News

Fabric recycling totals for March 2023

We are thrilled to announce that in March 2023, Our Social Fabric was able to divert an incredible 6,531 lbs (2,962 kilograms) of fabric and sewing-related supplies from ending up in landfills. T...

Vancouver non-profit has elephant-sized impact on fabric waste

In the first three months of 2023, Our Social Fabric has saved over 7,000 kilograms of fabric and sewing-related materials from landfill. That’s more than a fully grown male elephant! Since 2017,...

Use cone thread in your sewing machine

Our cone threads are a great way to get fantastic value when purchasing thread for your projects. If you have a serger or cover stitch our cones can be used right on the spool pins of your machine...

What can I sew with shirting fabrics?

Shirting fabrics - not just for shirts! We share six types of garments you can sew with cotton shirtings.  Shirting fabrics are known for their crisp texture and durability, making them a popular ...

Muslin - five projects to sew today

  Cotton muslin is a versatile and affordable fabric that can be used for a variety of sewing projects. Its natural colour makes it a great neutral choice or a fantastic base for personalisation...

More free sewing machines to change young designers lives

  Our Social Fabric is handing out six free sewing machines to youth in the Vancouver Lower Mainland as part of our scholarship program, Sew Fun(d). Our unique scholarship program has already gi...

Four young designers given head start with a new sewing machine

Four aspiring young designers have already received a brand-new sewing machine as part of our Sew Fun(d) scholarship program. Here, program manager, MaryAn gives us an update on the program so far:...

Colour blocking - what is it and how do I do it?

In sewing speak, colour blocking is mixing two or more differently coloured fabrics within a single garment. It might mean choosing a different colour fabric for the sleeves versus the body or sli...

How to apply lace hem tape

You might have seen packets of pretty lace hem tape (also called lace seam binding) in our store but have you wondered how to use it? Today on the blog, we show you step-by-step how to apply lace h...

Fabric recycling totals for January 2023

  We're pleased to shared that in January 2023 we diverted 6,739 lbs of fabric and sewing-related materials from landfill. Our donors included local manufacturers, the film industry and private ...