How to get on to the Upcycling Wagon?
With the fashion industry being one of the leading polluters in the world, it’s no surprise that a greater consciousness has seeped into consumers and sustainable style is on the rise. Consumers are on the lookout for clothing that will last longer, is eco-friendly and is ethically made. What the sustainability mindset also includes is looking at your old clothes with new eyes!
Upcycling is the process of taking an old or unused item and transforming it into something new and unique. One of the simplest ways to give life to an old garment is by altering it to something completely different. Not only does upcycling keep a check on the waste you generate, it’s also a fun and creative way to make something new out of your old favourites.
Why should you upcycle your clothing?
The reasons are plenty and could swing from whether you’re looking to save money, reduce your environmental impact, or simply get creative. Upcycling old clothes is also a great way to spruce up your wardrobe and your home. If you’re someone who loves changing styles often, upcycling is a great way to do so without breaking the bank. It can be quite addictive too especially if you are creative and love to express it as often as you can. It is the perfect way to show off your unique style in your own unique way.
Synthetic materials have made their way into most of our wardrobes and one way of keeping these non-biodegradable fibres out of the landfill is by upcycling them.
What are some ways to upcycle your clothes?
The possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycling. You can make something completely new out of an old garment, or simply give new life to an old piece by altering it. Some creative ways to upcycle your clothes include:
-Turning an old t-shirt into a tote bag
-Cutting up an old pair of jeans to make shorts
-Dyeing an old white shirt to add some colour
-Turning an old dress into a skirt
-Making a crop top out of an old t-shirt.
You get the drift.
How can you get started with upcycling?
If you’re new to upcycling, it can seem a bit daunting at first. A good place to begin is by pulling out everything from your wardrobe that you no longer wear. Once you’ve got them laid out in front of you, think about what you can make with what you see. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of tutorials online that can help you. YouTube is a great resource for finding step-by-step guides on how to upcycle your clothes. Another option is to look around and see if somebody can lend you a hand and help you create something unique.
To wrap things up
If you’re looking for a sustainable and stylish way to refresh your wardrobe, upcycling is the perfect option. Getting started with upcycling may take a while but once you get into the habit of it can be extremely rewarding and fun.