Our Founder
Suzie Carley, having enjoyed a lifetime of sewing and a career in community engagement and partnership roles, decided to follow her lifelong passion for fashion and enrolled in the BA (Hons) Fashion Design course in 2011 as a mature student, graduating in 2014.
During her time working for the Southampton Sustainability Forum at the Environment Centre, Suzie won national recognition from the IDeA for the citywide consultation she led on and The National Grid Award for an environmental project for young people so it’s no surprise that her ethos very much centres on the need to care about our planet and the people on it.
She is committed to sharing knowledge, equipment and resources in order to reduce the negative environmental impact fashion inevitably has.
She founded The Sewing Hub in 2023.
The Sewing Hub welcomes students and local residents to help develop skills and improve confidence and self-esteem in a welcoming learning space. Find out about our sewing classes & events here.
Our Mission
The Sewing Hub follows a sustainable business model, appraising all we do against criteria that affects our people and planet. We aim to reduce the environmental impact of fashion locally, engage the community and contribute towards a circular economy.
As an evolving Community Interest Company we support those who wish to update or learn new sewing skills and provide the space and equipment for those who’d like to design and/or manufacture locally. We are keen that users of the hub engage and contribute to what happens here.
As we enter our second year at the Sewing Hub, we see it becoming a place of camaraderie and laughter. As people leave, we see them leaving proud and happy with what they have achieved.
Our vision is for the space to be full of energy and enthusiasm as we go forward and for those who visit us, that they wish to return again, get involved with our community and shape our future.
A few words from our founder:
‘I am so passionate about what’s happening here at the Sewing Hub. Reducing our environmental impact is essential if we are going to slow global warming, we can all do our bit to make a difference locally. Learning to sew, alter and repair clothing helps to slow the number of items finding their way to landfill or an uncertain future in a charity shop. It’s an enjoyable, sociable, creative and rewarding activity that reduces the reliance on fast fashion which has a devastating impact on our natural environment and society. So, a win-win. We take great pride in our work and we love to welcome our existing and new customers – so come for a visit and see for yourself.’
Services
Did a garment shrink in the wardrobe or maybe you’ve lost weight and it’s swamping you? Have you bought something but it doesn’t quite fit? Whatever your age, height, size, or shape we can help with any clothing dilemma. Our team has many years experience and expertise in dress-making, tailoring and pattern cutting and we can advise you on any fit issues. Find out more here.
Whether you’ve never touched a sewing machine before, need a refresher, or want to perfect your skills we are here for you. Classes are small to ensure everyone gets the help they need, and discounts are available if you book a group of sessions. Find out more here.
Once a month we collaborate with guest speakers, local artisans and businesses to bring special events to our community. You can view upcoming events here.
From print design to bridal wear, tailoring to childrenswear – we can help create something special. Find out more here.
The Sewing Hub is an affordable professionally equipped micro manufacturing hub, with flexible bookable studio space available for local designer/makers. Bring your creations to life using Juki industrial machines, a full height cutting table, steam iron and other equipment. Share equipment, knowledge and expertise in a friendly community environment. We also welcome local residents and students who wish to volunteer, gain work experience or hire our machines for their own projects. Find out more here.