Tad More Sustainability Institute

This Earth Day, we’re celebrating the power of education, creativity, and community.

At Tad More Sustainability Institute, our mission is to educate and empower the next generation of sewists through our DOL-certified apprenticeship program and community sewing classes. We believe that teaching these skills is one of the most impactful ways to reduce textile waste and build a more sustainable future.

Through every class, workshop, and community event, we’re not just teaching how to sew—we’re spreading knowledge, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the garments we wear.

Please enjoy a look at some of the moments we’ve shared here in Rockford—spaces filled with learning, artistry, and connection.

Sustainability starts with skills. And skills start with access.

Happy Earth Day.

Just $12 teaches your neighbor basic sewing skills through our community workshops.

Skills change lives - donate today!

🌱OUR IMPACT

The conversation around sustainability can sometimes feel discouraging - like there's always more work to be done.

And there is. But that doesn't make our efforts any less impactful.

Together, we have made a real difference - and we're only getting started!

Empowering our community, one job at a time.

We're excited to provide updates on our brand-new cohort of apprentices - stay tuned!

Grandma was onto something - everything really is better homemade!

Stay updated for our upcoming community workshops, where we teach you basic sewing skills through practical, useful projects.

Check our community workshops calendar here: https://buylessclothes.org/

To some, cancer is just a disease.

To many others, cancer is a daily reality.

This World Cancer Day, we reflect on the warriors in our community who fight cancer every day, as well as those who fight alongside them.

We're proud to have partnered with the this past Winter to bring visibility and comfort to our neighbors who need it most.

Help your neighbor in need today by donating to the SwedishAmerican Health Foundation in honor of World Cancer Day: https://www.swedishamericanhealthfoundation.org/give/

What's the easiest way to save 2,000 gallons of water and 70 pounds of carbon emissions in one day?

Thrift your jeans!

But don't take it from us, take it from your new favorite pair.

We might not remember every polyester t-shirt we've thrown away - but the earth does.

Buy seldom, and buy natural.

We are still accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of our Industrial Sewing Machine Operator Apprenticeship!

This program is the first of its kind approved by the US Department of Labor. Through over 2,000 paid hands-on-hours, you can become an industry-certified textiles professional.

We're making history - are you ready to join us? Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] today!