About Stitching Exchange

The Stitching Exchange (SE) was founded in 2019 by Melissa Sarris. It is an ongoing project partnered with two literacy groups: Refugee and Immigrant Support Services Emmaus (RISSE) and Up-Stitch.

Stitching Exchange offers informal sewing opportunities using embroidery and basic sewing to build community, practice English, and creative expression. Through the kindness of many individuals, more than 25 immigrants have taken home a sewing machine.

Support Stitching Exchange efforts by purchasing items available through the Up-Stitch online store. Hand-made items are donated by Up-Stitch community members or are made collaboratively with SE participants. 100% of sale proceeds goes directly to Stitching Exchange!

Hand/Work 2022

Hand/Work was a new program for Stitching Exchange and was supported by a decentralization grant. We experimented with an informal time bank system, an alternative currency system where hours of service take the place of money. The idea behind creating this system is to better support all of the needs of Stitching Exchange participants and provide direct opportunities for volunteers.

Hand/Work Overview

Listen to our interview with Sanctuary for Independent Media to learn more about this project

For more information: melissasarris2@gmail.com