We offer community circles and private programs. To host a program, read this overview then fill out the form at the bottom.
Community Circles
Community circles are open to the public and posted on our calendar.
Hosting partners provide the space and funding. Programs are free to participants.
Private Programs
Private programs are arranged in advance for organizations and individuals.
Programs are adapted to the organization’s or individual’s purpose, schedule, occasion, and size – supporting educational and corporate programs and private learning.
What to expect
At both our community circles and private programs, participants bring clothing and other textiles in need of mending and learn skills, leaving with repaired clothing, new skills, new friends, and a renewed sense of community.
Art on the Mend provides:
- Lead Mend-tor Alison Davis-Holland to lead and share mending skills
- Skilled Mend-tors to assist
- All tools and materials
- Visibly mended clothing examples
- Illustrated instructions
Duration: Two hours
Frequency: One-time program or a recurring series.
Size:
- Private lessons for individuals and up to four people.
- Small groups of up to 15 people are ideal for a circle.
- Larger groups can be accommodated with additional Mend-tor support.
Cost: Pricing varies depending on program content. Please contact us below for a custom quotation.
What people say
“There’s a big sense of accomplishment when you can mend things that are good enough to actually keep on wearing!”
“Having the circle has been great as someone in their later twenties trying to make new friends outside of work.”
“I come away with new friends, new ideas, fixed clothing and a growing passion for the art of mending.”
“Great to be with creative people who share ideas – it’s brought out some creativity I didn’t know I had.”
“Attending Art on the Mend circles have really brightened my life.”
“My husband says I always come home in a good mood and very happy after our meet-ups – the group sparks joy!”
“I recently found myself with time to tackle these projects as I undergo a life transition and this circle provides me with community while I figure out next steps in a healthy way and I get to mend my clothes. Win-win!”
“The approach (group-focused instruction and community-generating) of Art on the Mend is very supportive and encouraging, so that it feels easy to continue making progress at home.”
“The circle is friendly and welcoming. Not only do we share our projects that we are working on but parts of our lives.”
Why host a circle
Mending circles are good for your body, brain, community, and the planet. They improve community engagement, sustainability, mental and physical health, and creativity.
Read more about Why Mending Circles Matter.
Who can host
Anyone with space for creating community! Mending circles are well-suited for organizations whose missions include art, wellness, sustainability, community building, or lifelong learning. This can include:
- Arts & cultural organizations
- Wellness & healthcare programs
- Schools & universities
- Community spaces like libraries and community centers
Ready to get started?
Share your vision and let us craft a program for you.
Our hosting partners include:
Art on the Mend 