Upcycling projects

Turning deadstock into the desirable.

What are we going to do with all the stuff that has already been made; that we cannot sell, or move on? 

Inspired by natural cycles, the circular economy aims to close the loop of industrial material flows by keeping products and materials in use at their highest possible value for as long as possible, minimising waste generation and reducing the footprint on Mother Earth. Currently, in Aotearoa, New Zealand, the vast majority of textiles collected for ‘recycling’ are processed into insulation or board, which is downcycling.

Upcycling provides us with an opportunity to create products from what is otherwise collecting dust or end-of-life garments that have potential, just not in their current form. Our intent is to have ongoing collaborations between designers, design students (our next wave of design talent) and anyone wanting to be involved in the process. Projects will be open to all levels, with tasks ranging from unpicking seams and pattern cutting to sewing. 

With these projects, we can encourage people to think about what already exists, what is being done with this resource and who really benefits. Projects will be a combination of one-off pieces and collections, depending on our collaborator.

For our first upcycling project, we have partnered with Richie Boyens of Ratbags, a concept store supporting locally crafted and made clothing, jewels and headwear based in Tāmaki Makaurau. For this project, we will be upcycling denim, and we need a few people who are handy with a quick unpick (or we can teach you) to unpick seams.

If you can make it for Sunday, 16 March, 10 am - 2 pm, we would love to have you be a part of this project! Choose to stay for a half or full session. To register your attendance, email us at hello@commonequal.com