We'd never use it all...
Last week we talked about starting from an idea of where you might wear your upcycled jewelry (our August project) as a way of getting started. Imagining the way you’ll use something, is one great way to know that you will use it.
Though while yes, sometimes being a conscious crafter is about knowing why you’re making something, it may also not be quite as fun to be so purpose-driven. As artisans, we sometimes just yearn to create. Period. To make anything at all, whatever the reason.
Peo Vee isn’t about being hard and fast on the rules of how to be a conscious crafter. But rather supporting one another in considering more deeply how we fulfill our need to create, while also using what’s out there already.
This last week someone commented on a post we made about upcycling denim and said, “Everyone is on the wagon. You can't find denim or pallets anymore.” To which another use replied, “There is so much out there....we'd never use all of it.” Thanks Olga if you’re reading this! Olga is right. We’ve made too much already. The supplies exist, it’s how we use them that comes next.
This week we encourage you to remember what Olga said as you turn to your projects, looking at waste as a set of fresh jewelry supplies, all yours for the taking.
Project inspiration
Pool Party Tassel Earrings Upcycled from Inflatable Floaties
These bold, playful earrings by Crave by CRV, are made from dilapidated pool floaties and were born from a desire to turn discarded materials into something unique and wearable. What started as a quest to craft with leather, sourced from thrift store finds, quickly evolved into a mission to upcycle and repurpose. Bothered by her own consumption habits, Carli began transforming old kiddie pools into colorful, one-of-a-kind pieces. These earrings are not just a statement of style but also of sustainability, reflecting her belief that the world already has enough cool stuff without creating more waste.
Wearable LPs: Upcycled Record Earrings
These vibrant earrings by DanaJewelry are crafted from an old vinyl record saved from the landfill. Heads up vinyl lovers, sustainable fashion fans, art enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a bold, one-of-a-kind handmade accessory.
Babybel but make them earrings
Artist LaKenzie Powell, known as @_lakenzo on both Instagram and TikTok, is known for making playful treasures from found objects and these earrings just had to make our inspiration list for our Upcycled Jewelry project. What better example of seeing the waste around you as supplies for the taking?
Caught our 👀
👖A designer thrift store discovery.
🪴Instant-Lunch clay pot transformation.
📦How to make a cardboard dress form.
🥫Can cutting basics, how to prep aluminum cans for projects.
New in the blog:
An Open Letter on Regifting and Wrapping Your Own Gifts
by Gabriela Chagas
This week, Gabrieala reflects on the true value of gift-giving, emphasizing that kindness and thoughtfulness outweigh the need for new, store-bought items, and sharing her newfound appreciation for hand-me-downs and sustainable gifting, embracing the charm of reusing wrapping materials.
Salvaged Yarn Diaries
by Anna Porto
After inheriting her late mother-in-law Martha's yarn, crochet hooks, and unfinished projects, Anna reflects on Martha's intricate crochet work and the memories tied to it.
In this together,
- Team Peo Vee
