Give your beloved knits a second life — one stitch at a time
Got a holey sock or a sweater that’s seen better days? This hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop will show you how to turn “worn out” into “worn with pride.” Learn essential darning techniques, from weft and warp to simple stitching, and experiment with various threads to make repairs that are both functional and fun. With plenty of guided time to work on your own pieces, you’ll leave with new found confidence — and a darning needle to keep the magic going at home.
When: We’ll schedule this workshop again when we get at least 10 pre-registrants.
Where: Bend/Redmond
Pre-Registrant Price: $60
Full Price: $66
Supplies Fee: $5
Get First in Line! Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 10 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
Learn the art of practical repairs
You’ll get comfortable using basic darning tools and techniques to fix socks, sweaters, gloves, scarves — you name it. We’ll cover weft and warp stitching and introduce a variety of simple stitches like whipstitch and running stitch. This isn’t just patchwork — it’s skill-building!
Bring your own, make it better
Bring along those clean, well-loved items waiting for attention. We’ll provide plenty of thread options, but if you’ve got a uniquely colored piece, bring your own yarn or embroidery floss to match. Expect plenty of hands-on help as you work.
Community Potluck! Feed Friends!
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
Workshop Leader
Elaine J. Cole
Elaine knows her way around a needle and thread and a whole lot more. Raised by crafty, resourceful parents, she learned the joys of repair early on. Her darning journey began two decades ago with a hand-me-down darning egg and a simple challenge: fix it, don’t ditch it. Elaine now volunteers her skills at The Environmental Center’s Repair Cafés and has a flair for reuse, once creating a runway-ready dress out of medical waste for Portland’s Junk to Funk Fashion Show. She brings deep experience, creativity, and a passion for making things last.
Partner
Howl Goods
Howl Goods is a maker and purveyor of quality apparel and soft goods made with natural, durable materials to be intentionally you.
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind spending a few hours in — you’ll be using your hands a lot.
What should I bring?
Bring one or more clean items you’d like to mend (socks, sweaters, scarves, gloves, etc.). We’ll provide a variety of threads, but for best results on colorful pieces, bring matching thread or yarn. You’ll head home with your own darning needle, ready for future fixes!
Will there be food?
Yes! We’ll share a potluck meal. Bring a dish or snack, plus your plate, water bottle, and silverware.
Can kids attend?
This workshop is designed for adults and teens. Kids 12+ are welcome if accompanied by an adult and able to focus on the hands-on work. They must also have their own ticket.
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.