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When they finally appeared, many people thought they were unnecessary, impractical and even scandalous
In recent years, sustainability has taken centre stage in the ever-evolving world of fashion. As we become more conscious of our environmental footprint, the idea of repurposing fabric has gained significant traction, resulting in unique garments that not only look good but are good for the planet, too.
Designer Clive Bruder illustrates just how easy it is to upcycle fabrics and recycle your own clothes with sustainable fashion hacks that anyone can try at home.
The benefits of repurposing fabric
Repurposing fabric not only helps reduce waste but also allows you to create pieces that are one-of-a-kind and that no one else will have. By altering or customising existing clothing, you can breathe new life into items that may otherwise be discarded.
Don’t limit yourself to clothing! Small accessories can be made from repurposed fabrics too.
Additionally, it can save money while giving you the opportunity to express your creativity and personal style. This can be done by simply trimming trousers and turning them into shorts, or cutting up a shirt to turn into a co-ord top and bottoms for a toddler: the options really are endless.
Tips for shopping sustainably
Explore secondhand
Thrift stores and charity shops are an absolute gold mine. Look for items made from high-quality materials that can be transformed into something fresh. A vintage dress may become a chic tote bag, or an oversized shirt can be tailored into a stylish blouse. I’ve found so many wonderful unique fabrics in charity shops. Curtains are my personal favourite!
Buy in bulk
If you find yourself a sustainable fabric you particularly love, you should consider buying it in bulk. Not only will this will save money, but it will also reduce the overall environmental impact of shipping smaller quantities. Plus, having extra fabric on hand opens the door to more creative projects in the future.
Check online resources
Several online retailers specialise in sustainable fabrics. Websites like Fabric.com, Ecoluxe, and Organic Cotton Plus offer a wide range of eco-friendly materials. Always read reviews and ensure that the sellers are transparent about their sourcing and production methods.
When buying online, ensure sellers are transparent about their sourcing and production methods.
Look for certifications
When shopping, seek out fabrics with certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), OEKO-TEX, or Fair Trade. These certifications ensure that all the materials have been produced with respect for environmental and social standards.
Revamp your denim
- Cutting and cropping
One of the easiest ways to give your jeans a makeover is by cutting them into a new style. Consider transforming full-length jeans into trendy denim shorts or cropped pants. You can fray the edges for a casual look or add a hem for a polished finish.
If you have a pair of jeans that you absolutely can’t bear to throw away – especially if they were expensive ones – you can turn them into bags! It’s one of my favourites, and an easy one too. At home we have a drawer full of jeans just waiting to have a new lease of life.
create larger garments
2. Adding embellishments
It’s easy to personalise your jeans with embellishments like patches, embroidery, or studs. This can be a fun project, especially if you have old patches lying around or have embroidery skills you want to show off. Consider themes or colours that resonate with you for a more cohesive look.
I have turned old jeans into custom denim patches. Not everyone is about to do this, but if you have the option, do so by using an embroidery machine or, like myself, a laser machine! It really is just a brilliant way to add your own totally unique wording or picture. The possibilities are absolutely endless.
3. Colouring and dyeing
If your jeans have faded or lost their appeal, consider dyeing them. Use fabric dye to change the colour completely or to create an ombré effect. Tie-dye techniques can also add a unique touch, making your jeans stand out.
Another technique that I often see, especially at small independent sustainable fashion retailers, is the bleach effect. But be cautious when using this method, as you don’t want to get the bleach on your skin. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective clothing.
Embrace the trend of visible mending by using contrasting thread or fabric to repair holes.
4. Cut and combine
Combine your jeans with other fabrics to create a unique piece. You could add a contrasting fabric to the pockets or create a denim skirt using the top half of your jeans. This unique mix-and-match approach allows you to play with textures and colours.
5. Reinforcing and repairing
Embrace the trend of visible mending by using contrasting thread or fabric to repair holes or worn areas. This not only extends the life of your jeans but also adds a touch of character to the garment. Embroidery threads have a great range of options and designs to make them unique.
Customising existing clothes
- Taking in or letting out
If you have clothes that no longer fit perfectly, consider altering them. Taking in seams can create a more tailored fit, while letting out seams allows for extra comfort.
A few simple adjustments can make a world of difference. If you’re unsure of how to actually do this, find a local tailor that can do it for you – or teach you how to do it yourself! Alternatively, there are some amazing people on social media who you could follow for tips and tricks. - Deconstructing before repurposing
Another good tip to repurpose your old clothes is to deconstruct a favourite but unwearable piece of clothing and make a pattern from it. And when you find those perfect old 70s print curtains that you scoured the charity shops for, give them a good wash and voilà, you’ve got your favourite item of clothing completely unique to you!
I always recommend sewists do this as it teaches you about the construction of garments that are made in a factory setting (you’d be surprised what you find in factory made clothing). It’s a very different process to home sewing. - Make accessories
Don’t limit yourself to clothing. Think about creating accessories from repurposed fabric. Any small accessory like scarves, bags, and headbands can all be made from old clothes or repurposed fabrics, allowing you to showcase your unique style without starting from scratch. This is a great way to get that unique accessory that you’ve always wanted. - Save your scraps
Save even the smallest fabric scraps to use for small projects like patchwork quilts, coasters, or fabric bookmarks. Many of us have those small bits we don’t know what to do with. Piece them together using patchwork techniques and create your own fabric! It’s also fulfilling to save those bits going to landfill. - Donate, don’t throw away
And if you didn’t want to do anything yourself, consider donating your old clothes to a school or a local craft group. I’m sure they will do something great with them.
Techniques for sustainable sewing
Zero-waste patterns
Consider using zero-waste sewing patterns, which are designed to minimise fabric waste. Many designers are now creating patterns that utilise every inch of fabric. These patterns work particularly well with curtains and duvets.
Repurposing fabric in the home sewing world is a genuinely rewarding and creative endeavour. By transforming your favourite jeans and customising clothes, you can cultivate a whole wardrobe or sewing project that reflects your unique style while also promoting sustainability.
Make sure to let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the journey of creating something new from something old. Remember, the only limit is your creativity!
Feeling inspired?
Turn an old bedspread or fabric into you next fave item of clothing! Visit the Gathered Shop for your next project
