Recycled Fashion

Rotary Dial Telephones

2013-06-18T21:40:00.003+10:00

Technology has advanced at such a rapid rate, and in one such example, telephonic communication. The device we use to communicate each other with, has changed shape, size and structure in a relatively short time frame.

Rotary dial telephones (which are now considered 'vintage') were the norm in my childhood, crackly telephone lines were common, and forget 'smart phones', mobile phones were non existent.

In a few short decades, with the recent introduction of internet (VoIP) calls, and the ability to obtain a SIM card for a mobile phone for as little as $2, is it any wonder that the home telephone line is becoming obsolete?

I had a conversation with a friend of mine recently that has obtained a home telephone line for her new home, she mentioned she'd like to get a rotary dial phone for it. I had to break it to her that the times I have found rotary dial telephones on thrifty escapades, which is a rarity, they have not come at a thrifty price. Despite the downturn in home telephone lines, it appears the chunky dial rotary is in demand, more-so for a decorative piece than to be used to talk with.

I've searched for a few rotary dial telephones on the usual second-hand trading websites, and find prices range from $25 to well over $300 depending on the style and era.

Some fine examples of dial telephones in all their rotary glory:

Rotary Dial Blue Telephone

:: Lemonslittlelovelies ::

Vintage 1969 Yellow Rotary Dial Telephone

:: 4Good4Good ::

Cherry Red Rotary Dial Telephone

:: St Paul Picker ::

Vintage Chocolate Brown Donut Rotary Dial Telephone

:: Kissiana ::

Interestingly, it appears some rotary dial telephones have also experienced somewhat of an upcycle manifestation too:

Vintage Rotary Telephone Lamp

:: Benclifdesigns ::

Amazonia Glitzed Upcycled Rotary Telephone (working)

:: Lovekittypink ::

Josephine Baker Glitzed Rotary Dial Telephone (working)

:: Lovekittypink ::

Readers, do you recall using the rotary dial telephone prior to the existence of mobile phones? Do you embrace the use of a rotary dial telephone as a decorative piece? Have you had success in finding a rotary dial telephone during your thrift store or opportunity shop travels?

Exhibiting Recycled Fashion in an Art Show

2013-06-17T09:41:00.000+10:00

Last month I mentioned I'd entered my upholstery patch dress and zipper brooches into the City of Port Phillip's art exhibition.

The Creative SustainAbility Exhibition focuses on 'local environmental themed artworks' held at The Gallery at St Kilda Town Hall, running from Tuesday 29 May to Wednesday 26 June.

In all honesty, I really didn't know if either of my pieces would be accepted; would either constitute as 'art'? Both pieces were accepted into the exhibition, and are currently on display at the St Kilda Town Hall!

The opening took place last week in conjunction with World Environment Day 2013; a fun filled event with free workshops, speeches, kids activities, lovely vegetarian food and drinks. The City of Port Phillip Council always do well with their sustainability themed events.

Some happy snaps from the exhibition and night:

:: Upcycled Upholstery Patch Dress and Zipper Brooches on display ::

:: Zipper Brooches ::

:: "Cleo" Bottle cap dress with head piece made by 84 year old Margaret Wells ::

Description of Artwork

“Cleo”
'I have hammered, drilled and interlocked bottle tops and beer cans
transforming them into a wearable three piece garment. The
reworking and recycling of these materials has produced a feminine
costume that inspires the imagination with overtones of cultural
influences.' Margaret Wells

:: "White Lace" sculpture by Maria Simonelli, made from doilies and tree branches ::

:: "Toto Finds Face" painting based on a found object at the beach by Janita Ryan" ::

:: "Moon Lion's Journey" mechanical piece by James Cattell ::

:: Flower photography by Kinesiologist Annette Zerrenthin ::

:: Dye workshop ::

:: Junior RF having fun painting a recycled newspaper covered cow ::

I'd say the chances of my work being exhibited in a public art gallery in the future may be slim, but to say I've once had two of my own handmade pieces displayed in a public gallery, is one huge personal achievement.

Natural Indigo Dyed Tee and Workshop

2013-06-12T09:25:00.001+10:00

Synthetic dye is regularly used to colour everyday clothing we buy and wear. Such dye can be laden with chemicals which are harmful to our skin and our environment. You can read a little more on the not-so-great world of synthetic dye on an article here on nicefashion.org

Synthetic dyes have not always been in existence, the age old craft of dying fabric using natural plant colour has been in use for centuries. One such dye that you may be familiar with, is natural indigo, an organic blue substance, obtained from the indigofera tinctoria plant - one of the original sources of indigo dye.

I took part in a Natural Indigo Dye workshop last Thursday, offered by Melbourne based designer and crafter Myf, held at St Kilda Town Hall as part of The City of Port Phillip's Creative SustainAbility event.

Her 45 minute class introduced us to resistance techniques such as clamping, scrunching, tying with string, using marbles, elastic bands and sticks, which result in different shapes and patterns on our chosen material.

I scrunched and tied the top and sleeves of my long sleeve cotton tee, and marbled the bottom:

After scrunching, tying and attaching marbles, it is time to dunk the garment in a bucket filled with indigo dye, gloves are essential. After dunking the appropriate number of times to achieve the required blue shade, it is time to rinse the tee in warm water, and leave to dry.

Worth noting, indigo dye has a very potent smell, I rinsed my tee out a few more times at home to rid the garment of its distinctive indigo odor.

My favourite technique, is the use of marbles with elastic bands, which I used on the lower part of my cotton tee:

Apparently, if I had not tied my elastic bands too tight around my marbles, I would have achieved more of a flower pattern than circle:

Shibori marble dye :: Pop & Scott::

I have worn my tee:

Won't fit The Bump for long

Melbourne based folk, fear not if you missed last week's workshop. Myf offers natural dye workshops held at Pop & Scott Workshop Cooperative in Northcote. Her next Alchemy workshop is on this weekend, on Sunday 16th June. It will be a three hour class, where she will be teaching the application of colour to textiles using natural dye. More details here, and here.

If you live in Australia and would like to buy natural dye by mail order, you can do so via kraftkolour.

Don't forget to enter our Pretty Caps giveaway, competition closes on 26th June.

Pretty Caps Giveaway

2013-06-11T13:10:00.004+10:00

Twist metal bottle caps, quite annoying little things I find. I found out today, that placing loose metal bottle caps into the recycling bin, probably isn't the best thing to do. According to an article on Planet Ark, steel metal caps can indeed be recycled, but, loose bottle tops are actually too small to go through sorting machines.

"The best way to recycle them is to collect them in an empty steel can and when the can is about half full squeeze the top closed and put the can and tops in the recycling bin." More here

It seems though, there are ways to upcycle metal bottle caps into something pretty, as Laura Cohen, from Montreal in Canada demonstrates with her online jewellery shop Pretty Caps.

"I am an artist from Montreal who enjoys finding innovative ways to reappropriate bottle caps from around the world into fashion accessories" Laura, Pretty Caps.

Laura, Pretty Caps.

Laura makes quirky little pieces out of collected caps, including magnets, necklaces, earrings, brooches, pendants and rings. She sent me a gorgeous pair of earrings to try out.

She calls these earrings 'Clip-on Candy Caps', handmade with seashells and Eastern European bottle caps (Latvian, German, Russian, Estonian). Fun, eco-friendly, and can be worn with or without ear piercings.

I have a pair of these little pretties to giveaway to one Recycled Fashion reader, to enter, pop by Pretty Caps on facebook and give Laura's page a little 'like'. Browse Pretty Caps on Etsy, and leave a comment below with which Pretty Cap creation is your favourite and why. Competition is open to worldwide readers, and will close on 26th June 2013.

Two and a Half Hour Tunic

2013-06-08T16:58:00.002+10:00

You may recall some fabric I found on my last op shop tour, $4 from Vinnie's in Hampton, material that popped out at me when I least expected, right at the top of a trolley o' fabric:

Once unraveled, I soon realised I had metres of the stuff, I haven't actually calculated how much of it I have, but it is a lot. The fabric is polyester, but the quality is good, screen printed in Japan.

Going back to one of my first ever pieces made from scratch; a tunic made from a sheet, I've used the same 1980's eBay'd sewing pattern to make another tunic dress for myself out of this super material.

Once again, I did not go with the contrast angular panels as seen in the pattern image, instead taping the tissue pattern pieces together to cut the tunic front whole.

The entire tunic took me 2.5 hours from beginning to end. It is a simple pattern, and easy to sew, I added a further half an hour onto my time as I decided to make a matching sash belt. As it turns out, the tunic looks better without the belt:

Tunic with sash belt

Tunic with sash from the back

Tunic without sash

Covering the bump, for now, not for too long though

I wore it to the Creative SustainAbility exhibition opening last night in St Kilda, where my upcycled upholstery sample patch dress and zipper brooches are on display in the St Kilda Town Hall Gallery. I will be writing a separate blog post on the exhibition opening night shortly:

Shared with Visible Monday , The Thrift Collective and Handmaker's Factory.

Recycled Fashion Finds #68

2013-06-07T14:07:00.005+10:00

Hi Readers, have you been on a thrifty fashion escapade recently? Made something groovy out of a bed sheet? Altered a hem, or just shopped your own wardrobe for a thrifty outfit? Do share!

Thrifty Fabric stash at

Brotherhood of St Laurence Opportunity Shop in Bentleigh

Link up your recent thrift store finds or creations in this week's Recycled Fashion Finds, and check out the last RFF link up right here for inspiration.

If you do link up, don't forget to grab yourself a Recycled Fashion Finds blog badge for your blog post or side bar, or link Recycled Fashion Finds in your blog post.

Link up your thrifted finds or upcycled creations, into the inlinkz link below. Feel free to share more than one project or thrifty find, it's always great to see what you've been up to.

5 Top Tips for Op Shopping in The Thrifty Issue

2013-06-06T10:40:00.001+10:00

My first guest blog post has been published on The Thrifty Issue's Clothing Corner; 5 Top Tips for Op Shopping (for Fashion)

"Buying second fashion in opportunity shops is easy to do, but if you want to maximise your time and money wisely, here are a few tips I will suggest to help you find your bargains"

Head over to The Thrifty Issue here to read more.

SwapEtc.

2013-06-06T09:28:00.002+10:00

Usually, we find websites dedicated to selling used goods, or websites which advertise items to give away. There is a new website called Swap Etc. that advertises used goods a little differently, to swap, sell, buy or borrow:

"At SwapEtc., you can swap, sell, buy or borrow with the people you know. We believe that swapping and borrowing work best when there's an element of trust and familiarity with the people involved. So we strongly encourage you to reach out to your friends and neighbors and form an online group on SwapEtc.

You never know who needs what you have. At the very least, you've gotten yourself a new friend.
Don't have any goods in your name but you have a special talent in say, public speaking? Maybe being the presenter at your neighbor's wedding might just score you free use of their car while they're away on honeymoon. At Swap Etc., we say so long as you're sitting on stuff or you have skills (and everyone has a special knack for something), you have something to list." *Swapetc.com

SwapEtc. is an online marketplace that allows members to list and share details of their items and services with their friends.

Items/services can be listed on SwapEtc. for free. Each listing entitles you to 2 images. If you wish to include more images, subsequent image will be charged at 1 credit each.

Because SwapEtc. operates on the concept that trading in used goods works best with the people you know, members are encouraged to connect and form groups with their friends – it’s like taking social networking to the next level. SwapEtc. also allows members to manage the exclusivity of their listings by allowing groups to be set as either public or private groups. Here’s an illustration from the site on how it works:

I browsed through SwapEtc.'s marketplace, specifically under the 'her' section, which brings up a list of used clothes listed for sale:

There are also baby items on the site – choice picks include the Ninna Nanna Bassinet and a Nurseryworks Sleepytime Rocker for nursing mums.

Another interesting feature that SwapEtc. offers is the multi –party swap transaction feature where more than 2 members are invited to a transaction in order to increase the chance that everyone can get what they want. If you wish to enter into short term transactions (or borrow – very useful for baby items), SwapEtc. also has a ‘borrow’ feature which lets you borrow items from your friends and allows you to manage inventory.

In order to swap, borrow, buy, or 'make an offer', you have to register first (this takes a few minutes, as I've just experienced).

The idea of swapping used goods is nothing new, but is rarely done in an online capacity. Usually, we consider swapping at clothing exchange events and swap meets. It is evident that the site is still in its infancy, but perhaps with a bit of word of mouth, the idea may take off.

Check out SwapEtc.'s website for more details.

Heidi and Seek Upcycled Women's Clothing

2013-06-03T21:05:00.005+10:00

There are times when writing a blog introduces you to great people, individuals that share a similar interests and passions. Meeting other blog writers face-to-face however, is somewhat of a rarity. (unless attending an organised event such the Nuffnang Op Shop Crawl which took place in March this year).

The first time I did meet a blog writer face-to-face, was an afternoon spent with Hayley Lau. Hayley helped me create one of my first ever refashions, at a time when I decided I'd like to sew and make recycled clothes of my own. She helped me piece together a reconstructed t-shirt dress; an idea I had after buying two separate second-hand garments from local opportunity shops.

At the time, Hayley had been taking a break from her successful upcycled women's fashion line Heidi & Seek. After a few years absence, Hayley has recently returned to her creative venture, and Heidi & Seek is reborn:

:: Black Peacock Upcycled Long Sleeved T-shirt ::

PREVIOUSLY:
thrifted peacock print scarf
thrifted bell sleeved top
thrifted top

:: Coral Tie Dye Upcycled Crop T-shirt ::

PREVIOUSLY:
thrifted plus sized dress
thrifted tshirt

:: Cream and Tribal Print Upcycled Long Sleeved Top ::

PREVIOUSLY:
various thrifted tops

:: Upcycled Dress in Brown, Purple and Red ::

PREVIOUSLY:
thrifted scarf
thrifted tunic

:: Red and Black Recycled Party Prom Dress:

PREVIOUSLY:
black vintage top
thrifted floral skirt
thrifted black skirt
thrifted wrap top
local designer remnant trim
discarded jewelery

:: Upcycled Top Long Sleeved in Pale Blue and Grey ::

PREVIOUSLY:
thrifted tops
thrifted polo shirt collar

Hayley's style and creatively is unique. Her one-of-a-kind pieces are edgy yet easy to wear, flattering, and above all, eco-friendly - recycling existing garments into 'new'.

If you'd like to check out Heidi & Seek's full collection, you can do so here.

Being Thrifty

2013-06-02T11:14:00.000+10:00

Readers, there is a relatively new blog on the block that I think you'll like, the The Thrifty Issue, a site dedicated to saving money, time and stress in all aspects of our lives.

I'm particularly enjoying The Thrifty Issue's Worthy Wine write ups; top hints, tips and pointers about drinking and enjoying a cheaper bottle of plonk, tried and tested wines for under $10!

The following Guest Post is written by The Thrifty Issue's creator Alison, explaining a little more about what it is like to be thrifty, and whether being thrifty is something we are born with?!:

The great debate of nature vs nuture is often discussed in our home. Are you born a tight arse, or does it come with training and lifestyle experiences?

I believe I was born a junior tight-arse into a family of perfectly formed tight-arses!

I’m probably exaggerating a little. I had a very comfortable childhood, and it was a rare occasion that I would miss out on something due to financial restraints.

In my twenties, I found myself in a city (Melbourne) with food and retail temptations aplenty! I burned through my income on Chapel Street on Saturday mornings, then burned through my credit cards at the George Wine Bar on Saturday nights. Before too long, I was deeply in debt and paying my girlfriend back the $20 I borrowed last Friday, to only borrow it again on Monday. It was during this time, that I had a good hard look at myself, and decided that life was a lot more comfortable when you weren’t continually stressed about money.

For me, being thrifty is not about being short on cash … it’s about being smart with your cash so you can enjoy your life to its fullest.

thrift·y

Spelled [thrif-tee]

adjective, thrift·i·er, thrift·i·est.

1. practicing thrift or economical management; frugal: a thrifty shopper.

2. thriving, prosperous, or successful.

3. thriving physically; growing vigorously.

Source: Dictionary.com

The above definition shows how closely related the words “thrifty” and “thriving” are. I literally thrive on being thrifty, being able to save money and find bargains for my family. I love recycling and getting back to nature, and teaching the kids about sustainability and eco-friendly living. Even in inner-city or suburban living, all these things are easily achieved.

Whether I like it or not, my natural instinct is to find ways to do everything for less.

Less money … less time … and less stress!

So whilst being thrifty is predominantly about saving money … I do like to diversify and save on basically everything. At The Thrifty Issue, you will often come across articles about getting organised, creating home comforts, healthy eating, mindful shopping tips, gift guides and tips on entertaining yourself and your family.

The Thrifty Issue is my place to share with you. It’s a place to meet and greet, to share and explore topics like Fashion, Food and Wine, Craft, Activities and Lifestyles.

A collection of fabulous bloggers have contributed some stylish, funky and fun tips to The Thrifty Issue. I am excited to announce that we are also teaming up with Erica from Recycled-Fashion to bring you some creative and thrifty fashion posts in the very near future!

Jump on board so you don’t miss out!

Alison x

You can also follow The Thrifty Issue on facebook.

Making Your Own Leggings

2013-05-31T09:11:00.000+10:00

Chilly weather is setting in as winter hits the Southern Hemisphere. A year ago, I'd written a blog post reflecting refashions that can be done with a seasonal change in weather (seen here), and once again I'm thinking of ways to cover up, particularly bare legs.

Leggings worn as pants (trousers) may still be considered a fashion faux pas for some, but I for one, embrace them. My personal choice for wearing leggings, would be worn underneath tunics or dresses, but I must admit I'm a bit bored with black.

Desiree on Pull Your Sox Up! rocks Black Milk leggings, I admire her vibrant choices, you can see a glimpse into her fabulous collection here.

So I'm looking around the www to inspire, and find the following pairs of Alexander McQueen leggings on uniprice:

Butterfly Camo

Wing Print

Print and Brown Print

They do look great, and I'm sure good value for a designer brand, but I'm wondering if it possible, to make a pair at home instead of buying new?

There is a very detailed step by step guide found on etsy's blog: How-Tuesday: Design and Sew Your Own Leggings

:: etsy.com blog ::

And The Crafty Gemini has a YouTube video showing how to make a pair:

I recall sewing with Lycra before, when turning an old bra into a bikini top, and remember reading one great tip when sewing with Lycra or spandex - always use the zig zag stitch on your sewing machine. (more tips for sewing with Lycra found here)

So making a pair of leggings actually looks easy enough to do, and sewing with stretch fabric shouldn't be a problem, so now it is just a case of finding appropriate Lycra or stretch fabric to make a pair with.

What do you think readers, would you attempt to make a pair of leggings, or would you rather buy a pair?

TOMS Shoe Refashion Inspiration

2013-05-29T12:47:00.002+10:00

One day, I'd like to own a pair of TOMS shoes. I'm sure most readers will know the designs and concept behind TOMS shoes, if you don't here is the low down:

TOMS is the idea that one man (Blake Mycoskie) had to create a sustainable business which helps children around the world growing up without shoes. The concept is this; a 'One for One'. You buy a pair of TOMS shoes, then TOMS promises to give one pair of new shoes to a needy child somewhere for every pair purchased. It is said that millions of shoes have been given to needy children around the world since its inception in 2006.

The company recently expanded its unique business model to include TOMS Eyewear, helping to save and restore sight for those in need.

Whether you are aware of TOMS One to One concept or not, you may well be familiar with TOMS shoe designs, particularity their classic shape, which have unfortunately been copied by many high street retailers:

TOMS Classics

Because TOMS have been around for many years, we see well loved shoes experiencing natural wear and tear on the toe and heel. A few clever folk have been prolonging their TOMS by covering tears with fabric:

TOMS Fabric cover tutorial seen on Elemental Carbon

Other creative folk have been customising their pair of TOMS by painting, drawing and gluing:

Glitter TOMS seen on Shiny Happy Bird

Studded TOMS seen on Leopard & Lace

Before and after upholstered TOMS seen on Jeannie Talks

Fabric and button covered TOMS tutorial on Handmade Homemaker

Customised R2D2 TOMS by New York based artist Kara Setkiewicz seen here

Whale and Boat customised TOMS by Kasleberry

Custom Handpainted Ikat TOMS by metalnlace

Ronchamp Chaple sketched on TOMS by Slipoffs

Kimi decided to take apart her trashed TOMS and make them into a pair of summer sandals:

DIY TOMS Sandals seen on Midwestern Thread

And I'll leave you with ..

Doodle TOMS YouTube video by artist Turtle Wayne

So there you have it, not only are you doing good by buying a new pair of TOMS, it appears you can most certainly prolong their wearable life, plus you can customise to your own style if you so wish.

Buying Second Hand Clothes for Maternity Wear

2013-05-27T14:03:00.001+10:00

I am well on the way to establishing a decent thrifty maternity wear wardrobe for the coming months. Being that I previously had no suitable clothes for an expanding belly, and absolutely refuse to buy retail-new maternity brands, I have so far purchased some second-hand additions, and adapted a pair of existing jeans. I intend on making / refashioning a few extra's as baby grows.

I search opportunity shops with a sole purpose of covering an expanding belly, but do not go looking for the traditional (boring) belly-banded jeans, instead, I try find other interesting ways to accommodate my larger waistline. Here's how:

Jersey Fabric

Jersey fabric is my best friend! Jersey fabric is made with a light weight yarn, and (can be) very stretchy. The most common clothing garment made with jersey fabric is the t-shirt, yet draped dresses and tops can also be made from the same stretch material. My favourite purchase so far, is a sleeveless mod style jersey dress, with a stretch at the waist, which I found in my local Vinnies for $6. In my mid pregnancy stages this will be my go-to winter garment, matched with tights (stockings) and a long sleeved top underneath. I know that as I hit the latter part of my third trimester, this dress will probably not fit anymore, but for now, it is perfect. Bonus points that I can wear it when I am not pregnant too!

Larger Sized Tops and Blouses

It may seem obvious to buy loose fitting blouses and tops for comfort around a growing bump, and yes I have purchased a few second-hand loose fit tops. However, what I have been doing more-so, is looking at tops larger than my usual size. This particular blouse, which cost $2.50 from a local opportunity shop, is four sizes bigger than what I usually wear. At this stage, when my bump is not too huge and we are in the middle of winter, I wear it with a vest, a cardigan, and/or a jacket over the top.

Elastic waists

Can we see a trend here? S-T-R-E-T-C-H!. We all know that elastic stretches, and therefore, when on the lookout for a skirt, I'm searching for one with an elasticated waist that will grow with me. I recall in my last pregnancy, wearing elasticated waist skirts underneath my huge bump, and intend to do the same this time. My favourite elastic waist skirts found recently, include these two skirts found on my recent op-shop tour. The blue skirt was $6, and the black asymmetrical skirt with draped fabric, $10, both from Salvos. (I am wearing the blue skirt in the image below):

Tops with extra length

It is commonly known that when a belly starts to grow, tops and blouses tend to ride high above it, which can cause skin to show, oh no! Belly bands are perfect to alleviate this problem, however, I have also been on the look out for tops that have extra length. With a bonus 10-20cm or so included to a top's usual length (which would normally stop at the waist) makes the world of difference. There is a DIY way to solve this problem, and that would be to sew an additional strip of fabric to the bottom of an existing top. I've yet to try this out yet, for now, longer length tops and belly bands will do.

Readers, do you have any additional tips for adding to a second-hand maternity wardrobe?

Deceptive Feather Earrings

2013-05-26T12:35:00.000+10:00

Readers that follow Recycled Fashion on facebook, will have seen an image shared on the page from a market stall holder at Bend and Snap Market held once a month in Melbourne:

'Feather' earrings by Tread & Pedals

I feel compelled to write a little more about these earrings, because they are not actually feathers at all, but handcrafted from a recycled bike inner tube. The clever, cruelty free, vegan feather!

:: Tread & Pedals ::

Tread & Pedals is a small online boutique run by a Melbourne couple Ivan and Em:

"Tread & Pedals was born when Ivan was working as workshop manager in a large Melbourne bike store. We were amazed with the amount of bicycle parts that went straight to the tip. It was shocking to think about the quantity of waste produced by what we’d always thought of as a sustainable form of transport. We decided to try and make something of this so called trash and started looking at the bike parts in a different way. Ivan ventured off into the “Man Cave” and emerged with a bottle opener made from a cog and chain… the rest just kind of happened from there." Tread & Pearls

Other items offered for sale through Tread & Pedals include cog clocks, bike tyre belts, bike chain cufflinks and more, although my personal favourites are definitely the clever feathers!

:: Tread & Pedals ::

Disclaimer; the review and opinion provided in this blog post is unbiased and unpaid

Recycled Surf T-shirt Children's Hoodie

2013-05-22T08:58:00.001+10:00

It's been a while since I've made anything for my not-so-little-anymore boy, two years in fact, and really wanted to make him a long sleeved top for winter.

Using Lil Blue Boo's boy's hoodie pattern, I've made him a new hoodie using second hand recycled t-shirts.

The three t-shirt's I choose to make his hoodie, were navy and white. The surfing t-shirt appeared to be a souvenir from a Coke / Quicksilver sponsored surf contest in Margaret River, WA. I've cut away the circular surf dude on the front, you not may be able to see here, but the top and bottom of the circle have shark teeth, which resembles a shark jaw - I've used it as an applique for the front of the hoodie.

(NB: The green t-shirt seen above, has been used to make a t-shirt tote bag, not used in this hoodie project, as seen in this blog post)

I don't have any 'in-action' photographs, sewing and using my PDF pattern, but here is the finished hoodie:

Close up of the back, I've cut away another part of the surfing tee for a smaller back applique:

And, the new hoodie, posed by the soon to be big brother:

I love making these hoodies, I'll make some more if I find some cool second hand tee's on my journey's.

Up and Coming Workshops

2013-05-21T10:48:00.002+10:00

Short workshops are a great way to learn a new skill without the need to go to TAFE or University. There are many places you can go to learn a new skill, technique, or hobby, taught by individuals that are more than happy to teach their chosen craft or profession to others.

As some of you already know, occasionally I teach recycled craft workshops in and around Melbourne, sometimes offering pop up classes by request. I recently taught a recycled craft class to a class of Year 9's at a Melbourne based school. They were in their final week of a sustainability unit. This particular class taught students how to weave bracelets out of chip packets, and bracelets out of magazines. Isn't it great that schools are embracing sustainability subjects?

Chip packet bracelets

I have another workshop coming up on Sunday 9th June at The Colour Box Studio in Footscray, it will be a 3 hour workshop, making cereal box beads and recycled newspaper bowls. More details can be found here. There are some other great workshops on offer at The Colour Box Studio that you can read about here.

If you're interested in attending a Melbourne based refashioning workshop, Leeyong Soo will be teaching a refashioning workshop at The Light Factory on Saturday 20th July, more details can be found here.

I understand there is a worldwide audience that read Recycled Fashion, therefore Melbourne based workshops would not apply. Keep an eye out for activities going on in your own town via 'what's on' guides, local newspapers, or notices in shop windows. Do check out your local community centre, often offering affordable classes on a variety of different topics.

May Op Shop Tour Wrap Up

2013-05-20T09:18:00.000+10:00

We are now in the midst of another Melbourne winter, and Saturday's op shop tour proved that! With a full day of rain predicted, 14 op shoppers (including myself) set off on a second hand shopping expedition to 6 op shops, travelling through 3 suburbs. 5 ladies joined the tour on a weekend break from NSW, and emphasised the mediocre temperatures in Melbourne vs Newcastle.

Weather never puts a dampener on op shopping though, as we travelled in search of second hand treasures dressed in raincoats, umbrella's and hats.

I wore my new neck warmer scarf, made with felted merino wool and the cutest deer fabric, purchased from a talented friend.

I also made myself another recycled t-shirt tote bag the day before, which is huge; perfect for a day dedicated to op shopping. Here it is, filled with my loot from the day (more on my purchases later):

Being a group of 14, we engulfed some of the smaller op shops, but not without success and good cheer from the op shop staff.

The day ended in blue skies and happy spirits, as 14 op shoppers walked away with plenty. As always, I rarely go looking for treasures when I'm leading an op shop tour myself, but sometimes, I just can't help it, temptation is too great.

My first find, a beautiful canvas Mediterranean scene oil painting for 50c, that I can't wait to get into a frame:

I can't help but feel sad for the artist, how did her/his fabulous piece find its way into a small church run op shop? A similar thought with this little piece of artwork found a few years ago.

A couple of skirts with elasticated waists, perfect for an expanding waistline, here is one:

A $2 woven leather fabric belt with a distinct South American feel, and a lovely piece of fabric for $4:

Fabric found in this trolley in Vinnies:

Trolley o'fabric

What I have come to realise when running an op shop tour whilst pregnant, is that I'll quickly seek out the furniture section, and have a sneaky sit down on one of the second hand chairs in-between shopping!

My next tour will be Saturday 13th July.

Recycled Fashion Finds # 67

2013-05-17T08:41:00.000+10:00

Hi Readers, have you been on a thrifty fashion escapade recently? I'm off on another op shop tour tomorrow morning, introducing 13 op shoppers to 6 op shops across 3 suburbs in Melbourne South East, fun! I sincerely hope the weather holds, its been raining for days, and being that Melbourne Op Shop Tours are super sustainable, we travel on public transport. Umbrella - check!

Speaking of op shopping, in a different part of the world, I spotted Franca's super write up: Guide to Edinburgh vintage and charity shops on her blog Oranges and Apples. Look how quaint Scottish vintage and charity shops are:

Edinburgh's Charity Shops c/o Oranges and Apples

If you find yourself in the Scottish Highlands, do bookmark her very useful guide.

What about you lot? Been thrifting? Bought something second-hand new? Or perhaps made or repurposed an existing garment? Worn an outfit consisting of second hand purchases? Do share!

Link up your recent thrift store finds or creations in this week's Recycled Fashion Finds, and check out the last RFF link up right here for inspiration.

If you do link up, don't forget to grab yourself a Recycled Fashion Finds blog badge for your blog post or side bar, or link Recycled Fashion Finds in your blog post.

Link up your thrifted finds or upcycled creations, into the inlinkz link below. Feel free to share more than one project or thrifty find, it's always great to see what you've been up to.

Expanding the Waistline of Jeans or Trousers

2013-05-15T11:30:00.001+10:00

Maternity jeans or trousers cost a small fortunte, in some retail outlets, you'd expect to pay a couple of hundred dollars for a pair. Expandable waistlines are probably needed for approximately 6 months of a pregnancy, so really, such a high cost for a short amount of wear, isn't worth the investment.

There is a company, Denim Therapy based in NYC, that offers a maternity service, inserting an expandable side seam into a pair of your existing jeans, the cost of doing so is $60.

Now, while $60 is cheaper than a few hundred dollars, and the service would probably help those that cannot sew, it is entirely possible to adjust a pair of jeans or trousers yourself, inserting a triangular jersey patch into each side seam.

I recall seeing a clever little trick earlier in the year, how to expand the waistline of a pair of jeans that are too small, I can't actually find that link, if I do, I'll update this blog post, but the same idea applies to maternity jeans.

I've adjusted a pair of my own jeans to fit, sewing two panels of t-shirt jersey fabric into each side seam.

Here's how:

You may recall I chopped the bottom away from a thrifted t-shirt to make my t-shirt grocery bag, seen here. This cut away fabric is the jersey I have used for my side seams.

I've cut two triangular shapes, double width fabric (folded) for each, then hemmed the top of my jersey triangles, by folding over, and using a zig-zag stitch:

Next, I've measured my triangles up against the side seams of my jeans:

And cut a straight line down each side, leaving approximately 5cm from the bottom of my triangles:

The next part is a little tricky, pinning my jersey triangle panels underneath each cut side seam, particularly as I'd cut very closely to the belt loop (which I could've removed and reattached, but didn't!):

I've then zig-zag stitched all the way down my cut away side seams, over the top of my jersey triangles:

Here's what the triangle side seams look like on the inside, a little messy, but that's OK:

I've made my side seams larger than I am right now at 12 weeks pregnant, as I still have a way to go. So for now, they are slightly loose fitting, but, with a belt, they fit perfectly. In the coming months, I'll no doubt eliminate the belt!

Worn with a top and jacket, you can barely see the side panel, plus, most importantly, they are comfortable to wear. It cost me less than a dollar worth of material to adjust these jeans, the jeans were also originally purchased for $5 from a trash and treasure market about 2 years ago:

Readers, do let me know if you'd tried this, or try it out in the future. You can use the same technique for adjusting a pair of trousers, jeans or a skirt, where the waistline is a little bit snug.

Maternity Recycled Fashion Inspiration

2013-05-11T15:58:00.000+10:00

Speaking as a blog writer and for the blogging community in general, the content we decide to publish on our blogs can at times be a tricky matter. Some writers choose to publish everything that happens in their life, the ups and the downs, the loss, the sorrow, the joy and the sadness. Others may decide to keep personal topics close to their chest.

Some blogs are purposely written about the everyday, others, which I think to be true for Recycled Fashion, are written without too much focus on the personal, but more-so the topic of it.

As much as I have contributing writers on Recycled Fashion, I am the sole writer for it, and as such, there are times when I feel some matters going on in my own personal life, should be shared; matters that may reflect the content of the blog.

So here I share some news, I’m expecting another baby. It’s such a huge yet very welcome surprise. We have battled many, many years of infertility, been through countless tests and fertility specialist appointments. Just at the time we’d come to the conclusion we’d be a family of three (plus cat!), we are going to become a family of four, and I can’t tell you how exciting that is.

Why might you think, is this a topic to share on Recycled Fashion? Well, mainly, due to the fact that I have an expanding waistline, quite quickly this time around, and that I have zero maternity clothes to wear over the next six months. What this means for Recycled Fashion, is that for a time, I’ll focus a little bit on ways to create wardrobe essentials for an expanding belly, using recycled fashion pieces and refashioning existing garments.

I’ve already started to add to my maternity wardrobe, in fact the skirt refashion I made last week, was purposely made with an elasticated waist!

I look forward to sharing some more recycled maternity fashion pieces with you in the coming months, but I promise you, that I will not flood this blog with baby news!

In the meantime, I'll show you a couple of projects that I’ve found on the internet which may come in useful, not just for myself, but for other expectant mothers that might be maternity clothes shopping on a budget.

Stretchy pocket DIY maternity jeans

As seen on See Kate Sew

Shirred men’s shirt tunic top

As seen on diymaternity.com

Maternity skirt pattern

As seen on Elle Apparel

Also readers, if you're waiting for this week's Recycled Fashion Finds, it'll be back next Friday, thanks for all of your link ups on the last one!

The Gatsby Winter Soirée - Melbourne Event TICKET GIVEAWAY

2013-05-08T11:54:00.000+10:00

And so, roaring twenties fashion is back, reinvented and revisited with the upcoming release of the much anticipated movie adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's best selling novel; The Great Gatsby. Set during a time of beautiful Art Deco architecture, of flapper dresses, pearls, headpieces and dapper suits.

The iconic novel-tuned-movie, has inspired many lavish champagne and vintage cocktail laden parties around the world, with one such event happening right here in Melbourne.

Astor Productions have arranged a ritzy night of hot jazz and chilled champagne, due to kick off at 8pm on Friday 31st May, at the grandeur Malvern Town Hall; The Gatsby Winter Soirée

"Dust off your wingtip shoes, get those flapper dresses out and take a step back to the roaring twenties with The Gatsby Winter Soirée."

There will be jazz, New Orleans style brass band music, and modern funk/soul repertoire from the 20's and 30's to get your feet tapping, plus classic cars, market stalls, a vintage photo booth and swing dancing performed on the night.

The dress code: "Dress to impress, swanky and spiffy. Think The Great Gatsby and Boardwalk Empire".

An opportunity to embrace the elegance, glamour and style of the era, from Flappers to Fly Boys, Dames to Dapper Dans, and all that is celebrated with 20's fashion.

Here are some ideas:

Headpiece by :: alofashion ::

:: Vogue ::

:: Books Brothers ::

:: vintagetextile.com ::

Tickets for The Gatsby Winter Soirée are $30 (plus booking fee) through www.oztix.com.au, or $35 on the door if still available. However, I have a set of two tickets to giveaway to one Recycled Fashion reader. To enter, you'll need to pop over to Astor Productions facebook page and hit 'like', we'd also like you to leave a comment below, with an idea of what you'd wear to the event should you win.

The competition will close on Wednesday 22nd May, (please provide a way for us to contact you) and the winner will be asked to provide a name + 1 which will be added to the doorlist.

Good luck Melbournites!

* COMPETITION NOW CLOSED, THE WINNER WILL BE CONTACTED VERY SHORTLY *

Too tight dress to maxi skirt refashion

2013-05-07T13:05:00.002+10:00

I found an incredible dress in my local op shop for $5, such a fantastic fabric print, but I have to say it was absolutely tiny, probably a size 6 Australian. Having unpicked the top stitches with my seam ripper, I am left with quite a substantial amount of fabric left to make a maxi dress for winter, to wear with boots.

Fabric leftover after unpicking top seams

Using the same technique as the starboard skirt, as seen in this tutorial, which I also used for my bed sheet skirt, I've elasticated only the back of the waist, the front I've stitched into a pleat.

It is exceptionally comfortable, and I'm loving its bright colours

Shared with Thrifters Anonymous and Refashion Co-op

Carnaby Street, London in the 60's

2013-05-06T11:51:00.003+10:00

In my early career, (before migrating to Australia) I worked in the heart of the London, commuting into Oxford Street on the city's infamous underground system, the Tube. Despite daily experiences of horrendous peak hour human traffic on public transport, countless train delays, and the occasional bomb threat, I have such fond memories of this time.

I reminisce a work hard / party hard lifestyle in one of the most happening cities in the world, in my early 20's, London was the place to be.

During my lunch break, I'd meander through some of the back streets of the West End, browsing boutique shops and department stores, partake in a spot of window shopping, and stop by Marks and Spencer for my takeaway sandwich to take back to the office.

One street that stands out in particular, the pedestrianised shopping street, Carnaby Street, in the district of Soho. The late 1990's was probably not the most memorable time to visit the iconic street, but one of the reasons I'd enjoy exploring this particular parade of shops and eateries, was to imagine reliving a time when this street became the place to be in the 1960's.

:: Wikipedia ::

My parents, living and working in central London in their late teens and early 20's, have colourful memories of the fashion scene in Carnaby Street during the 60's.

:: GC ::

Mum tells me: "It (Carnaby Street) was very colourful and a happy place to visit. There were all the little side streets that transformed the area into a buzzy place to be. I can remember a friend of mine buying an electric green mini dress, with bat wings sleeves. The colours were so vivid - lemon or electric lime green, and it cost a fortune at £9.19s 11p, (that's old money, pounds and shillings) that was more than 1 weeks wages at the time!"

Interview with photographer Philip Townsend

Dad remembers: "High collared tab shirts that were floral and also satin, and all very colourful. Hipster trousers with very flared legs, and huge bell bottom trousers. The men wore high healed Cuban shoes. Also very popular were military jackets of all description (if you could find a real military jacket you were god!). Kipper ties with made from the same fabric as the shirt; paisley. Anything colour floral or stripey was worn. Look at the cover of Sargent Pepper Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles, you will see the style of clothes at the time. It could also have been the first time loud music was played from all the shops.. happy days" he says.

:: Wikipedia ::

Carnaby Street, Christmas 1964

:: friendsreunited ::

Love in Carnaby Street :: Solo-Vintage ::

Carnaby Street, illustrated book by Tom Salter and Malcolm English

:: harrington books ::

I'll leave you with a snippet from fictional character Austin Powers, and his reenactment of London's swinging 60's:

If time travel were possible (ha, ha!) which era, and place would you like to go back to?

Upcycled Upholstery Patch Dress - Exhibition Worthy?

2013-05-01T09:06:00.000+10:00

The City of Port Phillip Council is one of the few Melbourne municipal districts that invests in sustainable community activities.

Historic events include Future Fashion Now a free event which showcased Melbourne, NSW and WA fashion designers, vintage suppliers, and crafty-persons that apply environmental or social sustainability principles to their creations and wares. The City of Port Phillip held a free upcycling workshop day in 2012, inviting artists in the Melbourne area to teach an upcycled skill to the general public. And lastly, in September 2012, the City of Port Phillip held a free Op Shop Tour by bike!

This week, I received an interesting email in my inbox from the Sustainability Programs Department at Port Phillip Council, advising of an up and coming exhibition running in conjunction with the World Environment Day event in June.

The Creative SustainAbility Exhibition focuses on 'local environmental themed artworks' which will be held at The Gallery at St Kilda Town Hall. The exhibition will run from Tuesday 29 May to Wednesday 26 June.

A few years ago, I made a dress using a thrifted upholstery sample pack I found at a recycle centre. New subscribers to Recycled Fashion may not have seen the dress, here it is:

I am not sure if my dress constitutes as 'art', however, I have put forward a detailed application to the City of Port Phillip, to display my dress in the exhibition, as well as one of my zipper brooches.

I find out next week, if my pieces have been accepted, will keep you updated.

Ikea Fabric Fashion

2013-04-29T09:13:00.004+10:00

Ikea, I have a bone to pick with you. I'm afraid your fabric is far too tempting to a thrifty stitcher. You are cheap, you are easy to obtain, and your designs are too good.

I do admit to shopping at your store on occasion Ikea, and sorry to say, I'm a sucker for your mushroom crepe, plus your free tea and coffee offered during the week, in your oh-so-invitingly cheap cafe.

Also, don't get me started on your picture frames, I own 7 of them now.

You see, the problem is, I can't bring myself to buy new material, I just can't. There is such an abundant of fabric that can be sourced second-hand, I can't justify it.

Although recently, I've been drooling over some of your material, thinking of ways to recreate it into a fashion piece. It appears I'm not alone, Ikea, I've found many others, all over the world, that think the same way about your way-too-inviting material.

In the United States Carly made a beautiful dress using Ikea fabric and Vogue pattern V106:

:: As seen on Chic Steals ::

In Hobart, Tasmania, a cute pinafore created with Ikea fabric and sold on Etsy by designer 3 Red Buttons:

:: As seen on Pinterest ::

In Slovenia, Tejka made a stunning 20's inspired dress using Ikea's nautical themed fabric:

:: As seen on BurdaStyle ::

In Holland, Sacha's little girl's dress combines a t-shirt with Ikea fabric

:: As seen on maarnietvangrijs ::

In Singapore, 'The Tropical Sewist' made a fur collared Ikea fabric dress using a vintage pattern.

:: As seen on BurdaStyle ::

Do you see what is happening here Ikea? Did you know? You are creating a global dress sewing phenomenon, with worldwide stitchers incorporating your very own fabric design into their work. Congratulations Ikea, you're onto something good here.

Although, I don't know if you are going to like this Ikea, but did you know that some of your fabric is sold second-hand online? It may not be as cheap your fabric in store, but, there are pre-owned Ikea material options available ...

I've got my eye on this Skyscraper fabric, although it is not quite large enough for a dress:

:: As seen here ::

Readers, do you shop at Ikea? What do you think of Ikea fabric?