Lethbridge residents can learn practical skills, from mending clothing to maintaining bicycles, at an upcoming community event led by local volunteers.
Hosted by Environment Lethbridge, the How-to Faire runs Oct. 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization. The event features demonstrations and workshops led by local repair experts, known as fixperts.
Environment Lethbridge Executive Director Kathleen Sheppard said a barrier for people can be not knowing where to start.
“The How-to Faire is a way for volunteer fixperts to share their knowledge and help people fix things themselves,” Sheppard said.
Visitors do not need to bring broken items to the How-to Faire. The event focuses on sharing practical knowledge, with volunteers available to answer questions and offer guidance on repair projects.
“The How-to Fair is an opportunity to learn and ask questions,” explained Sheppard. “Whether you want to mend a sweater for the first time or you’re having a problem with your bike, fixperts at the How-to Faire can give advice and help problem solve.”
The program will feature demonstrations and workshops on sharpening knives, maintaining sewing machines and bicycles, repairing small appliances, mending clothing, improving household energy efficiency and conserving water through landscaping. Visitors can speak with fixperts in the demonstration room or attend workshops throughout the afternoon.
The How-to Faire expands on Environment Lethbridge’s repair café initiative, giving residents another opportunity to learn maintenance techniques and tackle future repairs themselves. Similar skill-sharing events are held around the world.
“Not being able to have items repaired is one of the main reasons items end up in the landfill,” said Sheppard. “Fixing items helps them last longer and keeps them from being thrown away.”
Sheppard said learning to complete one repair can help people feel more confident about tackling similar jobs in the future.
