Dolly Shop
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Over the past few months, we’ve been bringing sustainable fashion to life across the UWE campuses, in collaboration with the Students’ Union.

Through a series of hands-on sessions, students explored what it really means to make and remake their own clothes. From complete beginners to those building on existing skills, it’s been incredible to see how quickly confidence grows once someone sits down at a sewing machine for the first time.

Together, we’ve created a wide range of pieces bags, pouches, skirts, tops, dresses, and pyjamas as well as supported garment alterations. One of the most meaningful aspects of this work has been helping LGBTQ+ students adapt clothing during their transition, making pieces that better reflect who they are.

These workshops have shown that sustainable practices don’t have to be complicated or inaccessible. With the right support, tools, and space, people can take control of their clothing in a way that’s creative, practical, and empowering.

Looking forward to continuing this work and reaching even more students. 🌿🧵

We have a few spaces left on our FREE Sustainable Sewing Workshops for students interested in fashion, upcycling, sewing, or learning new creative skills.

You may have joined us before at the UWE Students’ Union PADS or at the Student Ventures units. This time, CEED Charity Centre for Skills has kindly offered to host our workshops, helping bring “make your own clothing” skills back into the local community.

All materials are sourced from unused fabrics, helping reduce waste while giving beautiful textiles a second life. Once registered, you’ll be able to choose your own fabrics for your project. Fabrics are also pre-cut, making the sessions easy to follow and beginner-friendly.

During the workshops, we’ll be creating pieces such as:
• Trench coats and lightweight duster coats
• Chinos and jeans
• Dresses
• Casual summer wear
…and much more.

These are short 2-hour sessions, ideal for students who want to learn practical sewing skills without committing to a full-day class.

Whether you’re a beginner or already have sewing experience, you’re welcome to join.

📍 Location: CEED Charity, 97–107 Wilder Street, Bristol, BS2 8QU (Pink Building)

🚌 Nearest bus routes:
Stokes Croft, 70, 74, 75, 76, 77, AZ1
City Road, 25 (Brunswick Street stop)

Crafting Joy, Creativity & Sustainability

Our Craft

Soft Toys & Dolls Clothing
We create handmade soft toys and miniature clothing with the same care and precision as high-end tailoring, sustainable, playful, and designed to last.

UWE University 2024-2025

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Alongside our main craft, we spent a year teaching and inspiring students at UWE University.

In just 12 months, we:

Guided students in making classic trench coats from authentic 1940's patterns

Taught tailoring through flared trousers and jeans construction

Helped beginners master pattern reading, fabric choice, and sewing confidence

Supported innovative projects, like a robotics student building a device to measure energy in musical instrument performance

Our focus? Sustainability, professional finishing, and confidence-building, proving that high-end garments can be made at a fraction of retail cost.

Sustainability and Creativity

Results from Our Workshops

From the convenience of the UWE campus, our sewing workshops have empowered complete beginners to make their first garments while tackling the challenges of fast fashion.

We teach practical alteration techniques that extend the life of clothing and promote sustainable habits. Dolly Shop has also provided graduation garment alterations, as well as tailoring solutions for staff and the public.

From simple fixes to professional methods, we share hands-on skills using a wide range of sewing machines.