Shauna Doll doesn't want you to trash that jacket in need of a new zipper or toss that small furniture item in need of a little TLC.
The Dalhousie University environmental sustainability student is so committed to recycling, reusing and repurposing that she organized an ‘upcycle' workshop taking place this weekend.
The Mended Blender Upcycle Cafe is opening its doors for a day long event on March 16. Doll has solicited the help of at least 15 volunteers skilled in everything from bike, furniture and computer repairs to sewing. They'll be offering their services and showing the skills of their respective trades free of charge.
"I want to help raise awareness that small things can make a big difference. You don't need to throw everything away because often it can be repaired," she said.
The environmental sustainability student said people are often too quick to throw things away when a minor repair will bring it back to life. So if you've got something that needs mending, she encourages you to drop by the upcycle cafe.
"People really like the idea of building a community and teaching other people how to do things themselves," Doll said. "I know some people who have furnished apartments with great furniture they've found by the curb that they've worked on and fixed up. They're saving money and the environment."
From feedback she has received so far, Doll suspects many attendees will be students. She's guessing that both computer and bike repair will be most popular.
"It's so close to bike season and people have had their bikes in all winter. You don't have to pay to get a tuneup," she said.
The cafe day will also include free yoga and worm composting sessions, a knitting workshop, and a volunteer who'll show you how to make your own soaps and shampoos.
"This is a pilot test. I'll be here throughout the summer, so if there's a lot of interest I'm going to continue doing this as a monthly thing," Doll said.
Doll encourages anyone interested in contributing a skill to contact her.
ydentremont@hfxnews.ca
The Mended Blender Upcycle Cafe:
When: March 16, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Fort Massey United Church, 5303 Tobin St., Halifax
What: Workshop to encourage people to repair instead of throw away
Contact: mendedblenderhalifax@gmail.com
