In the world of Jiu-Jitsu, every bit of kit tells a story — your first Gi that spent countless hours on the mats, the Gi you wore when you won your first gold at the Euros or that hard fought bronze in Coventry. But when those fabrics start to fray or tear they end up forgotten at the bottom of the pile when they release the new hype Gi with the woodland camo. That’s where Gi Repair Lab, a unique one-woman operation, steps in with a refreshing alternative: repair, repurpose, and reimagine it.
Rachel at Gi Repair Lab transforms old BJJ kimonos into creative new products. I have seen someone’s favourite kimono used to style a denim jacket, complete with the hem-tape on the inside of the cuffs, and cool shoulder and tote bags — each one a piece of someone’s Jiu Jitsu journey reborn. These handmade creations capture the spirit of resilience that defines Jiu-Jitsu itself: adapt, endure, and come back stronger.
Alongside her creative upcycling work, the Gi Repair Lab also offers essential services for practitioners who want to extend the life of their gear. Whether it’s repairing a damaged kimono, securely sewing on patches, or stitching new stripes onto belts, her craftsmanship keeps the focus on mending rather than replacing — a quiet rebellion against disposable culture.
Every stitch is a reminder that wear and tear isn’t the end of a story but a chance to continue it. For the martial artist lifestylers who value sustainability, Gi Repair Lab offers more than just a service — it’s a philosophy: care for what you have, the repairs are the patina that gives a bit of cotton some soul and when it’s finally time, give your old gear a second life off the mats. Make sustainability more than a gimmick.
If you want to commission your own unique creations you can find Rachel at Gi Repair Lab on Instagram.
