UCL Repair Cafe: Fixing a Broken Britain

At this Repair Cafe event, learn how to fix, maintain, and retain your stuff. Bring along your broken, torn, or tattered items and learn "hands-on" how to mend them alongside our clever stichers, hackers, fixers and heritage nerds.  Why do-it-yourself when we can do-it-together?By bringing together menders, mechanics, hackers and DIY (Do-It-Yourself) or (“DIT”-Do-It-Together) experts with professional heritage conservators, this event provides a unique opportunity for the UCL community and local participants to learn practical skills applicable to their own material heritage. Come along, sit down, and share hot drinks* and conversation while learning the skills required to sustain our many “ordinary things”.

*Free coffee and tea provided by us, we only ask, in the spirit of sustainability, that you bring along your reusable mug or travel cup of choice.

RSVP if you'd like but no tickets required, just show up!

Activities Include:

Clothing Repair: The team from WORN are on hand to help you with basic repairs, simple fixes and hacks and creative repurposing. WORN will be joined by textile conservators to assists in repairs as well as dicuss materials, technique and the conservation and preservation of both historic and modern textiles. They can teach you how to make your garment last 100 years, if you want it to!

Clothes Swap: Bring several pieces of clean, gently-used clothing that you rarely wear (be honest, you’re never gonna don that velour top) and swap them for ones you will.  Refresh your wardrobe for free!

Bicycle Repair: Camden Bike Doctor will be on-site to help you with all your cycling needs.  From simple tune-ups and adjustments to repairing punctures, brakes,and gears.

Electronics:  A team from the Institute of Archaeology will be able to answer your questions for all things electronic, from basic computer check-ups and troubleshooting to mending your toaster.  Anything with a plug!

Maintainsplain:  The Institute of Archaeology maintenance team will be on hand to help with all of your built environment questions.  Shorting switches or unusal stains?  Learn the skills to help you get your full deposit back. 

Musical Instrument Repair: Learn the best methods to care for and maintain your instruments from conservators and musicians (and musician conservators).

Hosted by The Centre for Critical Heritage Studies, with UCL Estates and the Institute of Archaeology.