The Merri Menders is a small group of locals who are supporting the change towards a sustainable Merri-bek, one stitch at a time.
They organise mending circles and workshops, get together to do mending in public places, and publicise other mending initiatives and resources.
“We are passionate about reducing textile waste and ‘making do’ with what we have,” says Liz Morrigan, one of the menders.
The group was inspired by mending circles and workshops organised by local textile artist Tamara Russell.
“A mending circle is a group of people sitting together repairing clothing, and enjoying it! Sometimes menders share techniques, sometimes there’s casual chat, and sometimes relaxing silence,” Liz says.
Merri Menders runs workshops on specific topics such as darning socks and creating your own portable sewing kit. They can also set up mending circles at local community events.
“In March 2026, we sat under a tree at the Harvest Festival at Reynard Street Neighbourhood House, and the next day we mended at the Degrowth Festival in Carlton,” says Liz.
“Mending in public places, like on the tram or at a protest, can inspire others to consider mending their clothes.”
Get involved
- Follow Merri Menders on instagram: @merrimenders
- Join the Merri Menders mailing list by emailing Liz on liz@lizmorrigan.com.
- Keep an eye on the Merri-bek Libraries Eventbrite page for upcoming mending events at the libraries’ Makerspaces.
