A stitch in time saves nine — and it could save you money and help the planet too. High Life Highland libraries are hosting a series of free workshops designed to help people repair, alter and upcycle their clothing.
The Clothes Doctor drop-in sessions are part of our Cultivating Climate Champions initiative. These practical, creative clinics are led by award-winning seamstress Sarah James-Gaukroger — better known as the Highland Clothes Doctor.
Participants get the chance to learn practical mending techniques, build their sewing skills, and find creative ways to give old or damaged garments a new lease of life. Sarah also brings along a curiosity corner of antique and quirky sewing accessories, plus reimagined garments showing how clothing can be transformed rather than thrown away.
A lifelong passion for sewing
Sarah's love of sewing goes back to childhood. "Three relatives taught me to sew from a very young age and inspired a lifelong passion for sewing, crafts and make-do-and-mend," she said. "These are the skills I want to pass on to others so they can experience the same satisfaction, creativity and joy."
She went on to study fashion and design at art college and has kept refining her craft ever since. "I make the majority of my professional wardrobe and regularly reimagine vintage pieces to give them a new lease of life. I love colour, creativity and connecting with people, and these workshops are a fantastic opportunity to share practical skills that help both individuals and the environment."
Sarah's work has been recognised with several awards over the years, including being chosen as one of only 19 women selected by Liberty of London to model her own creation as part of the store's 175th anniversary celebrations. She was also commissioned by the Spirit 360 Project to create a mythical magpie's nest, now on display at The Inverness Castle Experience.
Why it matters
The workshops support wider efforts to reduce textile waste and encourage sustainable habits, at a time when many households are looking for ways to save money and make better use of what they already own.
Around 350,000 tonnes of used but still wearable clothing is sent to landfill in the UK every year, while more than 60 per cent of UK households report storing unwanted clothes and textiles at home.
Julie Corcoran, Head of Libraries at High Life Highland, said: "Learning how to repair or alter clothing is a valuable skill that can save money, reduce waste and help people make more sustainable choices. In the current cost-of-living climate, as well as from an environmental perspective, being able to extend the life of clothing has never been more important."
She added: "These sessions perfectly reflect the role libraries can play in supporting learning, sharing skills and helping communities take positive action for the environment."
When and where
The first workshop took place at Fortrose Library, aimed at secondary school pupils. Five more free sessions are open to everyone during September and October:
- Dingwall: 11 September, 2pm–4pm
- Culloden: 26 September, 10.30am–12.30pm
- Thurso: 9 October, 1pm–3pm
- Fort William: 23 October, 2pm–4pm
- Ullapool: 30 October, 10.30am–12.30pm
The Clothes Doctor clinics are part of our Green Libraries initiative, funded by the Scottish Government and administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC).
Get in touch to find out more
Contact your local library for details on the free Clothes Doctor sessions.
