Last year I decided to go back to sewing clothing after 40 years or so and bought a sewing machine. I also bought patterns that were easy (I hoped) and fabric that I loved, and set both aside for when my sewing machine skills were advanced enough to use them. I’m a big fan of Facebook and noticed the posts by creative people upcycling vintage textiles they had thrifted or found at a flea market or uncovered in an old box in the attic. Creative souls turn old textiles into wonderful things like clothing, decor, handbags, even Christmas ornaments and little plush toys. My first attempt at upcycling was inspired by the cost of linen. Linen is expensive and I had an aha moment about buying thrift store linen to upcycle. My first project was to turn a vintage men’s thrift store linen shirt into a skirt.
Upcycling is not new…ask quilt makers or people who remember the great depression how old clothes, feed sacks and curtains were transformed by deft hands into coats, dresses, rugs and dish cloths by parents, grandparents and great grandparents. Here are some of my favorite items made by upcycling vintage textiles or antique fabrics.
Linen Top
This beautiful handcrafted linen top was pieced together from two tablecloths and is ready to wear to a garden party or to an outdoor event. AlteredStatesDesUSA is a wizard with a needle and scissors to create such a dreamy top. It can be acquired on Etsy for $160.
Upcycled Reversible Jacket
Imagine getting two jackets for the price of one! This coat was fabricated from thrifted bedspreads and is fully reversible and cozy. It was created by JustJacketsbyTerry on Etsy priced at $80.
Upcycled Vintage Quilt Bucket Hat
Who doesn’t love a bucket hat especially with patches of bright florals and solids! I would wear this thrifting and might even make a patchwork top to wear with it. I think RedemptionDry Goods is making the zero waste ethos available to all. This charmer is also on etsy and sells for $55.
Sweater Wool Mittens
We have seen items that are cool and here are mitten to keep you warm. Wool is amazing for its power to keep you warm even if it is wet. BequeTextile has created this one of a kind mitten set from wool sweaters and found buttons. No one could tell you that you are wearing their mittens and I kinda like that. If you go to their shop these are to be had for $45.
My next upcycling vintage textiles adventures lies ahead. I have a Vera Neumann tablecloth that has holes in it and will combine it with a thrift store fabric and some leftover fabric from another project to make something using this pattern. I MUST finish a tunic is almost done before I jump into this. Wish me luck!
People who upcycle vintage textiles have been keeping fabrics out of the waste stream for generations. This can help the planet be healthier. You can help these clever people by purchasing their items. I also hope if you find an upcycler, ask them if there are textiles they need in their work that you have at home and are ready to toss or donate. This is a great cause.
