Upcycling 201

Fast fashion is out! Learn how to take used or old clothing and transform them into something new!

In this two-part class you will start by scouting out perfect finds from a thrift store or your own closet using our tailored guide. We will cover several methods of repair and transformation such as visible mending, patches, tailoring, and complete garment reworking. The possibilities for repurposing clothing and textiles are endless!

Day one: Visible Mending/ Repair. Patching holes, embellishing with embroidery. Second half of class one we will focus on hems, minor alterations/ fit adjustments.

Day Two: Complete garment reworking, this could be changing the sleeves on a sweatshirt, turning a garment into a bag, or combining two garments. Depending on your project, you could finish a good portion of it or complete it entirely.

Prerequisite: Sewing 101 and 102

Skill level: Intermediate

Class Hours: 2 classes at 2.5 hours each (total 5 hours)

Prework: Find clothing prior to class

• Sewing Machine
• Matching Thread
• Thrifted or old clothing including but not limited to (T- shirts, button down shirts, Jerseys, Blankets, Denim Jeans, Denim Jackets) *Find 3 or more pieces to work with

Prework: Find clothing prior to class

Sarah has a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design from Western Michigan University. When not teaching at Fabricate Studios or traveling, you can find Sarah at her studio Revive Threads Co. where she loves creating sustainable clothing by upcycling amazing treasures and vintage fabrics. All of the clothing at Revive Threads is made from 90%-100% recycled materials.

Before launching Revive Threads Co. Sarah worked full-time in the industry using her skills in professional pattern making, technical pattern drafting, draping, and bringing paper to life at an apparel company in the metro Atlanta area. Sarah has over 8 years of hands-on experience that she willingly shares with the students at Fabricate Studios.