Learn to Darn – Knitwear Repair Workshop

Duration: 2.5 hours

Discover the traditional craft of darning and learn how to repair and extend the life of your favourite knitwear in this hands-on, two-and-a-half-hour workshop, led by Madeline Tanoto (Mads Do & Mend CIC).

Darning is a timeless repair technique that has become increasingly relevant as more of us look for practical ways to care for our clothes, reduce waste and build a more sustainable wardrobe. Whether you prefer visible repairs that celebrate the mend or subtle repairs that blend into the fabric, darning is a practical and rewarding skill that you can continue to use at home for years to come.

During this workshop you'll learn the fundamentals of woven darning through step-by-step practical instruction, including:

• Traditional woven darning

• Visible darning techniques

• Different approaches to repairing holes and worn areas

• Choosing the right tools, yarns and materials for different repairs

Please note: This workshop focuses on woven darning and does not cover Swiss darning (also known as duplicate stitch or invisible knit repair). Swiss darning is a different repair technique and will be offered as a separate workshop.

By the end of the session, you'll have the confidence to repair holes and worn areas in your knitwear and understand how to continue developing your skills at home.

All materials are provided. You're welcome to bring a woollen item from home to mend, such as a jumper, cardigan, scarf or a pair of wool socks with holes or worn areas. We'll also provide recycled wool swatches for practice, so you can work on these if you prefer before tackling your own garment.

This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as anyone looking to refresh or build on their repair skills.

Please note: All workshops are non-refundable.

MADELINE TANOTO – PERSONAL INFO/ BIO

Madeline Tanoto is a designer-maker, textile educator and founder of Mads Do & Mend CIC, with over 20 years' experience across fashion, textiles, design and education. She specialises in visible mending and creative repair, helping people build confidence in extending the life of their clothes through practical, sustainable skills.

Madeline creates welcoming, inclusive workshops that celebrate repair as both a creative practice and a way to connect with others. Through Mads Do & Mend CIC, she delivers community textile projects and mending programmes in partnership with organisations including CP Company, Lewisham Council, Southwark Council, Veolia and Fine Cell Work, alongside charities, housing associations and local community groups.

Her mission is simple: to empower individuals and communities to mend their clothes—and themselves—through craft, creativity and connection.