Sew TO Sewing Collaborative

The Sew TO Women’s Collective empowers women in Thorncliffe and Flemingdon Park by creating opportunities to earn a stable income while working from home. Our collective supports local women who face barriers to employment, providing an inclusive space—both physical and virtual—for skill-building and friendship. Our members gain valuable experience in sewing, entrepreneurship, and English language skills, while also learning sustainable practices like upcycling and mindful sewing.

Our Story
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, TNO—The Neighbourhood Organization—launched the Sew TO Collective Community Mask Making Project in April 2020. This initiative, in partnership with local organizations like Thorncliffe Flemingdon Sustainable Sewing Group and Michael Garron Hospital (MGH), provided essential face masks to East Toronto residents. Within the first four weeks, Sew TO donated over 3,000 masks to MGH and created employment for 28 people while reducing textile waste. Encouraged by the positive impact, the sewers were eager to continue, and Sew TO evolved into a long-term project to support local women’s employment and community health.

What We Sell
Our collective creates and sells upcycled, two- and three-layer masks, as well as high-barrier four-layer masks in partnership with Frett. We also offer pouches, mask holders, cushion covers, tissue box covers, and other sustainable, upcycled products. Every piece is crafted from prewashed, donated fabrics to minimize waste and promote eco-friendly practices.

Environmental Impact
We’re committed to reducing our ecological footprint by using pre-loved and generously donated fabrics. Through upcycling, we divert materials from landfills, creating products that are both sustainable and stylish.

Support Us
Your purchase supports local women in building better lives, learning new skills, and giving back to the community. Together, we’re creating something bigger—empowering women and making a difference.