FASHION REBELLION ONLINE ECO-SEWING WORKSHOPS
Amanda Riley is a Fashion Designer & environmentalist. She has been teaching complete beginners the art of diy fashion and eco-sewing since 2009.
After realising the horrendous environmental impact of fashion she started her masterclass workshops, The Fashion Factory, for 8-16 year olds as an antidote to fast fashion. “ I saw an increase in technology & social media use & the reduction of practical & creative subjects in schools. Many children are missing out on life skills, creativity, dexterity & the ability to focus. I felt I had to do something”
“My eco-sewing programme focuses on learning via upcycling unwanted textiles into cool new stuff. The products & video lessons are designed to keep young people engaged and coming back for more. I’ve ripped up the sewing rule books and introduced a new way of learning this hugely rewarding life skill.”
Amanda and two of her students feature in the documentary Generation rewear. Aired at London Fashion Week in June 2021 it is a documentary about designers, brands & everyday people at the forefront of sustainable fashion.
Where it all started. The Fashion Factory studio in NW London & some of my talented students. A glimpse of how we started & one of our catwalk shows.
“I have been really impressed at the amount of ambitious sewing skills that my daughter has learnt with Amanda and from quite a young age. The projects are trendy and inspiring with very rewarding results. I think my daughter is so lucky to be able to do the classes - something I would have adored to do when I was a child. It is even more special to learn these skills since sewing is not something that schools can fit into the curriculum today.”
Emily Paley, mum
“My daughter beamed with pride at making something both practical and stylish - all thanks to the guiding hand of Amanda who has a can do approach and a great eye for detail. It is more than just learning to sew - boosting confidence and fuelling a passion for design.”
Claire Aylmer, mum