As fast fashion increases demand for fabrics, we’re seeing its effects on our planet.
Around 20% of pollution is attributed to the textile industry, from the harmful and toxic chemicals used during manufacturing, and the waste and pollutants released when textiles reach the end of their lives – in landfill and burning.
By making something useful out of fabric scraps, you can reduce waste, need less new stuff, and have a bit of fun in the process. Get a few friends together and turn your upcycling into a crafternoon tea after lockdown.
Five no-sew or low-sew things to make with fabric scraps:
Hair accessories - hair upcycling projects make a great gift. Stretchy, silky fabrics work well for this. Sew a tube and thread elastic through to make a scrunchie. For a headband, attach the ends together with a sewn seam or tie together to create some decorative drama.
Nonslip hangers - Fabric scraps can give boring wire clothes hangers a makeover. As a bonus, they’ll also make your hangers non-slip. Just wrap long strips of fabric neatly around and around the hanger and seal ends with hot glue or double-sided tape.
Patches - If you rip a hole in a favourite pair of jeans (or any other item), a patch can save the day. This is an easy item to hand sew; just fold and iron the edges of the patch over first so it doesn’t fray. You might want to make a feature of it by using a contrasting colour patch or thread.
Napkins - Cloth napkins are fancier than paper ones and can help you reduce waste. This one works best with linen or cotton fabrics. Simply cut scraps into squares, roughly 40cm x 40cm. Create a fringe by pulling the threads, or, if you have a sewing machine, hem them.
Twine - It’s easy to make fabric ‘string’ by twisting or plaiting long skinny pieces of scrap fabric together. You might want to tie a small knot at each end to prevent unravelling. Use it to decorate gifts, in the garden, or anytime you need to tie something up (or down). This fabric ‘wool’ can also be used in knitting, weaving or macramé projects.
ECOSTORE, 1 Scotland Street, Freemans Bay, T: 09 360 8477, www.ecostore.co.nz
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Published 3 September 2021