If you’ve got some old, worn jeans sitting in your dresser that you never wear why not revamp them and make them into something stylish again?
If you register for the Arnold Branch of the Jefferson County Library’s Upcycle Challenge, you not only will learn how to turn that unwanted clothing item into something useful, but you also will compete for fun prizes. The Upcycle Challenge Kickoff event is set for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, at the library, 1701 Missouri State Road.
This is the library’s first-ever upcycling event.
Angela Warnick, library associate and program coordinator, is looking forward to seeing the entries and helping participants envision a project and carry it through to completion.
At the kickoff event, competitors, who must be 16 and older, will receive project guidelines and upcycling inspiration. Those who wish to enter the challenge must attend.
The event is focused on clothing, and participants may bring an item they’d like to upcycle or choose to upcycle a piece from a selection of thrifted materials available at the challenge kickoff, Warnick said.
“The kickoff event’s purpose is, of course, for the participants to choose an item from our selection if they wish. It’s also a time I will be sharing planning skills, inspiration, how-to hints and to answer any questions they may have,” she said.
If participants choose to use their own article of clothing instead of an item from the library’s selection, they must provide a photo of the item in its original form. They can then work on their projects at home with their own tools and materials. If you do not have a sewing kit or machine, the library has options for you.
“We do want people to know that the Jefferson County Library has sewing machines available for checkout if you don’t own one,” Warnick said. “Also, our DIY Depot will be open from 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, to use our equipment. We generally open it once a month. However, for this event, we could add some extra time during September if there is a need.”
Program participants will have a month to transform their item before library visitors vote for their favorite upcycler. Creations will be on display for public voting from early October through early November. Those who entered the challenge must attend the Show and Tell at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, for the award presentations. There will be first, second and honorable mention winners. The prizes will be gift cards, although dollar amounts have not yet been determined.
“People should participate for many reasons,” Warnick said. “The creation process is rewarding. Save money by creating something you will use instead of having an item gather dust hanging in the closet.”
This event is not only an excuse to rework a clothing item you no longer like, but also it keeps that item from ending up in a landfill. Upcycling is an environmentally friendly alternative to throwing something in the trash and a great way to renew and reuse things.
To learn more about the Arnold Branch of the Jefferson County Library and check out other events that are offered, visit jeffcolib.org or call 636-296-2204.