Repair Report: January 2026

Another successful Fix-It Clinic is in the books! This clinic boasted:

7 repair volunteers (plus 4 setup and intake volunteers),

25 clients,

32 broken items, and

23 (or more!) items fixed!

We saw fewer lamps and mending projects than usual and more random kitchen appliances, including an ice maker, two air fryers, a teapot, and a pestle.

The award for most rewarding repair goes to David P., who turned a 3-year-old into a successful shopkeeper by fixing her toy cash register so it opens and dings again!

The award for most puzzling item goes to the antique toaster brought in by Kathleen T., which was completely deconstructed and examined by the entire small appliance repair team. No one could figure out just how it was supposed to work, but studying the insides was certainly interesting!

The award for most repairs by a non-repair volunteer goes to Carrie R., who fixed a necklace and a gourd lamp, both of which were way outside the skillsets listed on her resume!

The best host award goes to Ryan S., who not only stayed up late with his dad baking brownies and cupcakes but woke up early on a Saturday, generously distributed said goodies, and provided cheerful assistance wherever needed, staying until the last screwdriver was put away and last extension cord unplugged.

And finally, the best teamwork award goes to...honestly, everybody! The sewers are always a fantastic team (pictured working together on one dress!). The appliance folks consult with one another, lend a hand, and shine a light (both literal and figurative) on each other's work. And the setup and intake staff had everything running smoothly without me within five minutes of getting there. What a dream team! 

You can join the dream team as a volunteer or come have them help you out! The next round of repairs is set for Saturday, March 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sign up here to volunteer! 

Thanks again to everyone who participated. It was truly a joy to see you there!