Fabric Hacking Fun at Sustainable Living Labs

Last Wednesday was the first time I gave a workshop at Sustainable Living Labs (SL2), but did you know that the idea of having an upcycling workshop was first brought up in March last year? It took so long for it to materialise because I had a few blips, including falling ill (HFMD and flu). Fortunately, it wasn't enough to stop it from happening - I managed to get there with all my workshop materials, sewing machine and all!

As you can see from the pictures, it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening. In the end it wasn't about getting a piece of haute couture out of an old t-shirt, but the creative process involved, and of course the companionship. We had a few guys who were keen to try out the sewing machines and hand sew, and THAT got me excited. SL2 even got the laser-cut machine to create stencils .... can we use it to make wooden buttons next time?

Join SL2 for more making and inspiration at www.facebook.com/sl2square.

Photos courtesy of Sustainable Living Labs (SL2)

I'm explaining applique

The men know how to use the sewing machine...

And, yes, they do know how to thread a needle!

Voodoo robot toy?

Ironing on her stencil cut out with the laser!

The laser machine - no need for scissors or craft knife! 

Before

During

After! I couldn't (and still can't) believe how creative he was!

Planning to applique this cat onto her t-shirt.

Final appliqued shirt!