Clothes With Intention: Thrifting & Alteration

Clothes With Intention: A Thrifting & Alteration Lab is a hands-on, beginner-friendly experience designed for anyone who wants to engage more thoughtfully with the clothes they wear. Working with thrifted or secondhand garments, students will learn how to assess pieces for fit, function, and potential, and practice simple alterations and mending techniques that help clothing feel better on the body and last longer. This class emphasizes experimentation and problem-solving over perfection, making it approachable for all skill levels.

Throughout the lab, students will alternate between guided demonstrations, discussion, and dedicated time to work on their own garments. We’ll explore how to read clothing construction, make intentional design choices, and build confidence using basic sewing tools and machines. Along the way, we’ll talk about clothing as craft—how what we wear reflects identity, care, and values—and how small changes can make a big difference.

By the end of the class, students will leave with practical alteration skills, a clearer eye for thrifting, and a new framework for making intentional choices about clothing. Whether you’re brand new to sewing or looking to deepen your relationship with making, this lab offers a supportive space to learn, experiment, and connect through craft.

Registration Includes…

Instruction, sewing machines and basic tools are provided.

What goes into our class pricing? As a local nonprofit, Duluth Folk School is committed to supporting both our instructors and community. We want to compensate our instructors fairly, keep class sizes small, and keep our doors open—while also keeping prices as low as we can.

Thank you for participating in our local handcraft and education economy! Together, we help keep Duluth a fun and vibrant place.

Student Requirements

• Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: To get the most out of this class, it’s helpful if students have some basic familiarity with a sewing machine. This might include having sewn a straight line before, knowing how to thread a machine and place a bobbin, and feeling comfortable using simple tools like scissors, pins, and a seam ripper. You don’t need advanced sewing or alteration experience—just a willingness to learn, experiment, and work at your own pace. If you’re unsure whether this class is a good fit for you, you’re welcome to reach out with questions before registering.
• Best for Ages: 18 and older
• You should bring:
  • For the first session (optional):
    • One garment you already want to work on or a small selection of thrifted pieces you’re considering, to use as examples or options during discussion
  • For the second session (required):
    • One thrifted or secondhand garment you’d like to alter or mend (washed and dried before class)
  • Optional, but helpful:
    • A sewing machine you’re comfortable using
    • Basic sewing tools such as scissors, pins, and a seam ripper