I am bringing a community sewing group to Barnoldswick, Lancashire which will help join people together whilst helping them create handmade projects, not only does sewing bring an enormous sense of pride once you have created something, it is extremely beneficial on our mental wellbeing whilst it is a space for people in our community to make new friends. I would like to offer the sewing group two specific types of sewing machines called overlockers. I have been obtaining general sewing machines and items for the group out of my own funds and from donations from the community, however, overlocker sewing machines are uncommon and something that I am unable to cover the cost of myself. This project would allow the group to have two overlocker sewing machines that I would not be able to fund myself. It will allow the group to use a machine that they may not have ever had access to before.

What we'll deliver:

• Obtain two overlocker sewing machines
• Offer people a sewing machine they may not be able to access otherwise
• Teach a new skill within the group
• Help people gain confidence on a new machine
• Give variety to the community group

Why it's a great idea:

This project will enable the group to have a diverse range of sewing machines for various types of sewing. It will allow the group to have an opportunity to learn a new skill on a machine they may never have had access to, it could also engage more interest as the group would be able to offer more than use on a general sewing machine. It will offer variety and could appeal to people who are already confident on the sewing machine who would like to gain confidence on an overlocker.

Steps to get it done:

• Purchasing the two overlocker sewing machines for the group
• Offer a range of sewing machines to the group other than a general sewing machine
• Teach people the skill to use the overlocker machine
• People to gain confidence on a new piece of equipment
• Help people create items with an overlocker

I have funded the initial set up of Sewing Together with Sew Gemsy myself as I am an unconstituted individual and grants I have tried and enquired about have not been successful because of this. I have been able to source equipment second hand however these types of sewing machines for this project are uncommon on the second hand market and I would not be able to fund them out of my own money. I want to be able to help our local community and give them a safe, friendly space they can learn how to sew and gain extra knowledge and skills in the art of sewing. I am volunteering my time and this community project will be non profit.