Experience the simplicity and beauty of a vintage Singer sewing machine with a range of workshops and sessions from fashion designer Gracie Matthews. From creating tote bags to learning to make alterations to your own clothes, these workshops in Aotea Square during Fashion Week are sure to be popular.
Tote Bag Sessions
Gracie Matthews will guide you through the making process of a simple tote bag using traditional finishes like French seams in her own uniquely fun and interactive style.
Victoriana Style Drawstring Bags Sessions
Using beautiful vintage linen, you'll create a unique drawstring bag to pop your delicates in for your next romantic getaway. Using traditional seam finishing techniques one crank at a time, Gracie will guide you through the process while sharing her favourite sewing tips.
Open Class - Alterations and Mending Session
Alongside the vintage machines, there will be a range of electric Singers to help make your mending and alterations a breeze. There is no set project for this session, so just pop in with your queries or garments and Gracie will guide you in the right direction.
About Gracie Matthews
Originally a graduate in fashion technology, Gracie has utilised her training to develop a career in costume creation and design which includes a variety of costume disciplines, including arena events, musicals, plays, short films, re-production pieces and character suit making. Though her work has taken her abroad on occasions, Gracie is quite content working from the home studio amongst her hire costumes and vintage machines. In recent years, Gracie re-discovered her passion for teaching with her collection of vintage sewing machines. Though Covid has interrupted the momentum of her workshops, the return to home sewing and mending has enabled Gracie to pivot her business to include machine maintenance and increase the alterations side of her business. Gracie is very excited to be asked back to NZ Fashion Week with her Singer machines.
This event is proudly supported by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.
$2 per hour to a max of $12 on weekends and a $12 flat rate for weekday evenings at The Civic car park. Find out more.