Designing with recycled materials is a whole other can of worms. Running production with upcycled clothing, manufacturers’ waste or deadstock as raw material sets a challenge of its own. When designing with post-consumer clothing it is cost-effective and fun to use original details in fresh ways. Rather than creating a button placket, repurpose one from a garment you are no longer able to use. You can use shoulder seams as shoulder seams, pockets can be carefully harvested and incorporated. Cuffs make great cuffs. Part of the delight found while upcycling textiles comes from ascertaining which elements of a discarded garment still have integrity and can be given a new life and which parts are worn out. What can be created with worn-out elements?
Polly Leonard
Founder & Editor of Selvedge Magazine
Founder & Editor of Selvedge Magazine
Paperback
This issue features local Glasgow-based designer and host of our Mending Club, Siobhan McKenna, of ReJean Denim.