Melbourne-based repair artist Erin Lewis-Fitzgerald mends clothes with visible, playful stitching that turns holes into design features rather than flaws. Once called "a tattoo artist for clothes," she teaches darning and mending and is the author of her book Modern Mending, now in its third printing. In this conversation, Erin shares stories of sentimental repairs, the philosophy of "beautiful and bonkers", and why there are more holes.
Visible mending turns flaws into design. Erin shows how holes and stains can become playful features instead of something to hide, turning damage into a creative starting point.
A clear process protects your time. Before starting a commission, Erin has clients fill out an intake form so she knows what they value, avoiding wasted hours going the wrong direction.
Small pockets of time still count. Her ready-to-go "waiting room bag" shows creative progress doesn't need a big open stretch of time, just a project you can pick up in minutes.
Sentimental value shapes the work. The most memorable repairs in this episode came from garments with a story attached, a reminder that the meaning behind an object can guide how you treat it.
Constraints can sharpen your decisions. Erin finds she works better with fewer materials on hand, a useful mindset if you tend to buy supplies you don't really need.
During the live interview, we shared some images of Erin’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made these images available for you below. You can also explore more of Erin's mending here.
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