a more advanced technique.