Combating Clothing Waste with Upcycling Projects was a Unique Way to Close Out the School Year. Written by NVHS CAP Instructor Lori Powell.
It was obvious from early on in the spring quarter that the New Vista High School Community Adventure Program (CAP) students were a creative bunch. Creativity was expressed throughout the class in many ways, including through journal artwork, unique solutions to team-building challenges, singing and dancing during our farm outing, and constructing unique shelters with natural materials on our overnight trip. When we brainstormed action project ideas that would allow student talents to shine, upcycling clothing (that may have been destined for a landfill) rose to the top of the list.
Upcycling is the process of taking things that might otherwise be discarded and turning them into something unique and valuable. Students were concerned about the environmental problems created by fast fashion, so they decided to use their creativity to upcycle unwanted clothes into unique items they would be excited to use.
While students had plenty of upcycling project ideas, our class initially lacked some necessary tools, materials, and expertise to bring the ideas to fruition. We were fortunate that Staci with Fashion REBELution, a local expert in upcycling, was available to bring not only her expertise but also a sewing machine and plenty of supplies to our class to support students in choosing workable projects and in learning new upcycling skills. We also sourced materials from our own closets and found additional items at Art Parts, a store dedicated to creative reuse. Students chose to transform items like pants, shirts, bags, and aprons, and even worked with unique items like archery gloves and key chains.
Each upcycled project provided a unique hands-on opportunity for students to dedicate themselves to creating something at the end of the school year that was significantly different than much of their other school work. Students found themselves talking with friends and family about their projects, which enabled their dedication to this environmental issue to influence others outside the classroom. Photos of their creations were shared on social media as well, allowing people outside the students’ immediate circle of influence to be inspired by their creativity and dedication. Many students also plan to continue using newly acquired skills to upcycle more clothing in the future. In addition to creating unique items that they were excited to use, this group’s efforts helped reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainable practices.
A big thanks to the funders and supporters that make the CAP Class possible, including: Enterprise Holdings Foundation, Great Outdoors Colorado, Patagonia, Thorne Nature Experience, Tony Grampsas Youth Services Program and the Xcel Energy Foundation.
If you, too, are passionate about supporting students in making change in their communities, please consider making a donation or becoming a monthly donor! You’ll help invest in our students, programs, and long-term sustainability and success!
