About
FABSCRAP is a convenient and transparent recycling and reuse SERVICE, is an affordable and accessible materials RESOURCE, and is educating and empowering a diverse COMMUNITY of changemakers.
Volunteer Opportunities
All volunteer sessions take place at either the FABSCRAP warehouse in Brooklyn or Philadelphia (directions here). Each session is 3 hours long with 11 signups available. We are presently holding AM and PM sessions Mon-Fri, 9 am-12 pm and 1 pm-4 pm. Here's how a session works:
- Intros and overview of FABSCRAP (10 minutes)
- Learn how to sort the fabric scraps (15 minutes)
- Sort through fabric samples and large pieces, pulling out usable fabrics for reuse and removing hardware and paper from fabric swatches for recycling (2.5 hours)
- Shop for fabric after the session!
To thank you for your time, we’re happy to give you 5 pounds of FREE fabric plus a 30% volunteer discount on any additional material OR waive the fee for recycling up to 10 lbs of personal sewing scraps, OR sign a community service form.
NOTE: FABSCRAP is unable to receive used garments or home linens for recycling.
Tips for a successful session
We welcome all sorters over the age of 10! Please…
- Consider the health and safety of your fellow volunteers and the FABSCRAP team. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of COVID-19 and cancel your session if you are not feeling well, have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or had direct contact with an individual diagnosed with or suspected to have COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
- Dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes as most volunteers sort while standing. We can provide chairs if you prefer to sit!
- Bring your own bag to carry home any fabric you shop!
- We play music, but feel free to bring headphones
- Feel free to bring water or beverages with a cap/lid; there are also vending machines in the building
- As the weather gets cooler, windows will only be open for ventilation depending on outside temperature
NOTE: Sorting fabric requires the use of sharp scissors and some moderate lifting (20-30 lbs). By registering for a session, you are confirming that you have read, understand, and agree to the volunteer waiver.
