Lewisham lockdown community quilt project goes on display

The colourful quilts were stitched by members of the community as part of the 12-week Patched Together project, run by sewing school Make Mee Studio.

During lockdown the company delivered free textile kits across Lewisham, working with Voluntary Services Lewisham, Evelyn Community Store, Mind, Bring Me Sunshine and others.

The kits included equipment and instructions for a range of textile crafts.

Over 430 patches were completed and sewn into large quilts. After Deptford the quilts will tour exhibition venues around the borough.

Make Mee founder Jaime Greenly said: "The pandemic has severely increased isolation and this has been a strain on almost everyone's mental health.

Image courtesy of Make Mee Studio

"With craft having been proven to have a positive impact we wanted to do something creative that would teach people new skills and bring the community together even though we were stuck at home."

One participant added: “Once I began I found I learned so much and I am inspired to carry on with most of the activities and skills I have tried. It’s helped with the isolation and depression I have experienced in this period”.

And Make Mee Studio plans to continue the project, having held a successful crowdfunding project which saw a £5,000 donation from the Make London fund.

Jaime continued: "The funding from Make London means we can run Patched Together for a second time.

Image courtesy of Make Mee Studio

"We provide all the equipment and materials so even people who have never touched a needle and thread before, and don't have materials at home can join in.”

Make Mee Studio is based in Crofton Park Library, and runs sewing classes for adults and children.

The sewing school is reaching out to community groups who have service users who would benefit from the scheme. To learn more visit: https://www.makemeestudio.co.uk/patchedtogether

The exhibition can also be viewed online at: https://www.makemeestudio.co.uk/wearepatchedtogether