Upcycling project tackles 50 tonnes of textile waste

A woman who attended a workshop to learn how to upcycle her clothes said she had been inspired to help tackle textile waste.

Jessie James, 33, took part in a community project, led by Stroud-based Emergence Restock, to find out how to restyle old items from her wardrobe.

The initiative focuses on keeping textiles out of landfill in partnership with local charity shops, fashion brands and businesses.

"It's kind of opened my mind to different things - I worry about where my used clothes go, so I'm hoping other people will as well," said James.

James, who is from Stroud, said it had been of great benefit to be taught how to rework an old jumper.

"Now it's a piece that I would wear again, and it won't be going to landfill," he said.

"I never would have thought to do that before, so there are lots of things to think about for the future."

Emergence Restock takes unsold items that might otherwise end up as waste and reintroduces them into the market through collaborations with local businesses.

A crowdfunder, which ends on Monday, has received textile donations and pledges towards a target of £17,600 to provide employment and training.

A repair café is hosted every month to teach people the skills to resurrect old clothes and turn them into something new.

Founder and creative director, Shalize Nicholas, 37, said the response to her work had been very encouraging.

"We did a workshop at the end of January, and people were really interested to know what it is that we're doing and the impact we're having," she said.

Nicholas, who lives in Stroud, said her aim was to divert 50 tonnes of textiles from landfill, engage 150 members of the community through six upcycling workshops and launch an online marketplace to sell reworked garments and support local brands.

"There are people of all ages who want to be part of crafting or find it really cathartic and therapeutic to be in a room together, sewing and being creative.

"I was touched because I didn't realise how far the reach had gone. I'm looking now at our mission and at what else we could be doing," she added.

Stella Parkes, former mayor and town councillor of Stroud, said the town's history was "deeply woven into Britain's textile story".

"Today, however, the global fashion system tells a very different story; one of waste and environmental harm," she said.

"That's why Emergence Restock is so important for Stroud.

"It's about reclaiming our textile legacy for the 21st century - this is the sort of circular, sustainable approach our planet needs, and it's rooted right here in our town."

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