Make It Do

favorite mantra from the depression era

I learned repurposing before I knew anything about recycling.  Really, repurposing was recycling…until sometime in the 90’s.  Repurposing allows for creativity, the ability to see past what something was intended to accomplish.  That is likely the appeal for me…and the fact that most of the time you get items for free or dirt-cheap before you repurpose them…which I love. 

My brother worked on the trade floor of BAC for a few years and constantly complained about how he ripped the elbows of his shirts just a short time after purchasing them.  When BAC hired me on I noticed the men on my floor making the same complaint.  They couldn’t donate a torn shirt so most of the time the guys were just throwing them out.  One day it dawned on me; they’re tossing perfectly good cotton. Not just cotton but Brooks Brothers, Nautica, Ralph Lauren cotton; these guys know how to shop.  My brother asked if they would collect torn shirts for me and they were happy to do so.

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My favorite item to come out of the shirts is my Trade Floor Wine Bags* (top left).  I think they have so much character and sort of represent their intended purpose within their newfound one. I made a daddy/daughter dress for my niece out of one of my brother’s shirts, and made some yo-yo’s out of the scraps.  I'm sure there is more to come but thought I would share these for now.

Is there something you’re constantly tossing that could perhaps be something new?  



*Happy to bring wine bags to local customers along with groceries, etc.

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