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The Collaborative Magic of Repair Fairs

A technician repairs the internal components of a desktop computer in a workshop.

Elnur/CanvaPro

Repair fairs are free community events where volunteers with various skills guide people in fixing their broken household items like electronics, bikes and toys. Often accompanied by a clothing and housewares swap, these fun community events promote skill-sharing, waste reduction and sustainability; boost DIY self-confidence; and encourage friendly conversation over a cup of coffee.

Originating in the Netherlands in 2009 to combat the throwaway culture, repair fairs have become a global movement supported by the nonprofit Repair Café Foundation, which organizes pop-up events worldwide. By mending, recycling and reusing items, participants safeguard the planet and save money, too.

 

Finding or Starting a Repair Fair

  • RepairCafe.org and TheRestartProject.org list thousands of repair events worldwide and also help individuals start their own local groups.

  • Search “repair fair near me” or “repair café near me” on the internet to find nearby events.

  • Facebook search for “repair fair”.

  • Local newspapers list these events in their calendars and can also help promote a new repair fair.

Common Fair Items

  • Clothing that needs to be mended, patched, hemmed or altered, as well as garments with missing buttons, broken fasteners or stuck zippers

  • Bicycles that need to be tuned up or that require repairs to brakes, gears, chains and tires

  • Small appliances, including toasters, blenders, coffee makers, mixers and food processors

  • Wooden furniture with loose joints or wobbly legs, or that need surfaces restored

  • Lamps that need to be rewired

  • Toys with broken pieces or mechanisms

  • Antiques, books, documents and old photographs that need to be preserved or restored

  • Jewelry with broken clasps or that need to be resized or polished

  • Miscellaneous items like umbrellas or tools in need of repair

Typical Skills Needed

  • Electricians to repair small appliances, lamps and other powered items

  • General maintenance and repair workers that can fix a variety of mechanical equipment and everyday items

  • Carpenters that can fix furniture or other structural items

  • Textile and sewing specialists to mend clothing, upholstery or other fabric goods

  • Bicycle mechanics for basic tune-ups and repairs

  • Jewelry repairers for treasured items

  • Electronics technicians for diagnosing and repairing household electronics such as radios or computers
 

Helpful Tips

  • Bring items in a clean and ready state.

  • Prepare a clear explanation of the problem that needs fixing.

  • Arrive early, or be prepared to wait.

  • Ask questions and bring a notebook and pen to take notes.

  • Have fun and engage in conversations.
In-Print, Green Living sustainability National Content Eco-Tip Sustainable Living February 2026

 

 

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