UP CYCLING WASTE FABRICS: TRANSFORMING DISCARDED MATERIALS INTO SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS

Abstract

Background: Environmental damage is caused around the world by the textile and fashion sectors, mainly because of their enormous output and waste. Using discarded materials to make usable items helps save the environment and is a creative method. This article looks at the creative, environmental, and monetary potential of design by upcycling, using the bark of century-old trees in Bagh-e-Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan, for inspiration.

Objectives: The study intended to determine

1. Produce interior decor items out of old textiles by basing them on the patterns found in barks.
2. Look at how up cycling materials can be creative and functional.
3. Check if the promised environmental, visual, and economic benefits are present in what is built.

Methods: A technique called practice-based research was applied. Bark patterns were made on recycled textiles using embroidery, appliqué, layering, heat, and beads. Materials were obtained from discarded factory textiles and used garments sold in thrift shops. Final projects created included wall art, blinds, and ways to section off areas. The cost-effectiveness of the project and how much potential the market has were looked into as well.

Results: It was possible to design decor items for the home that were not only nice to look at but also strong in environmental protection. Products on the menu were priced fairly (PKR 10,000–14,000), but they looked high-class. Innovation in design could be seen in having different functions connect and using usual material with unusual ways.

Conclusions: Taking waste materials and turning them into something new allows artists to be creative and save the environment. It helps to conserve the environment, fits well with circular economy rules, and supports all groups being involved in the economy. It is revealed that up cycling can be used to design items for decorating areas that encourage fresh design ideas.