Manic Making Workshops: Stitch and Bitch – Community Cape

Join us in a unique series of workshops led by artist Claire Wildish from The Menopause Project, where themes of menopause, motherhood, and “manic making” are explored through creative expression and community connection. Participants will craft meaningful pieces that embody personal stories and shared experiences, culminating in a vibrant wearable art soirée at First Fridays on March 7.

Stitch and Bitch: Community Cape Workshop

Drawing on the tradition of the “stitch and bitch” gathering, Claire Wildish invites participants to this workshop as a space for open conversation, shared stories, and collaborative crafting. During the session, attendees are encouraged to bring along a piece of clothing with personal significance—such as an old favourite pair of jeans or a well-worn sweater—that they no longer use. Together, these items will be cut, repurposed, and hand-stitched into a large, collaborative “community cape” that embodies the stories, emotions, and journeys of each participant. As the cape grows, it will travel between workshop locations, gathering more fabric and stories as it evolves into a communal piece that represents resilience, adaptation, and self-expression. This symbolic garment, filled with the memories and contributions of every participant, will be displayed at the final event, becoming a powerful artifact of shared transformation.

All materials needed for the workshop are included in the price and will be provided on the day.

Through these workshops, Claire Wildish offers a creative platform for participants to explore and express their stories within a supportive community. Whether through bold T-shirts, a shared community cape, or a “brain fog” hat, each piece represents a unique narrative. Join us in crafting art that speaks to real experiences and celebrating the power of collective creativity at First Fridays.