Workshops

Experience Fabric Alchemy hands-on, and be educated by research-driven information.

The Upcycle Workshops are a thoughtful approach to intentional design + education that provides participants with a two-part experience. The first half of each workshop offers research and informational discussion about the impacts of outdated textile systems on predominantly Black terrestrial ecosystems + ecosystems populated by persons of the global majority. The second half of each workshop uses ancestral methods like repurposing and regenerative design to reimagine the use of textile waste in a project-based approach.

Applying a combination of her own ancestral knowledge, and over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry with an overlap in education, fashion design, and supply chain management, each workshop Mahdiyyah facilitates is given with intention, purpose, and a successful experience for participants.

Offered Workshops

  • Denim Paper - Upcycled Stationery

    In this workshop, participants will transform old denim into functional stationery items such as notebooks, cards, and gift tags. Using denim scraps and other fabric waste, you'll apply eco-friendly techniques to create unique, upcycled paper products. Learn how to reimagine everyday materials and gain valuable skills in reducing waste while crafting stylish, sustainable stationery.

  • Siddi (Kawandi) Quilting Workshop

    Explore the beauty of traditional Black and Indigenous quilt-making techniques with this hands-on workshop. Participants will learn the art of Kawandi, a unique method of hand-stitched quilting rooted in African and Indigenous cultures. Using upcycled textiles, participants will create their own intricate quilted design while learning about the historical significance and regenerative practices that honor ancestral methods of sustainability.

  • Upcycled Textile Art Workshop

    Transform fabric waste into beautiful, one-of-a-kind art pieces in this creative workshop. Participants will explore the art of textile collage, combining discarded fabrics into vibrant, textured compositions. Through this hands-on project, you'll learn how to creatively upcycle textiles while gaining insight into the impact of textile waste on the environment and how art can play a role in sustainable design.

  • No-Sew Upcycled Tote Bag

    Create a practical and stylish upcycled tote bag in this beginner-friendly workshop, no sewing required! Using pre-loved fabrics, participants will learn simple techniques like knotting, folding, and lacing to make functional and fashionable tote bags. Along the way, you'll gain knowledge about sustainability, textile waste, and how easy it can be to reduce your environmental footprint with creative upcycling.

  • Upcycled Mini Keychains Workshop

    Create a small but meaningful upcycled accessory with this hands-on keychain workshop. Using textile scraps, participants will hand sew mini keychains, learning basic stitching techniques along the way. This workshop combines creativity with sustainability, showing how even the smallest items can have a big impact on reducing textile waste and promoting eco-conscious living.

“As one of East New York Farms!’s workshop facilitators, Mahdiyyah was a pleasure to work with from beginning to end. Her workshop titled “Reap What You Sew”, which instructed people how to sew a reusable bag, brought together people of all ages and skill-level. She is an organized facilitator and an attentive instructor. Mahdiyyah’s evident passion for her craft established a learning environment that promoted curiosity and connection. Mahdiyyah is welcome back anytime. Thank you, Mahdiyyah!”

Upcycling and Sustainable Fashion are not only creative and practical solutions to environmental challenges but also valuable learning tools in various settings. These topics encourage you to think critically about waste, consumerism, and
creativity, fostering a sense of responsibility for the planet.

Through hands-on projects in workshops, you gain the skills to transform old clothing into new fashion pieces, while also developing important life skills like problem-solving. teamwork, and resourcefulness.

Art spaces, from galleries to community centers, offer a perfect environment for exploring upcycled fashion as an art form. These workshops provide artists and creators with new mediums to express themselves while contributing to a more sustainable world. Participants learn how to merge design with environmental consciousness, resulting in unique,
eco-friendly pieces that spark conversations about sustainability in the art world.

In employee training, sustainable fashion workshops promote a culture of innovation and environmental stewardship within companies.
By introducing employees to the principles of upcycling, organizations can foster sustainability, reduce waste, and even promote creativity within their workforce. This kind of training aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and enhances brand reputation.

Ready to dive into upcycling and sustainable fashion? Book a workshop today and empower your classroom, team or creative space with practical skills and meaningful insights into sustainable fashion. Let's transform the way we think about fashion, creativity, and our environment-one stitch at a time!