Sewing Is An Act Of Rebellion
Sewing is an act of rebellion.
Really? In what way?
This is what we discussed at the first session of our community sewcial in September 2026.
In the middle of the table were fabric scraps, threads, embellishments, scissors and needles...and there was no agenda, nothing particular to make, no brief, no pattern, no finished product in mind. For everyone around the table, that felt revolutionary in itself. We're busy people. We don't have time to sew for no reason, no purpose, no outcome in mind.
As we picked up a needle and rummaged through buttons however, time slowed down. We became engrossed. The outside world faded away. There was no judgement, no comparisons. We all simply did our own thing. And it was really regenerative and refreshing.
We started to unpack the notion of sewing as an act of rebellion.
In terms of sustainability, sewing allows us to repair and alter clothing, keeping it in circulation for longer and thwarting the fast fashion industry that depends on us buying new. Sewing allows us to make and upcycle our own clothes, expressing our individuality and making clothes that fit us perfectly - again, another act of rebellion against the fast fashion industry.
In terms of wellbeing, sewing forces us to slow down. We have to take our time. We can't rush. Making our own clothes is not instant. We then appreciate the process and the finished product all the more. The repetitive nature of it and using our hands soothe our souls. We're not doom scrolling, we're not obsessing about all the things that make us anxious. We are present. We are focussed. We're taking time out for ourselves.
We can be alone with our sewing or join together in community as we were doing that evening. There are online communities and face to face groups for all types of sewing and crafting. Being with others can combat isolation. Finding a place to belong with like-minded people is invaluable.
A needle may not seem like a tool of rebellion. In fact, some of us around that table on that evening did not believe that it was. And that's absolutely fine. We can hold different opinions and still gather together. Sewing for me is counter cultural. It stands against fast fashion and the need to follow a trend. It encourages me to express my individuality, not be forced into a way of dressing and being that is not right for me.
When we entered that room, none of us knew what to expect but we left feeling renewed and inspired, having bonded over a love for sewing and a love for the planet.
If that sounds like you, check out our events page to find out when the next session is and we'll see you there!
