Sustainable Sewing & Upcycling
Learn sustainable sewing and creative upcycling with our sewing and textiles short course in Sydney! Bring your fabric scraps, old clothes, or unfinished sewing projects and turn them into something new and exciting. This upcycling sewing course gives textiles a second life while enhancing your sewing skills and confidence.
With fashion waste being a growing environmental concern, this four-session course empowers students to make a positive impact. You'll design practical upcycled projects, deconstruct garments, and experiment with creative sewing techniques to breathe new life into forgotten fabric.
Students will complete at least two original projects, such as transforming old jeans into tote bags or turning scraps into cushion covers. You'll also learn zero-waste practices to continue sustainable sewing at home. This course is led by a fashion industry professional and sustainability advocate, perfect for those with basic sewing experience.
Course Outline
- Understanding upcycling, recycling, and fabric reuse
- Deconstructing garments and harvesting materials
- Creative techniques: appliqué, patchworking, slashing
- Planning and completing multiple upcycled projects
- Zero-waste sewing strategies and finishing techniques
Schedule & Pricing
- Start Date: 19 February 2026
- End Date: 12 March 2026
- Time: Thursdays, 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Duration: 4 sessions
- Price: $309
Accessibility Note
This class takes place on the second floor and is accessible by stairs only. We apologize for any inconvenience as the lift is currently out of service.
Details
You will learn
- Apply creative sewing techniques like appliqué and patchworking
- Deconstruct old garments to reuse fabric and trims
- Design and complete original upcycled sewing projects
You will get
- Complete at least two original upcycled projects
- Hands-on experience with sustainable sewing methods
- Inspiration to continue upcycling beyond the course
Appropriate for
Confident beginners with basic sewing skills who are interested in sustainable fashion and upcycling.
Preparation
What to bring
- Sewing machine (optional), thread, bobbins and needles
- Old garments, scraps, trims and other upcycling materials
- Scissors, rotary cutter, pins, A3 paper and interfacing
What to wear
Closed-toe shoes required
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Sustainable Sewing & Upcycling
Book soon! 24 people viewed this class.
Be the first to know when this class has new dates! Add your email to the waitlist.
Your Next Adventure Starts Here
Join thousands of learners exploring new skills and passions. Whether online or in person, our classes are designed to inspire, connect, and bring joy to learning. Start your journey today!
Explore classes