• Skip to main content
  • about
  • Resources
  • Contact
David Owen Hastings - Design + Art + Textiles
  • quilts
  • collages
  • lectures
  • workshops
  • calendar
David Owen Hastings - Design + Art + Textiles
  • quilts
  • collages
  • lectures
  • workshops
  • calendar
  • about
  • resources
  • contact
  • search

Workshop: Visible Mending

May 31, 2022 by David Owen Hastings

  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-01B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-02B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-03B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-04B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-05B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-06B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-01B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-02B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-03B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-04B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-05B
  • DOH-Workshop-VisibleMending-Slider-06B

Visible mending is a current trend which combines many historic handwork techniques, such as Japanese sashiko and boro, Indian kantha, and even All-American flower-power embroidery from the 1960s. 

Slow stitching is good for the heart, and the planet

3 hours: Denim blue jeans and jackets are perfect garments to practice this blend of decorative repair work. Enjoy the process of unplugging, letting go, and stitching without a plan. Learn a series of techniques for adding texture, design, and structural repair to your favorite garments. 

Visible mending can also be a decorative element added to quilts and home goods. There’s something about old-meets-new that is so appealing. A PDF materials list will be emailed to participants in advance, and tips for purchasing starter kits will be shared.

Workshop Overview

  • Get a short introduction to mending traditions from a range of cultures, including 1960s America.
  • Learn about types of thread, fabric and tools for visible mending.
  • Using a worn garment, or some practice fabric, prepare to stitch!
  • This is a very simple and relaxing technique, and I will share tips for getting great results.

A complete PDF materials list, plus step-by-step notes and templates, will be emailed to each participant. Class sizes are limited to ensure one-on-one time. 

This is an all-levels class. You should be comfortable threading a needle, how easy is that? I look forward to sharing and sewing with you!

“Thank for your thorough class. I am excited about the future possibilities of upcycling and designing my own clothes.”

avatar

Christine

Visible Mending student

“Well done! I sure enjoyed your Visible Mending workshop yesterday. You did a stellar job. The time flew by, it was a perfect pace. I had to pay full attention. As expected my stitching was slow, but I feel confident that I can continue on my own with the skills you taught. I appreciated your playful approach, and your acknowledgment of the origin of the techniques. Cool cool! I’m happy to have a different analog activity to practice and enjoy.”

avatar

Leslie

Visible Mending student

Workshop Details

This workshop is available virtually using Zoom technology, as well as for in person events. It is 3 hours long with a short break halfway through.

Contact David if you are interested in booking this workshop for your guild.

Contact David

Contact David

Copyright © 2026 David Owen Hastings. All Rights Reserved.