This past May 31st and June 1st I was kindly invited by Therapy Berlin to co-host a series of Upcycling Workshops at the Denim Première Vision trade fair in Berlin's Arena. It is a part of the larger Première Vision events, which are among the most important in the global fashion and textile industry, catering to professionals in fashion and textiles seeing inspiration, innovation, networking, and information on the latest trends and materials.
Along with industry denim suppliers from all over the world presenting their products and services, there was a special highlight on sustainable denim design: they invited independent designers who upcycle denim. It was beautiful and interesting to see these worlds come together, offering a full circle view on how versatile denim can be in the design world.
The fair ran for two days and was packed with workshops and panel talks on sustainability and design. We lead 3 upcycling workshops:
1. Radical Disruption – Thinking Differently About Our Clothes
On Wednesday morning, we asked participants to bring items from their closets to explore how these could be worn in new ways or altered to serve different purposes. They would have to figure out alternative uses without sewing, and then choose a re-design to modify them with sewing and upcycling skills we taught.
2. T-Shirts Into Tote Bags
In the afternoon, we focused on turning old t-shirts into tote bags. This workshop was designed for everyone, regardless of their sewing skills. The idea was simple but powerful: transforming something as everyday as a t-shirt into something new and useful.
3. The Many Lives of a Men's Shirt
Thursday's workshop was all about the potential men's shirts have. We explored various ways to upcycle these into new pieces, offering both sewing and no-sew options for participants.
To close the 2 days of workshops, networking, and learning more about the denim industry, there was a really nice after party with a fashion show, djs, and sunset views to enjoy with the other amazing designers.
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