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SewGreen is a community not-for-profit program that promotes sustainability through the creative reuse of fabric, fiber, and fashion, as well as responsible consumerism and a rediscovery of self-reliant skills.

We offer community gatherings, free and open to all, where sewing and needlecraft enthusiasts can share ideas and advice. We are planning low-cost sewing classes that will be easily accessed by community members of all ages and skill levels.

SewGreen was founded by Wendy Skinner, in response to many requests for sewing lessons received in the wake of ecofashion/refashion design contests she organized in 2006 (as ReImagine Style, with Valorie Rockney) and in 2007. Wendy gathered together a group of needlecraft enthusiasts and sustainability activists to blend ideas and interests.

“As this effort develops, it becomes clear that it is about much more than sewing lessons,” says Wendy, who is the primary contact for the organization. “There are elements of cultural stewardship, inter-generational sharing of knowledge, youth development, vocational learning, invention and innovation, multi-culturalism, preservation, personal expression, creating healthier consumer demands and shopping habits, and simplifying and improving lives. All of these things contribute to building a more sustainable future for our community."

Donations of fabric, yarn, sewing notions, and sewing machines help support SewGreen's activities. Through sales of some of these materials, we are able to put good quality sewing materials and equipment back into circulation. SewGreen also donates materials to other organizations for reuse and sustainability activities.

SewGreen is based in Ithaca , New York . We are a project of Social Ventures, Inc., a not-for-profit charitable organization. SewGreen has partnered with Tuff Soul, a sustainable style store whose owners, Autumn Newell and JoJo Alpern, share our commitment to sustainability in fashion. We receive support from the Tompkins County Solid Waste Management Division and from citizens across the region who donate their time, advice, and whatever is overflowing the sewing room that can be passed on to others who will love and use it.