Here’s an easy accessory project that only takes three materials and a few minutes. With Halloween coming up I thought it would be fun to show accessories that are good for everyday, but can also enhance this year’s Halloween costume.
Upcycling Expert - Annie Temmink
Annie completed her BA in sculpture and math from Davidson College in North Carolina, and received a Thomas J Watson Foundation Fellowship to travel independently for twelve months studying fashion and textiles. From Indonesia to Japan, India to Uganda and Tanzania, she worked with village women, dove through sprawling second-hand markets and explored fashion in the world’s biggest cities and smallest towns. The scope of her studies took her from preparing plants for organic dyes to exploring the factories that produce clothing for brand name stores.
Much of Annie’s inspiration comes from common or unwanted materials whose wide availability sparked her interest in recycling materials six years ago. Now she transforms repurposed clothing into sculpture for solo exhibitions and larger installations. Her work catches attention including that of trend forecasting companies in New York and private collectors on the east coast. Annie looks forward to blogging about her experiences and showing you how to create fabulous projects (clothing, jewelry and beyond) with materials from Goodwill.
Annie currently designs and makes clothing and accessories (and dances like-a-fool) in Charlottesville, Virginia. To learn more and to see Annie's projects visit: www.artemmink.com
Topics: headband necklace, upcycle, Goodwill, Halloween costumes, Annie Temmink
I saw several electrical spools on the street waiting for disposal a few weeks ago, so I picked one up thinking it might be good for something. Sure enough, here’s a simple tutorial for turning an electrical spool into an ottoman. This is great technique for small tables you find at Goodwill, too. Maybe they need refinishing or a bit of a facelift? A simple slipcover like this one can do just that.
Topics: upcycle, Goodwill, Upcycling, Annie Temmink
Now that summer is really here, the time has come to fill your kitchen with plants and herbs. Particularly with basil coming in, pesto pasta, and salads are a delicious summer treat that can be made so easily if you have a basil plant near by. You can pick up a few plants from your local nursery and repot them in a fun, summery planter to start your own kitchen herb garden.
Topics: herb garden, upcycle, Goodwill, Annie Temmink
When I saw these rubber animals and insects the other day at Goodwill, I couldn’t help but write this post. I know I’ve covered DIY button earrings, and this project is very similar, but bug and dinosaur earrings are so much fun for summer.
Topics: upcycle, Upcycling, Annie Temmink, DIY earrings, animal earrings
I have a favorite pair of shoes from Goodwill- they are simple canvas sneakers that I have completely worn out. Instead of buying new ones, however, I wanted to see if I could bring them back with a fresh coat of paint. It turns out you just need house paint, brushes, and a clear protectant to add function and style to the shoes you find at Goodwill.
Topics: upcycle, Upcycling, Annie Temmink, shoe revival, painting shoes
For this week’s post I thought it would be fun to put a spring twist on the traditional button-down shirt. The warm weather brings out brighter colors, so add a little neon to a plain button down from Goodwill and go enjoy the sunshine.
Topics: button down shirt revamp, upcycle, Upcycling, Annie Temmink
Dye projects are great for springtime because you can set them up outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. They’re also a great way to camouflage stains and imperfections on clothes, or transform basic solids into spring and summer-worthy prints. If you’ve ever found great pieces at Goodwill that have small bleach stains etc., this is the perfect way to give those pieces a unique, stylish overhaul.
Topics: upcycle, Annie Temmink, dye projects, clothes dye
My Friend Claire showed me this technique the other day and I thought it was a great one to share. In an hour or less, you can make bright spring earrings from small fabric scraps. You can match them to your outfit (a great idea for the wedding season), or use them for an added splash of neon. Make them for yourself or your friends – these can make great gifts!
Topics: button earrings, earrings, upcycle, Upcycling, Annie Temmink
Goodwill has so many great gifts for Mother’s Day. From jewlery, and clothing, to paintings and scarves. But, if you have a little extra time this week, why not use some of the great materials at Goodwill to make a scarf for your mom? Not only are they fun to make, but your mom will love the time and care you took.
Topics: upcycle, Mother's Day, Annie Temmink, mom, moms, scarves
As it starts to warm up, spring offers great opportunities to re-explore the outdoors. Camping and hiking are fun ways to spend time with your friends, and explore the beautiful rustic areas around you. Camping gear, however, can seem prohibitively expensive for some. Luckily, Goodwill’s got you covered. From tents and backpacks to water bottles and cookware, you can find most of your gear at Goodwill for next to nothing. Here are some tips and checklists for your next camping trip.
Topics: upcycle, camping, Annie Temmink, camping gear at Goodwill