Start a Local Repair Circle

Start a Local Repair Circle

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Step‑by‑Step Plan

A Repair Circle (or “Repair Café”) is a community gathering where volunteers help people fix everyday items—clothing, electronics, furniture—rather than tossing them out.

It’s eco‑friendly, social, and empowering.

Build Your Core Team

Gather enthusiastic volunteers: craftspeople, technicians, makers, anyone skilled at repairing things. Aim for diverse repair specialties (sewing, electronics, woodworking, etc.).

Find a Venue

Look for accessible local spaces like community centres, libraries, schools, churches, or co‑work hubs. You’ll need tables, chairs, decent lighting, and plug sockets.

Choose a Format

• Decide on frequency (e.g., monthly, biweekly, pop‑ups).
• Typical setup: Usually a walk‑in event, bring items, meet helpers, get guidance and tools.

Set Policies & Guidelines

• Cover basics like: Which items you’ll repair
• Liability disclaimer (e.g., “attempted repairs—no guarantees”)
• Safety rules (age limits, protective gear)
• Whether repairs are free or a suggested donation

Gather Tools & Supplies

Make a checklist: screwdrivers, soldering station, sewing kits, adhesives, spare parts, extension cords, first‑aid kit, safety goggles.

Create Partnerships

Connect with:

• Local repair cafés (for shared experience)
• Waste‑reduction nonprofits
• Libraries or repair‑oriented organizations Tool libraries or maker spaces
• Recruit Volunteers Post on: Community/volunteer platforms (e.g. Volunteer Canada)
• Repair Café International’s directory
• Local social media groups, bulletin boards,
• newsletters

Promote the Event

• Market it locally with: A Meetup.com page
• Facebook event, Nextdoor, Instagram
• Posters in shops, libraries, campus boards

Launch Day!

• Set up stations clearly (label by repair type)
• Use signup sheets for flow management
• Optionally hold a short intro (explain “repairability” principles)
• Ask for donations to cover costs (tools, venue, coffee)

Reflect & Repeat

After each event, gather feedback from volunteers and participants. Ask: What worked? What could improve? Adjust guidelines, scheduling, or layout accordingly.

Helpful Resources & References

Repair Café International: Offers guidelines on setting up, tool checklists, promotion templates, and volunteer recruitment. Find them via “Repair Café International start new” online.

Mycelium’s Repair Café Toolkit: Access open‑source toolkits with planning docs, signage, and how‑to tips.

Useful Links to Explore

Repair Café International – Start a Café Repair Café Starter Kit (PDF)

Repair Café International – Code of Conduct

Getting Connected & Supported

Join the Repair Café International Facebook group for peer support. Tap into local eco‑community channels (e.g. sustainability Meetups). Invite local media to cover your first event—it’s a great community story.

Quick Checklist

Why It Matters

• Reduces waste by fixing instead of discarding.
• Empowers the community through skill-sharing.
• Builds social connections across diverse groups. Promotes sustainability at the grassroots level.