Webster's definition of Upcycle: To recycle (something) in such a way that the resulting product is of a higher value than the original item: to create an object of greater value from (a discarded object of lesser value).
I might add a few addtional descriptive words: REpurpose, REnew, REuse, REvamp, REcreate, REdesign, REvive, REdo, REjuvenate!!! Note that I took liberty with capitalizing RE simply for emphasis!
I might add a few addtional descriptive words: REpurpose, REnew, REuse, REvamp, REcreate, REdesign, REvive, REdo, REjuvenate!!! Note that I took liberty with capitalizing RE simply for emphasis!
Actually, these terms all fall under the umbrella of sustainability, which to me means the simple idea of keeping things that may be destined for the landfill, to instead see new life in a new way by being repurposed. The way I see it, repurposing means using materials as a piece or part of a creative endeavor to make something new from something not so new, and to use items others see as useless or worse yet, trash!
Recently, I went on a road trip with my friends (Kim, Deb & Kathy), to a place called the UpCycle Parts shop in Cleveland. You can learn more about this non-profit organization at upcyclepartsshop.org.
If I had my way I would wish a place like this existed within reach of all creatives! Perhaps there's something similar in your area.
Recently, I went on a road trip with my friends (Kim, Deb & Kathy), to a place called the UpCycle Parts shop in Cleveland. You can learn more about this non-profit organization at upcyclepartsshop.org.
If I had my way I would wish a place like this existed within reach of all creatives! Perhaps there's something similar in your area.
It was a virtual candy land for creatives! Their mission was clearly stated and something to take to heart and remember! It was obvious that staff members had a passion for the work they're involved in.
Our donations were weighed and then self sorted in the back stock room. We asked why the scale was key and told they keep track of the "tonage" of items that are re-sold rather than trashed. Alexis guided us into placing our donations into bins that were categorized for easy sorting. I thought that was a super clever way to lessen the workload for staff members.
Left to right - Deb, Kim, Alexis, Yours Truly, & Kathy
Upstairs in the shop you could find everything from sewing notions, to fabric, leather, yarn, jewelry supplies, art supplies, and crafting supplies for all ages! Prices were far less than what you would find in a retail establishment selling new goods.
The main re-sale shop area
A wall of treasures waiting to be re-used in the main shop area!
So much yarn and do dads!!!
They had another whole side of the store dedicated to holding classes and maker events in what's known as the Craft Cafe.
The Craft Cafe on the opposite side of the store.
Craft Cafe - Open studio where creativity meets community!
The big bargains were in the basement if you were willing to dig and search a bit. For $10 you could fill a bag. Deb and Kathy had no trouble teaming up to gather a bag full of future project possibilities!
We had a great time donating, then browsing and buying new "used" treasures. The best part was meeting staff members like Sharon. Everyone there is a fellow maker and creator who loves the upcycle concept and loves creating themselves!
Sharon loves her work and it shows!
Back to the whole idea of upcycling, we would all agree that sewing is always fulfilling and there's a certain extra spark of joy when you redo and renew items by adding, subtracting, and embellishing. A while back I participated in a fun challenge where I was given a box of "materials" from a thrift shop and had to make something with the contents. You can see the results and find instructions for this project HERE.
Denim in particular seems to be ideal for upcycling. one of my all time favorite ever garment projects was a denim skirt and vest made entirely from old jeans. I wish I had it still today to show you or at least had a pic. The skirt was below the calf, relatively straight and had the front of the jeans with the fly front became the front of the skirt. I can't really remember if it had an added godet or inset to add walking ease like you typically see but it probably did. The vest was based on a pattern that looked like a jean jacket hitting at the hip, with pockets and really cool copper colored buttons. I typically wore the outfit with a stunning pair of cognac colored knee high leather boots that I loved so much. I do still have a photo of those boots LOL!
Anyway, I remember the first time I wore the outfit I was just finishing the construction on the same day I wanted to wear it out. My dear mom finished sewing the buttons on for me as I blew dry my waist length hair and got gussied up. That outfit got lots of "looks." Yes, it was a head turner in a good way, partially because it was so unique but also because it was totally cool, Yes indeed! Upcycled artistry at it's very best and oh so cool!
Do you have an upcycle story to tell? Do you know of a similar establishment dedicated to making donated materials available for sale or distribution to others who see the potential of discarded or donated items? Please share in the comments.
Anyway, I remember the first time I wore the outfit I was just finishing the construction on the same day I wanted to wear it out. My dear mom finished sewing the buttons on for me as I blew dry my waist length hair and got gussied up. That outfit got lots of "looks." Yes, it was a head turner in a good way, partially because it was so unique but also because it was totally cool, Yes indeed! Upcycled artistry at it's very best and oh so cool!
Do you have an upcycle story to tell? Do you know of a similar establishment dedicated to making donated materials available for sale or distribution to others who see the potential of discarded or donated items? Please share in the comments.
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