Are you looking for ways to save money on clothes that also reduce your environmental impact? Upcycling pieces you already own is a great place to start. Instead of throwing out clothes that no longer fit or are out of style, you can give them new life by repurposing them into something new and unique. With a few simple techniques, it’s possible to revamp your existing pieces in a way that benefits your wallet, your closet, and the planet. Here are some of our favorite ways to upcycle clothes:
Dye Them
Whether your pieces are faded or you simply don’t feel your best in a particular color, dying your clothes is an easy way to give them new life that doesn’t require any particular skill. Just choose a color you like, ideally, one that’s darker than your piece’s original color, and follow the directions on the box.
Turn Jeans Into Shorts
You can upcycle an old pair of jeans by turning them into a new pair of shorts—all you need is some scissors and a bit of creativity. Simply cut the jeans to your desired length, and add some fun details like lace trim or patches. We recommend cutting off less than you think you need to start. You can always cut more, but you can’t add the fabric back once it’s gone.
Make Pillows & Blankets
One of the best ways to upcycle old sweaters is by making them into cozy blankets or pillows. Cut your sweater into two squares or rectangles, sew them together, and stuff them with filling to create a new pillow for your space. If you have several sweaters you no longer wear, you can sew them together for a fun patchwork quilt.