ReWear Ballina Workshop: Upcycle denim into a one-of-a-kind tote bag

Join Ballina Shire Council and Rebecca Ryan from Bec’s Bespoke for a 2 hour workshop using denim clothing and offcuts to make an original, one-of-a-kind tote bag.

In this workshop, Rebecca will give you tips and ideas to create a tote bag using upcycled denim for the bag body, and various repurposed items for the lining and bag straps. You can supply your own denim pieces or choose from Rebecca’s vast collection of resources.

Perfect for beginner to intermediate sewers, this small-group workshop will give you the tools and know-how for creative and sustainable sewing.

What to Bring

• Any items of denim clothing or fabric: Any size pieces will work – damaged, ripped and stained pieces are welcome!

• Additional textiles: second-hand textiles such as sheets, pillowcases, doona covers, curtains, tablecloths etc to use to line the bag. Also, items to repurpose into straps like old belts, thick cord, men’s ties, karate belts …..

• A sewing machine: if you have one, otherwise they will be supplied.

• Sense of creativity and imagination!

Outcomes

• Your own practical tote bag to keep and use or gift.

• Practical sewing skills, including textile selection and placement, selecting and using interfacing, creating mitred corners, and top stitching for a professional finish.

• Tips on sourcing, selecting, and combining second-hand fabrics effectively.

About your facilitator

Rebecca Ryan is a Northern Rivers local and the creative force behind Bec's Bespoke (Facebook), a 16 year old handmade business that gives vintage and preloved materials a new life. Rebecca makes bags, accessories and homewares from vintage fabric, wool blankets, vintage sheets, tea towels …. anything really!

Rebecca also teaches sewing lessons with a focus on repurposing materials on hand to create practical and beautiful items.

To ensure participants receive close care and guidance from the workshop tutor throughout the event, the number of participants is strictly limited to 8. Contact justine.rowe@ballina.nsw.gov.au for any questions.

This project is proudly funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority.