Hello! I’m Thea Batty, a Welsh clothing repair artist, educator, and advocate for sustainable fashion. My work is rooted in an empathic approach to fostering community connections and inspiring change.
Coming from a lineage of over five generations of garment factory workers, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to honour their legacy by addressing the unethical labor practices and environmental harm that persist in the fashion and textile industry today.
I believe in the power of repair—not just as a practical skill but as a gentle, creative act of resistance. By embracing the art of mending, we challenge the throwaway culture, take a stand for climate justice, and nurture a more mindful relationship with the clothes we wear.
My mission is to raise awareness and empower others to take part in this movement through a wide range of services. I offer research and archival support for projects exploring fashion’s history, sustainability, and labor practices. I also facilitate engaging, hands-on workshops that help participants overcome the fear of mending and discover the beauty and satisfaction in repairing and reimagining garments.
Provide a bespoke clothing repair service, where I create highly personalised, skilful repairs designed to celebrate and extend the life of cherished pieces. Every stitch breathes new life into these garments, helping to foster a sustainable, thoughtful approach to fashion that values quality, creativity, and care.
By combining education, advocacy, and hands-on repair, I aim to inspire individuals and communities to rethink their relationship with clothing—one stitch, story, and connection at a time.
Education:
MA Fine Art, Curatorial Practices, Bath Spa University.
Fashion History the Evolution of Style, UAL.
BA Hons Textile Design for Fashion and Interior, Bath Spa University.
Foundation in Art & Design, Coleg Ceredigion Aberystwyth.
Further training:
Enhanced DBS Certified.
Safeguarding of Children, Young People and Adults Course.
Kings Trust Enterprise Scheme for Young Entrepreneur.