Ragfinery announces plans to reopen in new downtown Bellingham retail space

Ragfinery, a local nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing fabric scraps and educating the community on sewing techniques, announced its reopening plans for a new retail space in downtown Bellingham. The announcement occurred during the Upcycled Fashion Show at the Noisy Waters Mural Festival on August 16. Executive Director Kate Sturgis stated that the new location at 115 Unity St. will feature a downstairs retail area and an upstairs office space for staff and volunteers. Demolition and construction are underway to transform the space for high-volume textile waste diversion.

Following a fire that damaged Ragfinery's previous site in December 2024, the community raised over $40,000 to keep the organization afloat, with an anonymous donor matching all contributions. The new facility aims to enhance the organization's ability to serve the community and promote sustainability. Sturgis anticipates a grand opening in the Arts District before winter 2025. This reopening signifies a crucial step in the organization's recovery and ongoing commitment to environmental education.