Upcycle Files
Where things get weird
One of my favorite parts of owning a vintage store is that stumbling across a unique piece can spark an idea. A particularly nice set of shells, a beautiful chain, the perfect shape and finish on a cowboy boot, all inspire me to ask, “what if”… and thus, upcycling has become one of my favorite creative outlets.
Everywhere that I write this word, it is underlined as being spelled incorrectly so let’s quickly define it for clarity. Upcycling is the process of transforming old, discarded, or waste materials into new products of higher value, quality, or environmental benefit.
I personally put emphasis on the higher value part because it can become of unique value to me or someone who enjoys my brand of fun. But a lot of the value for me is getting to make something with my hands.
So I present my favorite recent projects from the past 6 months:
Generally Mardi Gras is the kick-off for my DIY-energy at the start of the year and remains an inspiration for the next 365 days! It’s such a good time to play and see what others have been doing to pass their winter days. In the end it’s all about having fun, but it does feel meaningful to have a place IRL to showcase a project.
I drew on this bustier using fabric markers instead of paint which was a total game-changer:
Anddd while on the topic of bustiers:
I would have never thought of this if I hadn’t come across some particularly cute fishing lures (maybe they are all this nice?) in a barn at a yard sale in rural Georgia.
Somehow I never made a dedicated post about this, but I designed a collection in collaboration with Community and this was one of my favorite pieces — a swishy midi dress made from a magical antique quilt-topper:
The dress below was a particular thrill because I got to create it for a client project, AND I had never done any type of applique before:
This generated a lot of conversation that was mostly positive but it did bring up a common reservation that some people have about this type of DIY:
And to this I say, let me put your minds at ease: I have been to the bins, I have seen the waste and the moth-eaten clothing and the water damage on countless once-beautiful pieces. If you find something and you think that you can do something to make it more special or useful for you or someone else, go for it! There are way too many things already and not all of them can be rescued by “archivists”, so relax!
I’ve been painting cowboy boots for years, but this was my first time trying anything like the shell tie.
The boots were a commission and the necklace was something I realized probably only I would wear but those are often my favorite pieces :)
I’ve enjoyed how fluid my creative process has been so far this year and am looking forward to seeing what sparks new concepts next.
Transparently I am really struggling at the moment, but art always brings me solace. I’m sending love + beauty to anyone else having a hard time. You’re not alone <3
With love, M
eeep those cowboy boots are divine!! love love your style and creativity 🧚🏽♀️