Orkney Library & Archive is one of the first Scottish public libraries to open a Lend & Mend Hub as part of a trailblazing project funded by the John Lewis Circular Future Fund. The idea behind the scheme is to give people free access to equipment and skills so that they can repair, reuse, and recycle everyday items, saving themselves money and helping the local environment by reducing waste.
Although the Lend & Mend Hub will eventually cover a range of different skills, the first phase will focus on mending, reusing and upcycling clothing and other fabric items. For this we have a number of sewing machines, an overlocker, an embroidery machine, dressmakers dummies and a range of other useful equipment.
Members who are already experienced at using sewing machines can book a space to use the Lend & Mend Hub whenever they want during our normal opening hours. All users will need to have a short induction on their first visit to familiarise them with the space and equipment.
There is a short safety video about using the Lend & Mend Hub below followed by a video guide to using the machines safely.
Upcoming Courses & Sessions
Anyone who would like to use the space and equipment but are inexperienced or need some help can register an interest in one of our free short courses. At these sessions experienced tutors and volunteers will provide training on how to use the equipment and they’ll offer guidance to help you approach your own projects in the best way.
Each course will begin by helping you find your way around the sewing machine before moving on to a range of simple projects that will provide you with the skills you need to complete your own repairs and upcycling projects. You’ll learn how to use different stitches for different tasks, how to cut and pin fabric accurately, how to sew seams, add zips, make buttonholes and lots more.
In the Lend & Mend Hub we have sewing machines, an embroidery machine and an overlocker for public use. Users who feel confident using the equipment unsupervised are welcome to begin using the Lend & Mend Hub whenever they like during our normal opening hours. It is recommended that inexperienced users join one of our introductory classes before using the hub on their own.
Classes will be advertised here and on our social media pages as they become available but you can also get in touch for more information.
To book a machine or space in the Lend & Mend Hub, to register for a training session, or for any further help or information please contact us on 01856 873166 or email library@orkney.gov.uk.
You can download the manuals for our sewing machines, overlocker and embroidery machine by following the links below.
Brother F540 Embroidery Machine
