Here is one of the two jackets I redesigned/upcycled for the Bestis (Bergans, Esmod, 'Tise) project. In the next blog post (of the other jacket) I'll post a link to my portfolio where I'll show the "before" photos!
Upcycling
Definition: "taking something that’s considered waste and repurposing it. The upcycled item often becomes more functional or beautiful than what it previously was. That’s why it’s called upcycling, because the value of the item is increased!" - Upcycle That (Check them out here!)
Upcycling and redesign is more or less the same thing, and like the definition by Upcycle That says, it's making something old and unwanted into something that feels new, exciting, and wanted. That was our goal when taking on the challenge from Bergans and 'Tise of making old and unwanted Bergans clothes donated to Bergans into "new" and more interesting garments, and thereby prolonging the garments life. The more time a garment is on a person, in a closet, or even in a box (not preferable tho..), the less time it is in a dump that's growing larger by the minute. We think we are being so good when we manage to get rid of stuff - getting rid of stuff has a positive connotation to it even though it should be associated with something negative, which is closer to littering than cleaning up - but the sad truth is that we always end up replacing what we just got rid of with something new. Because then we have "room for it" or we "need a new one," "better one, " "trendier one." Of course one needs stuff from time to time, but sometimes we only "need it" because what we have isn't good enough anymore. If you have a few creative bones in your body, or Pinterest (or check out the link above to Upcycle That and the link below to Happy DIY Home!), you should try to redesign/upcycle what you already have if it's possible. Or at least think twice before buying the next thing - maybe you have something very similar, or can buy it used? One last encouragement: if you're going to buy something new, you should at least focus on quality and buy from smaller chains/stores where you pay what the item is actually worth!
17 cool upcycling ideas at Happy DIY Home
Upcycle away!! :)