Make Do and Mend

There's a huge interest in craft again among younger people. Recycling, upcycling, remaking and redesigning clothes and knitwear, using vintage patterns and fabrics to create something that reflects the individual. It's the direct opposite of high street fashion where everyone looks and dresses the same. Back in the 1940s a make do and mend approach was a necessity, not a creative choice or an expression of individuality.There's a corner of the Old House Museum in Bakewell that reflects a time when everyone darned socks, turned up hems, let out blouses and remade dresses. Amongst the collection are buttons and templates for patchworks, embroidery threads and sewing kits. We would love to see young people using the museum's collections to explore craft and creativity. They could take inspiration from the clothes in the collection. They could explore the possibilities of using traditional techniques and sewing kits. We are hoping to make links with local schools and students to do this. If you know anyone who might be interested, please contact the Old House Museum through this blog.