Robbinsdale Renew Crew Fosters Belonging, Sustainability

Robbinsdale Renew Crew, a free upcycling crafting program for LGBTQ+ teens and their allies, is fostering connection for those kids while also teaching them about sustainability.

The program ran every other week from Jan. 9 until March 17 at the Crystal Community Center. It’s a joint partnership between Robbinsdale and Crystal, and funded by a Hennepin County youth activities grant. That grant purchased sewing machines and covered other costs for the program.

“It’s really just an inclusive space for LGBTQ+ identifying people and allies to come and create their own clothing, and create their own embroiders,” said Will Cardenas, Robbinsdale’s community engagement coordinator.

The program was intentionally designed to be that way.

“I think it’s important to have spaces that are accepting and affirming, not just ‘it’s for everybody'” said art instructor Harper Steinbach.

The program is free for area kids ages 13-19. All materials were provided for the different crafting techniques they got to try. Steinbach wanted to help the kids find community and try new crafts.

Steinbach (left) fixes a sewing machine alongside two members of the Renew Crew.

Some of the techniques they got to try was threading, pinning designs, embroidery and appliqué. They also use all kinds of fabrics and old Robbinsdale recreation t-shirts to create and practice on.

“We kind of settled on upcycling, because I feel like you don’t have to necessarily be artistically inclined. You can pick up these skills and apply them throughout your life,” Steinbach said. 

They hope this is a less stressful environment to try something new. Steinbach said they liked how the program is free-form and allows the kids to develop a relationship to the materials that doesn’t feel so strict.

“While there are a lot of rules to sewing and using a sewing machine, I want that first touchpoint to be something that’s a little more approachable,” Steinbach said.

Seven kids attended last week and all worked on different projects. 

The last program session is on March 17. Steinbach doesn’t have any classes coming up for youth, but runs a crafting group for LGBTQ adults. You can check out details on their Instagram.

Cardenas is hopeful that the city can offer more programs like this in the future.

Crystal | Robbinsdale