Sip, Stitch & Socialize: Inside Accra's Wine & Design Sewing Experience
In this episode of `Those who Gather`, we talk to Saphine, founder and Creative Director of Saphine Studios and the host of Wine & Design. What started as a desire for a casual, creative outlet has blossomed into a unique 'sip and sew' event for hobbyists and creatives. Wine & Design is redefining the sewing experience in Accra, blending crafts, wine, and genuine connection.
The Essentials
Hello, welcome to "Those who Gather". Can you tell us your name and what you host on Gaderin?
Hi I’m Saphine, founder and Creative Director of Saphine Studios and I host Wine & Design.
Give us the backstory. How did this all begin?
I host guided sewing lessons for beginners, mostly hobbyists who want to try out sewing. Usually, they do not want to commit to a whole fashion course because it really is either a curiosity thing or a desire to be creative in the moment. At least that’s what I wanted when I started out, but there was no place like this. I had to enroll in a year-long fashion program which was way more intensive than I bargained for. That was when I realized that there are people out there like me who need a space like this. So, I created it.! In December 2024, I decided to host a ‘sip and sew’ event as a ‘sewcial’ activity for hobbyists and creatives who share the same interests to come together and have a good time and that was how Wine & Design began.
What’s the experience really like — beyond the promo caption?
It’s surreal. Most people think of sewing as exclusive to people in fashion so when they start getting a hang of it, they can’t believe it. It feels like learning a magic trick.
Style, Vibes & Rituals
Walk us through a hosting day — what’s your routine?
It starts with the team having a heavy breakfast; some waakye or kenkey to set the tone.
After breakfast, we set up the place, bag the pre-cut pieces and arrange them for the guests.
Then we dress up and go over the lineup of activities and roles of the team members.
Once the guests arrive, we set them up with their respective chaperones and get to practice stitching.
Then we take a break to play knowing-me-knowing-you games; the guests love this part so much because there’s always an interesting twist.
We get back into stitching the craft of the day with wine and snack breaks in-between, while the guests troll each other on whose craft is better and who is more focused on the wine instead of the crafts. -At the end of the day, we take pictures, finish what’s left of the wine and everyone heads on home
What do you wear when you host? Do you have a go-to style or signature look?
I don’t exactly have a signature look, but I definitely try to make sure my outfit has a presence enough to give off host vibes, lol.
What music sets the tone for your sessions? (Playlist recs welcome.)
It always starts with Gospel music and then we transition to fit the mood, usually I pick something that people can sing along to like Bruno Mars and then we climax with the typical Afrobeats/ Amapiano jams because why not?
Signature scent, drink, or pre-hosting ritual?
Pre-hosting ritual is definitely having a glass of wine or two before the guests arrive, so that I’m in the mood that I seek to create- calm, lively and ready to ‘sewcialize’.
Mind Behind the Moment
What inspired this experience — and what do you want people to feel?
Well, I love to drink wine… unapologetically…. Sometimes, when I sew, I have a glass just to set the mood for creativity and with the right music, it’s such a divine experience. When an experience is this good, you don’t gatekeep, you share!
What’s the most unexpected thing a guest has ever said or done?
We had a guest who finished so fast, she made a second tote bag for her friend while others were struggling to finish one and this was her first sewing experience. That was definitely unexpected but we loved to see it.!
How do you keep things fresh every time?
We keep things fresh by introducing new crafts and new games so it doesn’t get too monotonous.
Off-Duty
What’s your idea of the perfect Saturday in Accra?
Off the record, I’ll say, being cozied up in bed all day with your person, with lots of snacks and movies and definitely wine but… if I have to be outside, I’ll start early by heading to the beach to catch the sunrise, then find some hot and soft Ga kenkey with pepper and fried fish, no extra drama. Then head back inside to escape the hot afternoon sun and to catch some good sleep. Later in the evening, meet up with friends for games and laughs, featuring kebabs and kelewele, and if we are feeling up to it, we head to town for some liveband jams.
What local spot do you swear by that’s still kind of under the radar?
I can’t seem to keep up with Accra’s spots so I am definitely not the best person to ask.
What's one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
As a fashion entrepreneur who owns a sewing studio and teaches people how to sew, I absolutely hate sewing!
Big Picture
At Gaderin, our mission is to help people gather differently — by making space for real connection, creativity, and shared experiences. What does “gathering differently” mean to you?
I will say “gathering differently” means venturing into spaces, activities and events you will typically not engage in to share in the different perspectives and joys of others.
In a sentence, why should someone book your experience?
Book just for the wine and you might just end up discovering your inner sewing chakra.
Hosting in one word?
Vibing
Ready to Gather?
Wine & Design isn’t just a sewing class, it’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and relaxation. Hosted in a lively space, it brings together community, crafts, and wine in a way that’s uniquely refreshing. Whether you’re going solo or with friends, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.
🧵 Explore the next Wine & Design Experience on Gaderin
📍 Location: Accra. Limited spots, unforgettable vibes.