Reviews and Testimonials

sewing class reviews

“If you’re looking to build your sewing confidence, look no further. Bex is a lovely teacher—so patient and knowledgeable. I went from being worried about even touching my machine to feeling fully empowered by the end of the session. The small class sizes make a world of difference for getting the support you need. A 5-star experience that I highly recommend to anyone!” – Catherine V

sewing class reviews

“Fabulous workshop, exactly what I was looking for. The five attendees went from being complete novices, nervous to press the pedals on their machines, to pinning, assembling and sewing a lined bag. Bex is so helpful with great tips and creative ideas. Once I’ve had a bit more practice at home I will definitely be back to try the upcycling course, and hopefully I can persuade my daughter to try the kids class too.” – Lisa T

sewing class reviews

“We had so much fun at Bex’s beginner sewing class. I was pretty much a complete beginner and left feeling confident and inspired to keep sewing. Bex was so lovely, knowledgable and a great teacher. She talked about different materials and how to source them sustainably, essentials for sewing kits, ran us through how to set up our machines and use the different functions, and gave very detailed instructions for our project. She had so many nifty tips and tricks. The class felt very welcoming and everyone was willing to help one another. Bex’s home is lovely and it was a very relaxed environment. I look forward to more lessons with Bex in the future.” – Soraya G

sewing class reviews

“Absolutely loved this class – so useful. Took along a jacket and top I never wear and Bex showed me what to do to shorten the jacket and lessen the impact of very gathered sleeves in the top. Love the fabric on both and will definitely wear them after making the alterations. Bex is passionate about lessening fashion/fabric waste – wonderful to learn from her. Made me realize I can sew a dress from a linen fitted sheet that has been mended too many times and could have ended up in landfill.” – Debra C

sewing class reviews

“Absolutely loved this sewing class! Perfect for beginners like me. Bec is patient, knowledgeable, and made learning so much fun. The venue felt so homely and welcoming, and the endless drinks and snacks were such a lovely touch. I left feeling inspired and confident to continue sewing. Highly recommend!” – Amanda W

sewing class reviews

“I absolutely loved my daytime sewing class with Bex. I learnt a great deal and made my very own small bag in 3 hours! Bex was full of knowledge and information which she happily shared while instructing me on my sewing skills. She kept an eye on me and kept me busy while keeping herself busy preparing fabric for upcoming projects. I would definitely go back for more lessons, and look forward to learning about how to alter clothes. Thanks Bex!” – Selena M

sewing class reviews

“My daughter Charlotte absolutely loved the sewing class she attended! Bex was phenomenal – incredibly patient, enthusiastic, and genuinely passionate about teaching. She went above and beyond, generously sharing her time, tips, and advice in a way that made the sessions not only educational but also inspiring. The value for money was outstanding, but even more valuable was the positive impact Bex had on Charlotte’s confidence and motivation. We’re so grateful for this experience – highly recommend to anyone considering it!” – Benedicte M

sewing class reviews

“A beginners workshop gave me so much learning within 3 hours than any other 3 day workshops would’ve given me in the past. Thanks Bex for making it easy, interesting and keeping it all well organised. Appreciate the small groups as it allows focus on each person attending.” – Pooja B

sewing class reviews

“If you have been doing your research and can’t decide where to book for a beginners sewing course, this is your sign to book with Second Life Upcycling. I couldn’t recommend Bex more.
I was a complete beginner, never having touched a sewing machine before and left having the confidence to hem my own pants! The class was small so personal attention was given throughout the class. Bex answered all my questions in details and gave us many tips and tricks.” – Saige L

sewing class reviews

“Thanks Bex. I am sure your session will compel us to make thoughtful, informed choices when shopping and how we treat our clothes.” – Adeline Lim, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Australasia

sewing class reviews

“The event was a great success, and we’re excited about the possibility of building on this with more events in the future. I also heard you captivated the audience with your presentation and generously stayed on to share valuable tips during the clothing swap – thank you for going the extra mile! We look forward to working with you again soon.” – Peter Tennant, Senior Resource Recovery Program Officer, The Hills Shire Council.

sewing class reviews

“After not sewing for many years, I did a sewing class with Bex. She tailored the session to my level of experience and the others in the class. Bex was patient and gave me so many great tips that I wasn’t aware of. She renewed my passion for making clothes and I am now keen to start altering and upcycling clothes I own to become more sustainable. Thanks Bex.” – Lesley M

sewing class reviews

“My 14yo daughter and I had a great time upcycling our clothes. We learnt lots of awesome tips from Bex about how to reinvigorate our wardrobe and how to be effective thrifters. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn some practical ways to live more sustainably.” – Kate M

sewing class reviews

“Fun morning spent at this Upcycling Workshop, great ideas to easily modify and adjust items just sitting in my wardrobe I wasn’t wearing. Best part we (attendees and with facilitator Bec) inspired each other and shared easy and clever tips. I’ve upcycled many items in my wardrobe since doing the workshop.” – GD

sewing class reviews

“I’m so glad I booked a clothes altering workshop. I had several pieces of clothing that as much as I loved them, they just did not work for me. Bex gave me some great ideas and ways to change the fit and encouraged me to make alterations to them rather than sending them to landfill. She has made me think twice about the clothes I already have and a pile is gathering for my next workshop! Thanks again Bex.” – Michelle

sewing class reviews

“I recently attended a clothes upcycling workshop with Bec, and it was fantastic! Bec is very knowledgeable and shared lots of practical tips. She also showed many examples of upcycled clothes, which were incredibly inspiring. The workshop was well-organized, enjoyable and fun, perfect for anyone interested in sustainable fashion. Highly recommend!” – Julie

sewing class reviews

“I had a great time at the Upcycling Workshop with Second Life Upcycling. Bec is a friendly and knowledgeable teacher and I loved the collaborative atmosphere of the workshop. It has been decades since I last used a sewing machine, but Bec was able to bring me up to speed really quickly. I loved the inspiration that she gave us for making the most of the clothes that we already have. Thanks to this class, I can now breathe new life into clothes that have just been hiding at the back of my cupboard.” – JJ

sewing class reviews

“Thanks so much Bec for a really enjoyable class. Your passion for repurposing clothes not only helps to lesson our carbon footprint but also makes so much financial sense. The class was relaxed, fun, creative and so practical. Highly recommend.” – Miranda V

sewing class reviews

“Incredible resources – Bec has given me so many great ideas for making the most of the clothes I already have. Great workshops which are easy to follow and incredible support. Highly recommend.” – Maria.

sewing class reviews

“I recently did a 3 hour beginners sewing class. It was a fantastic workshop with a very knowledgeable, fun and thoughtful host. Thanks so much. I feel so much more confident working with a sewing machine now. It was a great investment and I’ll definitely do future workshops.” – Youn C

sewing class reviews

“Such a welcoming environment. Bex is a clear communicator and the class flowed so well, even with all the different machines (mostly owned by the students) being used. I loved the class and she has inspired me to want to do more!!” – Tinika B

sewing class reviews

“Brilliant course – so practical and full of good tips and information. I came away having transformed a garment I have not worn in years into a funky individual piece that I know will become one of my staples.” – Clare M

sewing class reviews

“I wanted to say a huge thank you for being part of our Clothing Swap Event. Your workshop was such a highlight – we received so much great feedback on the session. As well, your idea of supporting residents during the swap and making yourself available for advice was fantastic – it created such a positive and welcoming atmosphere. I also really appreciate the time and effort you put into helping set up beforehand and packing down afterwards. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I’d love to do so again in the future.” – Michelle Bird, Resource Recovery Education Officer, The Hills Shire Council.

sewing class reviews

“Could not recommend this class more! Bex was inspiring, knowledgeable and so welcoming! Thank you so much.” – Stephanie B

sewing class reviews

“Had a great time with Bex! She was so committed to helping us come out with a finished project and stay with longer than the class time. Our class ended up with two great bags! And it was all possible with the enthusiasm and support Bex provided. I didn’t feel too pressured either or judged. She had so much positivity, and answered all our questions with great care. I loved how she openly shared all her sewing projects but also just made sure we always remember to have fun. Definitely would encourage anyone in Sydney to come to Bex’s classes” – Cathy N

sewing class reviews

“I absolutely loved my daytime sewing class with Bex. I learnt a great deal and made my very own small bag in 3 hours! Bex was full of knowledge and information which she happily shared while instructing me on my sewing skills. She kept an eye on me and kept me busy while keeping herself busy preparing fabric for upcoming projects. I would definitely go back for more lessons, and look forward to learning about how to alter clothes. Thanks Bex!” – Selena M

sewing class reviews

“My daughter and I did Bex’s kids sewing class together. My daughter wanted to learn to sew and I didn’t know how to teach her. Bex was very kind and patient with my daughter and all the other kids. She even explained what sewing machine would be good to buy. My daughter loved the bag she made – and all on own. She was very proud of herself. I would highly recommend it to dads that want to do a fun father / daughter experience together. Thanks Bex.” – Peter M

sewing class reviews

“I loved the clothes upcycling workshop. I went straight home and started overhauling my wardrobe.  I now have a pile of clothes that I have started altering to fit me properly and an upcycling pile that I will refashion to suit my style. By the end, I should have a brand new wardrobe of clothes without having spent a cent!  Thanks Bec.  You’re a true inspiration.” – Leanne

sewing class reviews

“I did the learn to sew class with Bec. It was excellent. Great fun learning the basics and even got to make a lovely bag. Bec is a wealth of knowledge, lots of great tips. Highly recommended.” – Karni

sewing class reviews

“Thoroughly enjoyed my lesson with Bec. What I learnt was how to use a skirt pattern and cut it out. Great to go along and be part of a group or one on one.” – Karen M.

sewing class reviews

“Bec provided a wealth of knowledge on sewing in a fun atmosphere. Thanks Bec. Also had some great ideas on how to upcycle some clothes I no longer wear.” – Karen G.

sewing teacher sydney

About me… 

I have been doing my best to live a sustainable lifestyle for many years.  I shop second hand, borrow and lend, and “under-consume” wherever possible.

My home is only furnished with items I’ve purchased second-hand, have been given, scrounged from Council Cleanups or have owned for 20+ years. I fix things when they break and, if they can’t be fixed, try to repurpose them into something different.

I haven’t bought new clothes for many years (except under garments) – and my wardrobe is overflowing with amazing pieces thanks to an addiction to thrift shopping!

I believe, with a few small changes, particularly by reducing our consumption of fast fashion, we can drastically reduce our environmental impact and live a life that’s kinder to our planet.

While I’m not going to personally solve climate change, I can be part of a more eco-friendly movement by sharing ideas and the tools I have learned with the hope of inspiring others to also make positive change. And that’s why I established Second Life Upcycling.  Through my clothes upcycling workshops, sewing classes, thrift shopping excursions and sustainability sessions, I hope to encourage others to recycle, repurpose, refashion, reuse, and rethink.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope to see you at one of my workshops soon.

BEX.

Get in Touch: 0418 118 401 | [email protected]