Upcycling and Sustainable Sewing Classes

Classes

Sewing on a button seems such a trivial thing, but knowing how to do it can reduce the amount of textile waste from landfill or incineration.

Textile waste is a growing component of the waste landscape. It’s found strewn across the Atacama desert in Chile, it’s shipped around the globe on cargo ships, and it’s taking up space in landfills everywhere. The problem grows exponentially when considering that 60% of clothing made over the last decade is petroleum based synthetics. When washed and dried in machines these textiles shed loads of microplastics into the air, water and soil.

We’re teaching sewing and upcycling skills to youth and adults as a way to keep these textiles out of the waste stream. We teach the care of clothing to minimize microplastics and how to identify quality fabrics that will last a lifetime with some repair skills.

PLEASE NOTE: As of Oct. 1, 2025, a new Washington Dept of Revenue state law (ESSB 5814) requires that live classes now be taxed when sold, which means we must charge sales tax for our classes. Thank you!

See our events calendar for an overall view of all our Mend-it cafes and classes, you can also check out our classes below.

Sustainable Sewing Classes

  • Pink sewing machine with butterfly and star decorations, promoting sustainable sewing and zero waste, with text about getting to know your sewing machine.

    Sustainable Sewing: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine


    Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 5:30 – 8:00 PM

    In this beginner-focused hands-on class, you’ll learn the basics of machine sewing including, getting to know the parts of a machine, sewing machine maintenance (how to clean, change a needle, and wind a bobbin), and how to use a sewing machine to create a small project using fabric scraps and secondhand items. Use of machines, and all supplies are included.

    Cost: 35.00 plus sales tax
    Please be sure to register for the class, it’s required due to limited spaces available.

    Class Location: 
    Spokane Zero Waste Classroom

    2026 N. Hamilton St (cross street Ermina)

    Spokane, WA 99207

    Sign Up
  • Needle Felting

    Beginning Needle Felting


    Wed, June 17, 2026 5:30 – 7:30 PM

    Discover the art of needle felting in this fun, beginner-friendly class! Learn how to transform soft wool into a unique felted patch creation using simple needle-felting techniques. Students will be introduced to essential tools, materials, and safety practices while creating a small project to take home.

    In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to shape wool, blend colors, add details, and build texture as you create your own unique felted patch. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and curiosity.

    All materials are provided, and you'll leave with a completed project, new skills, and the confidence to continue exploring this relaxing and rewarding fiber art.

    Cost: 50.00 plus sales tax
    Please be sure to register for the class, it’s required due to limited spaces available.

    Class Location: 
    Spokane Zero Waste Classroom

    2026 N. Hamilton St (cross street Ermina)

    Spokane, WA 99207

    Sign Up

  • Sustainable Sewing: Introduction to Upcycling


    Saturday, June 20, 2026 10-Noon

    In this hands-on class, taught by local upcycle designer Tori Thurman, you’ll learn tips and tricks to begin your upcycling journey. We'll cover common upcycling techniques including, basic hand-stitch embroidery, reverse applique, how to create and attach a patch using a sewing machine, and even how to replace buttons. You'll also create an upcycle workbook, and participate in a mini upcycle fashion show using sustainable materials.

    Use of machines, and all supplies are included.

    Cost: 35.00 plus sales tax
    Please be sure to register for the class, it’s required due to limited spaces available.

    Class Location: 
    Spokane Zero Waste Classroom

    2026 N. Hamilton St (cross street Ermina)

    Spokane, WA 99207

    Sign Up

  • Sustainable Sewing: Upcycle with Denim

    Saturday, June 20, 2026 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM

    In this hands-on class, taught by local upcycle designer Tori Thurman, you’ll learn tips and tricks for upcycling with denim. We'll cover common techniques including, repairing a hole with patches and visible mending, adding applique or embroidery to cover stains, how to reinforce high stress areas to strengthen the fabric, and even a brief overview of denim patchwork. You'll practice what you’ve learned using sustainable materials, and have the option of bringing an item from home to upcycle.

    Use of machines, and all supplies are included.

    Prerequisites: Basic machine and hand sewing skills required

    Cost: 40.00 plus sales tax
    Please be sure to register for the class, it’s required due to limited spaces available.

    Class Location: Spokane Zero Waste Classroom 2026 North Hamilton St (cross street Ermina)

    Spokane, WA 99207

    Sign Up
  • pink sewing machine for classes

    Sustainable Sewing: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine

    Saturday, July 11th, 2026 9:30 – Noon

    In this beginner-focused hands-on class, you’ll learn the basics of machine sewing including, getting to know the parts of a machine, sewing machine maintenance (how to clean, change a needle, and wind a bobbin), and how to use a sewing machine to create a small project using fabric scraps and secondhand items. Use of machines, and all supplies are included.

    Cost: 35.00 plus sales tax
    Please be sure to register for the class, it’s required due to limited spaces available.

    Class Location: 
    Spokane Zero Waste Classroom

    2026 N. Hamilton St (cross street Ermina)

    Spokane, WA 99207

    Sign Up