Episodes
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Find all links and projects mentioned in this episode on the website:
https://www.ecofashionsewing.com/design-hacks/mix-and-match-colours-for-clothing/
Knowing how to mix and match colours for clothing (including upcycling) is critical design skill. It is one of the essentials that fashion designers apply to create aesthetically pleasing garments.
Therefore, it is a 'brake or make project' kind of thing for anyone who wants to recreate with existing clothing as well.
To give you heads up, donât click away if you donât like colourful. The design skill of mixing colours in clothing is still applicable to you, too.
The formulas work even for when you're the not-keen-on-wearing-too-colourful type.
Why Is Important And What Can You DoDesigners are spoiled to work with fabric from the roll which often is further colour coordinated as it's typically developed as a âcollectionâ, stream-lined in terms of colour.
But, in refashioning is very different. When it comes to reworking existing clothes, we have a bigger challenge. Combining too many different items of clothing could become an overwhelming task quickly.
So, don't be too hard on yourself if you canât figure it out on your own. Itâs what many sewists like you who want to create from existing clothes experience as well.
The good thing is that you donât need to be a fashion designer to make pleasing combinations!
This episode spells out what can make the task easier and most of all - fun :)
Highlights Inside This Episode:[2:00] Why itâs important to know how to work with colours, to mix and match colours for aesthetically pleasing result
[5:40] Short overview of what weâre covering in this episode (+ a teaser youâll love ;)
[6:30] How easy it is to use colour theory and the colour wheel to build up your colour coordinated combinations. Some traditional fashion formulas on how to mix and match colours for clothing.
Top 3 Fashion Formulas For Mixing And Matching Colours When Reworking Existing Clothing[9:50] Formula #1: Mix the same or neighbouring colours. My trick here is to also focus on mixing different textures.
[14:10] Next up, develop your design skills for combining colours with Formula #2: Mix and match colours from the same colour temperature. What are the two colour temperature in fashion design and what type of mood they imply.
[16:50] Great small but mighty tip how to recognise good colour combinations (powerful things are often very simple, right? This proves it, for sure!)
[17:30] Lastly, my secret formula #3: Create a contrast. Check out how to use it so you create smoother, more relaxed designs; or bolder, classy type of styles from colour standpoint.
[21:50] A side note tip on how you can start easy by adding colour in your projects (so you look beautiful wearing colours that suit you)
[23:10] Check out how to mix and match colours for clothing so to make more subtle and less bold contrasts.
Bonus Formula To Jumpstart Applying Colours Even If 'Not Your Thing'[26:00] At the end, a Bonus Formula: Use colour as an accent. Very easy to apply and start even when you donât like wearing colours. Without adding the âtoo colourfulâ effect, accents can make the main colour of the garment pop. Thatâs the easiest I know that can transform your project without making it multicolour. Itâs one of my favourite ways to bring colour to any design.
[28:00] Recap of the episode, good for getting the big picture
[32:00] Learn more about how to secure your seat in the upcoming FREE Masterclass on Clothes Upcycling
[32:50] Whatâs up on the podcast next time
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Follow these 7 key areas to set the right sewing machine settings for T-shirts upcycle projects. Learn about the fabric, the tension, the stitches, and other insightful fine-tuning secrets.
Find all links and projects from this episode on the website:
https://www.ecofashionsewing.com/about-upcycling/sewing-machine-settings-for-tshirts/
Donât you love a good T-shirt fabric? It stretches slightly and hugs the body, and itâs SO comfortable. Or you can drape and create a unique tunic top. There is SO much potential in a good old T-shirtâŠ
In the previous EP 13 we talked about different ideas how you can rejuvenate T-shirts you no longer wear.
Now, itâs time to demystify the sewing part. In this episode you are going to learn the important that will get you started upcycling T-shirts TODAY. In particular:
How the fabric behaves and what to do,The machine settings, tension and other fine-tuning tricksThe different stitches for your projects, and all other essentials that you need to know so you donât miss on this wonderful material, easily available and affordable. -
Episodes manquant?
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Discover how to recycle clothes just with basic machine skills (or more advanced - your choice!). Use the unique upcycling methods from this episode on the podcast to invent your own simple ways to refashion clothes you LOVE!
Check all links, projects and downloads from this episode at this link: https://www.ecofashionsewing.com/about-upcycling/simple-ways-to-refashion-clothes/
If you love the conversation, please consider writing a review and rating the show.
This will help to get the word out to others who want to make change by buying second hand or refashioning clothes they already have.
Your actions will help me reaching out more people and helping them learn the ins and outs of refashioning, thus we all save valuable textiles and reduce the enormous waste we face today! One. Project. At. A. Time.
Go to the show page here and click âListen on Apple Podcastsâ. In iTunes then select the âRatings and Reviewsâ tab click 5 stars to rate and select âWrite a Reviewâ. Make sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
If you havenât done so yet, subscribe to the podcast. It will secure you never miss out, including the free downloads which Iâm adding to some of the episodes. Subscribe here.
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Rejuvenate your old T-shirts! Make them flatter your body in a new way while showing your sewing creativity to the world. Some inspiring examples how plus some good books on knits and T-s.
Find all links, projects and video of this episode on the website:
https://www.ecofashionsewing.com/about-upcycling/how-to-recycle-old-t-shirts-into-new/
Soft, comfortable and most probably cotton â old T-shirts are the hidden treasure in your wardrobe!
Especially the old favourites of yours. Once loved means ton of potential to be loved once again!
Some Highlights Inside This Episode:[2:30] Some essential resources to help you start refashioning. Quick overview what is included in this episode.
[4:35] Why you should rework your old T-shirts.
[6:15] Easy care tips to make T-shirts last longer.
[8:15] Questions to consider and two initial direction or strategies when thinking how to recycle old T-shirts into new.
[10:40] Tips on how to strengthen the material if youâre adding embellishment or similar.
[11:10] Other ways and ideas, including example of the distinctive applique that Alabama Studio use to create their unique artwear.
[12:40] Few other ideas for how to change the surface of the material while keeping the garment more or less intact.
[15:55] Some examples of quick projects that change the look of a T-shirt with materials at hand.
[17:30] Two more books on how to recycle old T-shirts into new styles and how to use them when over 40.
[18:50] Three examples of more creative upcycling approach that suit better mature body types. Plus, some insights about the creative process.
[23:10] A couple of books that offer great coverage of the essentials around working with knitted fabrics in general (plus my tip for vintage books).
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Find all links, projects and now also a video of this episode on the website:
https://www.ecofashionsewing.com/about-upcycling/ways-to-refashion-clothes-with-one-new-from-two-old-technique/
It's exciting to dive deeper into the ways to refashion clothes with the 'One New From Two Old' technique. It's one of my favourite!
Although often too simple at a glance, this upcycling technique is a clever method to make old clothes work for you once again.
The 'One New From Two Old' technique, as I called it, has potential to deliver amazing results... when you do it right. Hence, my top tips at the end of the episode.
Furthermore, you'll enjoy (hopefully;) different example refashions while I'm explaining how to get creative easier following the technique.
In the video you'll see me wearing an upcycle project I can't get enough of (more photos of me wearing it on the website)! It is a great example how mixing two mainstream and boring on its own items have hidden potential to turn an absolutely amazing new combo!
In a nutshell, method simple to apply, promising eye catching results, and resulting in completely unique you potentially adore for years to come.
Well, all that while challenging your creativity, of course. But isn't that the most fun?
Check some action steps you could do now at the end of the article on the website.
Mariana x
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All links mentioned in this episode are on the website: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/how-to-assess-quality-of-a-garment/
The idea of the Quality Miniseries, as so many other insightful pieces of valuable content were created, actually came from you, my audience and workshop students. It was the question âHow to assess quality of a garmentâ that inspired this episode.
The last Part 3 of the Quality Miniseries is now also available as a video. It focuses on how to assess quality of a garment regardless where you get it - in a thrift store, second hand sale, a swap party or elsewhere.
In particular we talk about:
Is it about the brand, is it the fabric or what else tells you âgood qualityâWhen you need to consider taking it regardless of the qualityWhat I avoid, again regardless of the quality, that will give some food for thought for when you buy or acquire second hand, to wear âas isâ or refashion.Furthermore, if you like the idea to rework some of your finds, then check out the other episodes from the Miniseries on Quality:
Part 1 talks you through the sewing standards that can elevate an upcycle project. It explains in details what to keep an eye on when sewing. Easy to apply, the 10 Sewing Tips and Tricks sets you up for great results.Part 2 explains what makes the overall look of a garment perceived as high quality. Regardless of colour or style, there are certain things to look for. It is all covered in the Top 10 Design Tips here. -
All links and projects mentioned in this episode are at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/how-to-make-quality-refashions
If you strive to make quality DIY clothes here youâll find the secrets behind making quality refashions. This Quality Miniseries on the podcast explains how to get your DIY projects to the next level.
Taken from the industry the 3-Part Quality Miniseries walks you through the main quality areas adapted from refashion point of view. It includes quality tips from sewing perspective, quality tips related to the overall look and design, and some secrets of how to spot good quality pieces when sourcing second hand clothing material.
In particular:
Part 1 (previous episode, EP #9) unveils the sewing standards that can elevate your upcycle project. It walk you through the details on what to keep an eye on when sewing. Easy to apply, the 10 Sewing Tips and Tricks sets you up for great results.Part 2 (the current episode, EP #10) explains what makes the overall look of a garment perceived as high quality. Regardless of colour or style there are certain things to look for. It is all covered in the Top 10 Design Tips in the current episode.Part 3 is going to show you how to spot quality in second hand clothing. You might already know, price nowadays is not clear indicator for quality. However, there are particular signs that can help identify good quality treasures. It is all revealed in the last part of the Quality Miniseries. -
All links and project mentioned in this episode youâll find at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/prevent-clothing-projects-from-looking-tacky/
There are different ways to prevent DIY clothing projects from looking tacky. This 3-Part Quality Miniseries on the podcast explains how to get those refashions to the next level.
If you care about the quality of your makes the Quality Miniseries is just the right thing for YOU.
Here youâll learn the secrets that separate bad made homemade projects from a beautifully executed handmade works. All these handpicked throughout Mariana's fashion studies, work in bridal and alteration industries and personal strive for high quality upcycled pieces.
As we do have SO much existing clothing (a lot of which gathering dust in our closets) there's great opportunity to recycle and enjoy the creative outlet at the same time.
However, if you donât care about achieving a certain quality level, why cut up a completely good item of clothing? This series contains the details that will take your skills and refashion projects to the next level.
So, the Quality Miniseries include:
The current Part 1 is focused on fashion standards related to how clothes should be sewn. Just list those, put them next to your sewing machine and develop as good sewing habits over time when do refashioning or clothing projects in general. The first step from preventing your handmade pieces looking 'homemade' in a bad way.In Part 2 youâll learn what makes the overall look of the garment to be seen as high in quality. And this is different than how to design a piece and make it appealing (which is always a subjective thing). Part 2 will walk you from quality point of view; regardless of colours, style and other design specifics a garment holds.Part 3 will teach you how to spot quality clothing in thrift stores. Because sometimes we need to source material to redo, right? But not every second hand garment is made of same quality. On top, the price nowadays, retail or second hand, is no indicator for good quality too. There are however specific ways to identify good quality treasures. It is all revealed in the last part of the Quality Miniseries.Want more? To stay tuned and don't miss the insider's secrets from a full-time fashion upcycler, sign up on EcoFashionSewing.com. Do that and get the best freebie on how to refashion for yourself to get you started in the meantime.
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All links, projects and downloadable files mentioned in this episode youâll find at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/how-to-refashion-clothes/
Are you tired from looking for the perfect idea and not finding something that would really work for you? Well, it is time to start right. From what you already have at hand and want to rework.
The 3-Pile System is a bit different approach to finding your upcycle project, as opposed to suggesting specific project ideas.
And the good part is that you can apply it to your wardrobe or clothing stash that youâve collected and kept over the years because you know... these treasure finds have lots of potential.
In the last Part 3 of the Upcycling Beginnerâs Miniseries, you'll learn about my 3-Pile System and in particular:
Why the 3-Pile System always works and I keep using it every single time when I want to refashion clothes from my wardrobe or stash.What goes into each of the three piles and how to utilise the material at hand.How to download the PDF promised at the end of this series, The Upcycling Beginner's Starter Kit: Create your own designer clothing from vintage and unloved garments. -
All links mentioned in this episode are posted at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/design-hacks/clothes-upcycling-for-beginners/
Alterations Like A Pro Course: https://ecofashionsewingschool.com/p/alterations-like-a-pro
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In this episode of the Art Of Refashioning podcast we talk about all that. In particular:.
- We discuss the top questions to consider before starting on a project. Answering those will help you understand what you want to make and actually enjoy wearing after that..
- Youâll get 5 top tips to help you stay focused on the important things when deciding on a project. Thereâs a lot to consider, so these are essential when it comes to clothes upcycling for beginners.
If you love sewing and want to tackle clothing, then youâll love the show. Send me your question or what is your biggest challenge, Iâd love to untangle it for you while you enjoy sewing and creating unique beautiful clothing yourself.
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All links and project mentioned in this episode youâll find at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/upcycled-clothing-ideas/
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Are you still looking for different DIY upcycled clothing ideas every single time when you want to recycled old clothes into something new? I remember the long hours, the lack of finding something that I really like, and the exhaustion without having to find what I actually want to make...
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Now, imagine to have a designing tool that will save you all this! Imagine that the ideas are already there... and you have more time for the fun, to create.
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Todayâs podcast episode walks you through something organised that you can apply every time you want to make a project and inspire with upcycled clothing ideas:
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What is the designing tool and how I use it to quickly figure out what to do with an unloved item of clothingLearn about the two main strategies and some of the most popular upcycling techniques, plus examples from upcycle projects that Iâve done, including from my upcycled âUpside-Downâ collection.Subscribe to the website and stay tuned for the downloadable PDF coming up with the final Third Part of the Upcycling Beginnerâs Miniseries. It will have all the steps to get you started, including photos of inspiring projects and links to tutorials. -
All links and project mentioned in this episode youâll find at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/how-to-start-upcycling-clothes/
Where and how to start upcycling clothes is a question Iâve been asked the most since I started talking on presentations and holding hands-on-workshops several years ago, as well as it is one of the most important for my online audience on the website and on social.
Over the years I knew there should be a helpful way applicable in more general terms; without me asking series of questions in order to give my best possible advice. I knew there should be something applicable regardless individual skills and level of experience.
No general system is perfect, but if itâs either this or no guidance at all, then having something tangible would be certainly something of interest (well, thatâs me anyway).
Fast forwarding some years, Iâm now happy that there is something that could be of help. Something useful for most regardless where exactly you are at the moment in your upcycling journey.
Below is a snapshot of what to expect in the 3-part miniseries for upcycling beginners we are going to talk about during the next 3 weeks on the podcast:
In today's episode, Part 1, we'll talk about what's the easiest to begin. Youâll learn about my 3-step successful formula to start upcycling clothesPart 2 will cover some main strategies to upcycle old clothes into new, with most used upcycling techniques plus examples. An episode with real projects, tutorials and inspiration :)And finally, in Part 3 youâll discover my 3-pile system that will help you find your first (or next) upcycled project from what you already have at home. This is the savviest and truly satisfying option that I simply love! Thereâs nothing better than to be using the cast-offs you had for years AND to feel proud at the end of what you created.As a bonus, at the end of the series there will be a downloadable PDF consisting of all critical information, links and examples. It takes time to put it together, but Iâd love you to have this helping tool. Remember, the more we are the more good textiles and clothing saved from being wasted :)
Subscribe on the website, EcoFashionSewing.com to ensure you don't miss out the Upcycling Beginnerâs Starter Kit.
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All links mentioned in this episode you'll find at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/procrastination-when-sewing/
This episode lterations Like A Pro Course: https://ecofashionsewingschool.com/p/alterations-like-a-pro
This episode reveals how procrastination when sewing looks like when refashioning old clothing into new. Although procrastination is quite common for sewers, here youâll learn the specifics and see what are the situations for those who want to refashion.
When you love sewing and care about the planet, refashioning should be on your list if you want to make a difference. But then, once onto it, you get worried about ruining a completely good item of clothing...
In this episode of The Art Of Refashioning fashion upcycler Mariana Kirova will help you to identify the negative feelings and the different situations related to procrastination when refashioning.
In particular youâll discover:
- What is procrastination and how you might be feeling or what your thoughts are when itâs there (the chances you might not recognising it at first are high, so a must to hear)
- How procrastination when sewing looks like when comes to refashioning. What are the specific examples, from real makers and sewers, how they feel and what they think.
- To get you moving forward, youâll get first hand insights revealed in the 10 tips on what could be done to try and free up your attitude in the process.
See detailed description and all links mentioned in this episode at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/about-upcycling/procrastination-when-sewing/
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All links mentioned in this episode are at: www.EcoFashionSewing.com/design-hacks/myths-about-creativity/, including full description of the episode.
In this episode we talk about creativity. In particular:
We unravel the top three myths about creativity and end up the misconception that youâre not creative (which so many of us struggle with).Find my best three tips how to build up your refashioning creativity despite you might still be thinking âIâm not creativeâ.If you love sewing and want to tackle clothing, then youâll love the show. Send me your question or what is your biggest challenge related to refashioning; or simply start listening and go from there. - Mariana, fashion upcycler of EcoFashionSewing.com
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Very often, the biggest hurdle for people who want to rework existing clothing is âWhat to make?â, âHow to come up with refashioning ideas?â
So, in this episode youâll learn what are my top 3 (and free) resources that helps me developing refashioning idea for a project. In particular youâll discover:
My top three free resources where to gather inspiration, online and in the physical worldHow to look for the right ideas. Here I give you my five best tips that will speed you up and help finding what would realistically work for YOUA list containing clothes upcycling and sewing booksHere are some highlights inside this episode:01:10 â Why getting your hands on some free resources is important in order to raise refashioning ideas of your own.
02:05 â Free Resource #1: Pinterest. What it is and how to search for ideas. What key words to use, other Pinterest options.
09:12 â Free Resource #2: Etsy. What is Etsy and how to use key words to search for recycled design ideas, upcycled clothing and creators.
15:00 â Free Resource #3: Sewing and upcycling books in local libraries. Why I find libraries are great resource.
20:05 â My 5 Tips on how to look for YOUR idea to skip feeling overwhelmed and being stuck.
21:30 â Tip #1: Check your wardrobe what you like and usually wear, because your favourite items are great inspiration and starting point.
22:25 â Tip #2: Check whatâs missing from your wardrobe and you would love to have.
23:26 â Tip #3: When you see a redesign idea that you like, try to figure out why you like it.
26:06 â Tip #4: Ignore colours, prints and patters when you look at a design.
28:20 â Tip #5: Keep in mind that you can customise any inspirational idea or designs. mentioned in this episode:List of Refashioning Books
Other podcast episodes mentioned in this episode:Ep. #1: What Is Refashioning & Why You Should Consider It
Links mentioned in this episode:On sale now: My new online course âAlterations Like A ProâLink to my Eco Fashion Sewing Pinterest account (all boards)
Projects mentioned in this episode:Leather jacket refashion
Magazines mentioned in this episode:Altered Couture US magazineBelle Armoire US magazine
Links to some of my favourite Etsy artists:Jam FashionTailortrashBroken Ghost ClothingThe Topian DensmArtvilleFleurs BohemeNaturally Bohemian
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If you love sewing and clothing, and care about the environment, well... then you'll like to hang out with Mariana from the get-go!
Only 15 to 20% of what you donate in your local charity shop (or op-shop, as we call them Down Under) is purchased back, the rest is downgraded, shipped or goes to landfill. In this very first episode we start with concepts and terminology, and yet get practical right after that, because it is all about you having fun and create!
In todayâs episode we talk about:
Terminology - refashioning, difference between recycling and upcycling, modern terms in the fashion industry and the expanding DIY sewing world and their meaning.Why you should be considering refashioning (as a sewing creative and caring for good material)3 simple tips how you could start today. Very practical and down to earth. Because nothing is more powerful than the simplest actions you take one step at a time.As a fashion graduate and sewing professional with several years bridal and alteration experience, Mariana Kirova, turned fashion upcycler herself, is passionate to help you feel the deep satisfaction of creating, making and wearing beautiful unique pieces of your own.At the end, the more people who can sew start upcycling clothing already in circulation - the less valuable textiles will end up on the landfill, right?Inside episode #1:00:10 â Outline what is this first episode about
01:00 â Why I am dealing with âoldâ clothes on the first place ;)
02:35 â How I followed my passion for sewing clothing and began to upcycle clothing
04:56 â What are the reasons why Iâm starting the Art of Refashioning podcast
06:15 â What is refashioning and what other terms are used around it
07:14 â What is the difference between recycling and upcycling
08:29 â What means to recycle clothing and textiles
11:21 â What is sustainable fashion
13:12 â More about the term Zero Waste
14:54 â The topic of taking something old to make new, how it evolves today
15:36 â The reasons why you should consider refashioning, how could benefit you on different levels
21:17 â 3 Simple tips how you can start refashioning today
24:58 â What if you donât have ideas how to rework something
25:40 â My example of how much time could take to develop a creative design
28:25 â Wrapping up the first episode, my question to you this time
Links mentioned in this episode:
How To Fix Common Sewing Machine ProblemsSafety Sewing Rules: Room, Equipment, People39 Terms & Definitions Behind DIY Sewing And Sustainable FashionBooks mentioned in this episode:
Timo Rissanen, Holly McQuillan. Zero Waste Fashion Design. London, New York: Bloomsbury, Fairchild Books, 2016.
