What is upcycling? For those who are too embarrassed to ask, here is a basic introduction.
Upcycling is the magic that transforms things that would have been thrown away into something wonderful.
Clothes sleeping in the back of your closet, accessories you no longer use, those items could actually become treasures. Today I'd like to talk about a wonderful idea called "upcycling."
How is upcycling different from recycling?
Have you heard the word "upcycling" a lot recently? Many people may be familiar with recycling, but are a little unclear about upcycling.
Recycling is turning used items back into raw materials to create new products, like turning plastic bottles into fibers or waste paper into new paper.
On the other hand, upcycling is the process of taking something that was meant to be thrown away and transforming it into something of greater value.
For example, you can turn an old shirt into a stylish tote bag, or use parts from old accessories to make new earrings.
In other words, the idea behind upcycling is not to "throw away → return to raw materials → make something new," but to "throw away → use it as is → transform it into something even more beautiful."
Why is upcycling so popular now?
Growing interest in eco-friendly living
Recently, environmental awareness has been on the rise. The fashion industry in particular has been criticized as a symbol of "mass production, mass consumption, and mass waste." In this context, upcycling, which creates new value while preserving what we already have, is gaining attention.
The special feeling of a one-of-a-kind item
Upcycled items are basically one-of-a-kind, and the feeling of specialness of not having the same thing as someone else is very appealing.
Creative fun
These unique items are sure to get people asking, "How did you make that?" They're also perfect accents for your outfits and can be used as a way to express your individuality.
The wisdom of upcycling in African handmade items
In fact, the idea of upcycling has been deeply rooted in many parts of Africa for a long time. There is a culture of using limited resources carefully and using ingenuity to create beautiful things.
Wisdom of the Drying Zone: Functionality and Beauty
In the arid regions of Africa, clothing and everyday items are carefully designed to adapt to the harsh natural environment. They protect people from the strong sun while also pursuing beauty through the use of vibrant colors.
Basket bags made from sisal hemp
In Kenya and Tanzania, the production of basket bags using the fiber of a plant called sisal is popular. This technique is also applied to make colorful bags woven from discarded cloth and plastic bags. This is a perfect example of upcycling, combining traditional techniques with modern materials.
Upcycling starts with something close to you
Let's start with accessories
If you want to start upcycling, accessories are a great choice. By simply combining small parts, you can create earrings or necklaces with completely different looks.
- Make earrings by combining unused buttons
- Collect broken necklace beads and make a bracelet
- Tear an old scarf into strips and use them as string
Remaking bags and accessories
Once you get used to it, try making bags and accessories. Just by sewing a part of your favorite clothing onto a simple tote bag, you can transform it into an item that is full of originality.
The compatibility of organic cotton and upcycling
Choosing the right material is also an important point. Organic cotton is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, making it a material with less impact on the environment. It also feels good on the skin and has excellent dyeability, making it a popular upcycled material.
On the other hand, polyester can be hot in the summer, but it is also durable and colorfast. By choosing the right material for your needs, you can create items that you can use for a long time.
Combining fair trade and upcycling
Recently, there has been an increase in products that combine fair trade concepts with upcycling. By purchasing beautiful accessories and miscellaneous goods made by African artisans, you can also support the local economy.
Summary of the appeal of upcycling
Upcycling stimulates creativity, is environmentally friendly, and, above all, is fun. Each item has its own story, and every time you use it, you can remember its background. This special experience may be the greatest appeal of upcycling.
Start with small things. Take a fresh look at the items in your home that you don't use but can't bring yourself to throw away. You're sure to make some wonderful discoveries.
Representative Kaoru Tsuji
