26 Jun Reviving Fashion & Community: Repair and Upcycling Sessions at FC Designer Collective

Nestled in the heart of Islington, Fonthill Road has long been a vibrant hub for fashion and textiles — a legacy that continues with a modern twist. The FC Designer Collective shop is not only a place where fashion lives but where it is reimagined, repaired, and revived through a growing community movement.

Twice a month, the shop opens its doors for Drop-In Repair and Upcycling sessions, where creativity meets sustainability in the most practical and welcoming way. Supported by Islington Council, these sessions are more than a chance to mend a hem or sew on a missing button — they are about extending the life of our clothes and reconnecting with the community.

On June 24th, the latest session showcased just how diverse and resourceful these gatherings can be. Attendees worked on everything from transforming scrap fabrics into unique tote bags to repairing much-loved shirts, summer dresses, occasionwear, and even household items like curtains. Each stitch told a story of care, of preserving something rather than discarding it.

The drop-in format offers flexibility for those with busy schedules while maintaining a warm, inclusive environment where people of all skill levels can receive advice, borrow industrial sewing machines, or simply be inspired by the projects around them.

“These sessions are about more than just saving clothes,” said a local participant. “They help us rethink our relationship with fashion and connect us with others who care about sustainability.”

Thanks to the ongoing support from Islington Council, the sessions are completely free — a rare and invaluable resource for anyone keen on repair, upcycling, or simply learning a new skill. Participants only need to register in advance to secure their spot.

Whether you’re an experienced sewer or picking up a needle for the first time, the FC Designer Collective welcomes you to be part of this hands-on, community-powered movement.

The next drop-in session takes place on Tuesday, 8th July. Come along, bring your projects, and become part of a growing effort to make fashion more sustainable — one stitch at a time.