Before I knew the word upcycle, I was already on it with my #RashReimagines projects. I aimed to increase the longevity of an item every time I started on an upcycle project. As I read more about the impact of our actions on the environment, I became more aware of how I refashioned these products. The overhaul had to be done (eco)consciously by considering its final result. An upcycle shouldn't do more harm than good; at times, a DIY project ends up creating more waste. A zero-waste project is an ultimate dream! So, here are a few questions I ask now before a makeover task.
1. Does the item really need an upcycle, or can it be used as something else without doing anything to it?
Sometimes all you need is to change the utility of the product. Just reimagine its use. For example, a copper water jug I had, unfortunately, had a crack, and the water just seeped out. Instead of throwing it out, I used it as a vase for artificial flowers.
2. Will a quick fix work?
At times an item needs a little bit of love. A simple stitch might be a solution. Patchwork, darning, or embroidery work can adorn the holes and worn-out areas. A new paint job or a good cleaning can give a refreshed look. So, always think about a quick fix before starting a DIY makeover, as I did here.
3. Can I keep the silhouette intact?
If a shirt remains a shirt, that's a big win because just cutting it might lead to unnecessary waste. It's especially true for garments that shed microplastics. You don't want your DIY project to create more waste in the process. So, maintaining the silhouette or shape of a product is a crucial step too.
4. What's the material of the product?
Always consider the material of the item you are about to upcycle. There are a few benefits to this.
- The mere touch and feel of an item will give you an idea about its tenacity, strength, moldability, and durability. Use this information to think about a rational reimagination of the object. For example, I didn't want the georgette lining of the jacket I was making over to go to waste. So, considering the fabric, I came up with the idea of making scrunchies that are good for the hair.
- If you know the material, you can take care of your upcycled product in the future. Our DIY's longevity increases because of proper care. For example, if you make something from an authentic wool sweater, you know that whatever product you make can't be put in a dryer because it'll shrink.
- If you know the fabric, you'll also have an idea if it sheds microplastics so you can decide your upcycle process accordingly.
- Fabric info will also give you an idea of how long it will take to break down. So if it's polyester, you would want it to stay away from the landfills as long as possible.
Woah! It's clear, knowing the material is critical.
5. What will help increase the product's longevity?
It shouldn't be an upcycle just for the 'gram or clicks. The upcycle should genuinely improve the lifespan of the original material. So, think about how the refashioned product has future use in real life.
6. Can you do something with the off-cuts?
No waste left behind is the motto here. If you can reimagine the waste from your DIY, that would be the best. Zero waste upcycle process is the ultimate goal!
Please don't feel intimidated by these questions. They serve as a guide for a consciously done upcycle, which I think is the need of the hour. So, hopefully, they'll help you give a new life to an old product too!
Love,
Rashmi B.
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