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Behind the Stitch: Why Chemical Standards and Upcycling Define Mabel Green Studio
Discover why fabric safety standards matter for your home and wardrobe. Learn how Mabel Green Studio uses Oeko-Tex certified French Oilcloth and reworked men's shirts to create beautiful, sustainable, and toxin-free pieces right here in England.

Louise Sleigh
7 days ago5 min read


Why I Upgraded to a Highlead GC0318-1 Industrial Sewing Machine
This post shares the arrival of my new industrial sewing machine and the way it’s reshaping my studio. I’m documenting the reconfiguration of the space—from built‑in cabinetry to fresh decoration—and how the upgraded setup is creating a more efficient, intentional workspace for the work I do at Mabel Green Studio.

Louise Sleigh
Aug 75 min read


The Loved Shirt Rework: Giving Meaningful Garments a Beautiful New Life
This piece explores the many reasons someone might choose to send a shirt for a Loved Shirt Rework — from garments held in memory, to unworn favourites, partner’s shirts, and oversized charity‑shop finds. It celebrates the emotional stories woven into clothing, highlights the creative possibilities of working with larger sizes, and reflects on how reworking a shirt can preserve its meaning while giving it a beautiful new life.

Louise Sleigh
Jul 164 min read


Slow Fashion:
Safia Minney’s Slow Fashion explores ethical, intentional clothing. This post reflects on how its principles—transparency, longevity, and mindful making—align with Mabel Green Studio’s reworked garments and small‑scale craftsmanship, encouraging readers to choose better, repair more, and value thoughtful design.

Louise Sleigh
Jul 102 min read


Reimagined Romance
This piece explores the magic of slow fashion through the transformation of four men’s shirts into one‑of‑a‑kind, tie‑front summer blouses. You walk readers through each reimagined design — from pastel checks to bold stripes — highlighting the craftsmanship, styling possibilities, and the individuality of upcycled garments. The post celebrates creativity, sustainability, and the joy of giving vintage textiles a fresh, modern life.

Louise Sleigh
Jun 264 min read


The Architecture of Experience:
Our latest Lookbook feature celebrates the quiet confidence and architectural style of women over 60. Moving away from dated stereotypes, this editorial showcases how contemporary design belongs to mature frames. Explore a slow-fashion trilogy of one-off garments reimagined from heritage fabrics: from our vibrant tropical hibiscus print blouse with a high frilled collar, to a romantic ruffled plaid shirt, and our crisp, airy grey gingham blouse.

Louise Sleigh
Jun 252 min read


Learning to Sew Before the Internet — A Look Inside a 1960s Sewing Book
Inside the pages of a 1960s sewing book, I found the techniques and confidence that still guide my studio work now. A small piece of sewing history worth revisiting.

Louise Sleigh
May 72 min read


Behind the Seams: Sewing Studio Tour
A glimpse behind the seams: the tools, materials, and small studio rituals that guide my making practice.

Louise Sleigh
May 42 min read


The Truth About the Bernina 1130: A Beautiful Vintage Machine With a Hidden Risk
Thinking of buying a vintage Bernina? My experience with the Bernina 1130 — and a visit to Bamber Sewing Machines in Manchester — revealed the hidden risks of early computerised models and the safer alternatives worth considering. From the legendary mechanical 830 to the modern Bernina 325 with a 7‑year guarantee, here’s what every sewist should know before choosing a machine.

Louise Sleigh
May 36 min read


The Art of the Vintage Japanese Haori: Bringing Mid‑Century Japan into Your Modern Wardrobe
Discover the art of the Japanese haori with Mabel Green Studio. In this guide, I share my expert tips on sourcing "New Old Stock" treasures locally, decoding the hidden language of motifs, and mastering the perfect modern fit. Featuring a spotlight on three rare mid-century finds—from pristine Kyoto Rinzu to vibrant 70s florals—learn how to style these sustainable, slow-fashion icons for your everyday wardrobe.

Louise Sleigh
May 23 min read
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