Upcycling fabric offcuts to produce fashion and crafts.

Abstract

This study focused on upcycling fabric offcuts to produce fashion and crafts. This study considered collection of fabric offcuts which are thrown and discarded by the tailoring industry. The study focused on alternating these offcuts by selecting them to produce fashion and craft items. Since the textile industry generates vast amounts of fabric offcuts which results in significant environmental and economic challenges, the study explored the concept of upcycling fabric offcuts as a sustainable solution in the reduction of textile waste and promotion of circular economy practices. Qualitative method of data collection, processing and analysis were used. Observations, descriptive, exploratory and experiment descriptions were used to collect data. Studio experimentation was carried out in which twenty six (26) fashion and craft items were produced. The researcher found out that these fabric offcuts often deemed waste, possess untapped potential.. They are not mere remnants but are valuable resources that, with a blend of creativity and strategy, can be transformed into products of immense value and utility. This upcycling initiative resonates strongly with the global call for sustainability, with the benefit of fostering creativity and innovation. It was therefore recommended that the tailoring industry should establish collaborative mechanisms with the craft sector, facilitating a smooth transfer of fabric offcuts for repurposing which promotes knowledge about sustainable and eco-friendly practices in fashion and crafting industries, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact.