Repurposing through Design

Creating a Coat Based off of Repurposed Materials

Mackenzie Smith

This fall, I was heavily influenced by the ongoing thrifting and upcycling movement that has become so prevalent in day-to-day fashion statements. As someone who is passionate about sewing and designing, I find it exciting to get new clothes from places that sell gently used items and then alter them into something new and my own. This semester, I worked with Ajani Wilson ‘24.5 to come up with designs to repurpose some of his clothing that he no longer wears. In this article I will discuss my sewing and design process to create a new garment for Ajani. 

After seeing the materials that Ajani provided, which was a mix of denim, corduroy, fleece lined jackets, and thick working materials, I thought it best to create a patchwork jacket that would be fitted for him. To begin the design process, I started by digitally sketching some small ideas that I then added to later in the process. I started by doing basic forms of the garment I wanted to make, and constantly erase and add new lines. For example, here is the preliminary sketch for this project: 

Next, I start to add more details and complex pieces to incorporate such as a hood, zippers, and pockets. 

Finally, I add some color and more detailed work, such as approximate places for patches to go on the garment. 

Some of my favorite ways to upcycle old clothing is to combine multiple different fabrics and put them together in some type of patchwork garment. This design is one that I am looking forward to creating and displaying in the spring.