DU’s Sewing Club fosters skills, community and inclusivity
For students at the University of Denver, creativity and community come together in the DU Sewing Club, a space where needlework enthusiasts and newcomers alike gather to explore the art of sewing, crochet, and embroidery. Established five years ago, the club has grown from a small group of founders to a community of around 100 members. Holding two weekly meetings full of conversation, music and creativity, the club’s popularity speaks to its inclusive, beginner-friendly environment.
A Welcoming Place for All Skill Levels
The DU Sewing Club has created a space where people of all levels can learn and grow. “No experience is necessary,” shared Alex Eubanks, a new board member of the group, who joined the club at the encouragement of her friend.
Eubanks was inspired by the welcoming vibe and collaborative spirit.
“There’s something kind and supportive about everyone here,” she said, explaining how the club reaches out with resources, guidance and more through their meetings and social media presence.
Newcomers find the environment particularly encouraging, with board members experienced in various forms of needlework, from sewing to embroidery, guiding those who are just beginning their journey. The club holds open workshops every Wednesday, where members can simply “show up and create,” and organized sessions on Thursdays, which focus on specific projects or techniques. Both settings allow members to learn at their own pace, listening to music (in today’s case, Brat by Charli XCX) and working on whatever they feel inspired to create.
Resources to Fuel Creativity
One of the club’s biggest draws is its well-stocked arsenal of resources. Members don’t need to come loaded with a tomato pin cushion or Stinger sewing machine, the club provides five sewing machines, three embroidery machines and plenty of scrap fabric. The club offers members a plethora of options to dive into sewing without financial barriers.
“We have patterns, sewing machines, fabric and even embroidery machines,” Eubanks said. She added that members can access these tools to bring their creative visions to life.
Club members also collaborate on group projects, such as crafting tote bags, allowing members to explore their creativity. By offering materials and equipment, the club aims to break down the barriers to entry, making it easier for students to try their hand at needlework, even if they’ve never sewn a stitch before.
The club’s mission is not only to teach practical skills but to inspire members to engage in a rewarding, hands-on hobby. As their club constitution states, “We strive to establish a safe learning environment for all fashion fanatics, regardless of skill level, that will allow members to grow their skills, explore their creativity, and connect with peers of similar interests.”
The club promotes needlework as a means of self-expression, and the emphasis on inclusivity allows members to explore this art in a way that suits them best.
As the club continues to grow, the board has set goals for the future, including increasing attendance and expanding its workshop offerings. With the board’s commitment to inclusivity and the strong support among its members, “We’re just excited to see where we can take this.” DU’s Sewing Club stands as a beacon of creativity, inclusivity and skill-sharing, offering a haven for anyone interested in needlework. For those looking to get involved, all it takes is a willingness to learn and a bit of curiosity.