Studio Verenigd Noord (Studio United North)

Studio Verenigd Noord (SVN) is a weekly textile mending and adjustment workshop held at the independent community center, De Rietwijker, located in Amsterdam's northern district, De Banne. This free initiative provides local residents with hands-on support and practical skills in textile repair and garment creation, offering an affordable and sustainable alternative to the mainstream fashion industry.

At SVN, I offer sewing classes focused on creating contemporary garments that cater to all body types. The workshop is equipped with a range of sewing machines, including cover-stitch and overlock machines, enabling participants to work with stretch materials and craft essential items such as t-shirts, hoodies, and balaclavas. The aim is to empower individuals with the skills to create their own clothing, promoting self-sufficiency and creativity.

SVN is an integral part of Verdedig Noord, an activist group committed to preserving the local community in Amsterdam Noord amidst the pressures of gentrification. By offering free, community-driven workshops like SVN, we strive to support and sustain the long-standing residents who have shaped and invested in the neighborhood long before its recent deformation.