The age-old skill of sewing is alive and well in Ophir, thanks to CO Reap’s popular series of classes.

Seventeen women attended the first class of the six-week course at the Ophir Peace Memorial Hall on Wednesday, many with babies, ready to learn more tricks of the trade.

Some came armed with clothing they wanted to mend, while others were keen to learn how to make a garment from scratch.

The course was also helping to ease the burden as the cost of living increases, which has made buying new almost out of reach for some people.

Everyone who registered for the course was also given the opportunity to start the class by making themselves a pin cushion.

Course tutor Shona Bain was on hand to pass on her knowledge, along with several other helpers who had the skills to get the many participants on their way to making progress.

Among the participants was Renee Matheson who joined the class to learn to sew like her mum.

Her goal was to sew an apron for herself, followed by more for her children.

Abi Book-Miller (left) receives some guidance from Bev Lawrence during the morning sewing session. PHOTO: The Central App

Abi Brook-Miller, who brought her nine-week-old baby, Ida, along to the course, was using it to enhance her existing sewing skills.

“I thought it would be great so I could learn more techniques.”

It was also an opportunity for her to get out of the house, she said.

One of the group’s assistants, Bev Lawrence, was pleased to see so many young ones taking up the opportunity.

“It’s wonderful to be with the young ones and keeping the skills going.”

Shona was grateful to the women who joined her for the morning to assist, acknowledging the need for their support due to its popularity.

“I needed my three ladies because they were busy.”

The same course is also being offered in Cromwell this term.

To find out more about the courses offered by CO Reap, visit their website.