Upcycling and Repurposing Clothing Series - Sew Savvy Series ( Individual In-Person Workshop)

Instructor: Shironda Williams-Davis
Objective: Transform old clothes into new items, promoting sustainability and creativity.
Workshops: T-Shirt Upcycle, Men's Shirts Upcycle, Long Dress Upcycle, Jacket/Blazer Upcycle, Blue Jeans Upcycle.
Duration: 2 hours each

Workshop 1: T-Shirt Upcycle

Projects: Turn a t-shirt into a tote bag, pillow cover, or tank top.

Agenda:

Registration and Welcome

• Participants sign in and receive welcome packets.
• Light refreshments and brief introductions.

Introduction to T-Shirt Upcycling

• Overview of the workshop objectives and schedule.
• Discuss the benefits of upcycling and repurposing clothing.
• Introduction to the project options.

Selecting and Preparing T-Shirts

• How to choose the right t-shirts for upcycling.
• Tips on fabric care and preparation.
• Hands-on activity: Participants select and prepare their t-shirts.

Project Demonstration and Techniques

• Step-by-step demonstration of each project.
• Techniques for cutting, sewing, and assembling upcycled items.
• Hands-on practice: Participants try out techniques on scrap fabric.

Hands-On Upcycling

• Participants work on their chosen project with individual assistance from the instructor.
• Troubleshooting common issues and tips for better results.
• Adding finishing touches (hemming, embellishments, etc.).

Show and Tell and Wrap-Up

• Participants share their completed upcycled items with the group.
• Discuss any challenges faced and how they were overcome.
• Provide positive feedback and encouragement.
• Q&A and distribution of handouts with upcycling tips and resources for further projects.
• Closing remarks 

Workshop 2: Men's Shirts Upcycle

Projects: Transform a men's shirt into a dress, skirt, or apron.

Agenda:

Registration and Welcome
Introduction to Men's Shirt Upcycling
Selecting and Preparing Men's Shirts
Project Demonstration and Techniques
Hands-On Upcycling
Show and Tell and Wrap-Up

Workshop 3: Long Dress Upcycle

Projects: Turn a long dress into a top, skirt, or two-piece set.

Agenda:

Registration and Welcome
Introduction to Long Dress Upcycling
Selecting and Preparing Long Dresses
Project Demonstration and Techniques
Hands-On Upcycling
Show and Tell and Wrap-Up

Workshop 4: Jacket/Blazer Upcycle

Projects: Transform a jacket or blazer into a dress, vest, skirt, or bag.

Agenda:

Registration and Welcome
Introduction to Jacket/Blazer Upcycling
Selecting and Preparing Jackets/Blazers
Project Demonstration and Techniques
Hands-On Upcycling
Show and Tell and Wrap-Up

Workshop 5: Blue Jeans Upcycle

Projects: Turn blue jeans into a skirt, shorts, or bag.

Agenda:

Registration and Welcome
Introduction to Blue Jeans Upcycling
Selecting and Preparing Blue Jeans
Project Demonstration and Techniques
Hands-On Upcycling
Show and Tell and Wrap-Up

Additional Information

Materials Provided:

• Sewing machines (if not brought by participants)
• Basic sewing kits (needles, thread, scissors, pins)
• Embellishments (buttons, patches, ribbons, etc.)
• Handouts with upcycling techniques and resources

What to Bring:

• Participants are welcome to bring their own sewing machines if they prefer.
• Old garments specific to the workshop theme.
• Any personal sewing tools they are comfortable using.

Outcome: Participants will leave each workshop with a completed upcycled item, a solid understanding of upcycling techniques, and the inspiration to transform more old clothes into new creations.