Hand-darning with Steven Junil Park

Steven Park, designer of 6x4 will teach traditional needle weave darn through to decorative darn, similar to sashiko techniques.

*Please bring an item that you would like to repair, along with a matching thread if possible. If you do not have something to darn there will be scrap fabric available for practice. Needles, scissors, and darning mushrooms will be provided as well as a hand-drawn instructional hand-out.

Darning is a hand sewing technique for repairing holes and reinforcing weakened areas in clothing with a needle and thread. It is a great way to reconnect with the things you wear by spending time caring for them so that they last longer and age beautifully. Darning can be a decorative practice as well as a practical one, showing the beauty of hand sewing and honesty of clothing that has been well worn and loved.

In this workshop you will learn to use a needle and thread to re-weave new material over a hole in your clothing, or reinforce a threadbare or weakened area of your clothing with the same technique (please note this is a different technique to Swiss darning where heavier knits are repaired by 'reknitting' with a needle and yarn). Traditionally darning was a preventative practice; once you have learnt this skill you will be able to artfully prevent further damage to your clothing. This technique takes some time and patience, so it is recommended to start with a manageable project. It is ideal for woven fabrics but can also be applied to knits.

About Steven Junil Park:
Steven Junil Park is a multi-disciplinary artist living and working in Ōtautahi Christchurch. He works under the name 6x4 producing everything for the label himself: clothing, shoes, and accessories. Most of his pieces are one-offs and often feature recycled, natural dyed, or vintage textiles. For him, the history of the materials and the making processes involved are just as important as the outcome. He creates his work by being resourceful and using already available materials in a world of excess.

This workshop is run as part of She Shed: Contemporary Wool Craft. Located in the historic Petone Settlers Museum, this exhibition by 2021 Blumhardt curator, Dr Bronwyn Lloyd demonstrates the timely revival of heritage craft skills and the value of slow crafting. It features the work of Vita Cochran, Lizzy Leckie, Caroline McQuarrie, Rona Ngahuia Osborne, Steven Junil Park, Daegan Wells, and Georgina May Young.