Let's dive into the wonderful world of mending your own clothes. May is often referred to as ‘Me Made May’ or ‘Me Mend May’ where makers either make, upcycle, repurpose, or mend their clothes. This is a practice that supports sustainability and creativity.
While I'll be the first to admit I am terrible at sewing my own clothes, I love upcycling and repurposing my garments with visible mending and hand embroidery. Earlier this year I shared about things you should know before mending a garment and last year I also shared a tutorial on how to mend your sweater with the button hole stitch. Plus, you've probably seen countless photos of me on my Instagram or in real life with my embroidered clothes. My goal is to have an entirely embroidered wardrobe one day... but let's not get off track.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Why bother with sewing up a small hole, covering a stain, or stitching on something I don't wear that often when I can just buy it new?"
Well, let me tell you why mending clothes is a skill worth cultivating.
The Environment
We live in a world where fast fashion is all the rage. Clothing is discarded more often than yesterday's leftovers. (I say this as someone who is the worst at eating their leftovers!) But here's the thing: every time we throw away a piece of clothing, we contribute to the growing pile of waste in our landfills. By mending our clothes instead of tossing them aside, we're reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainability. It's a small act, but it adds up when we all do our part.
Save Money
On the practical side of things, mending your own clothes can save you some serious money. With finances getting tighter and cost of things getting more expensive, it’s important to help stretch your money a litter further. Instead of shelling out your hard-earned money on a brand new pair of jeans or a fancy blouse, you can extend the life of your beloved garments by repairing, upcycling, or embellishing them. A simple mend, a patch, an embroidered accent can all work wonders and keep your wardrobe intact for much longer. It's like giving your clothes a second chance to shine and saving some bucks in the process. Who doesn't love that?
Creative Outlet
Mending your clothing isn't just about being frugal and eco-friendly; it's also about creativity. Imagine transforming a dull pair of pants into a trendy masterpiece with just a few stitches and a dash of imagination. You can personalize your clothes, add unique touches, and express your individuality. It's a chance to showcase your style and stand out from the crowd. Plus, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment when you wear something you've repaired, upcycled, or embellished with your own two hands. It's like wearing a badge of creativity.
Emotional Attachments
Let's not forget the sentimental value of our clothes. We all have that favorite sweater or that lucky pair of socks that hold special memories. Maybe it's the shirt you wore on your first date or the jeans you’ve worn in just right. These pieces carry stories and emotions that are irreplaceable. By mending them, we're preserving those memories and keeping a piece of your history intact. It's like wrapping ourselves in nostalgia and cherishing the moments we hold dear.
In a world that constantly promotes new, shiny things, mending your clothes is a rebellion against the throwaway culture. It's a way of saying, "I value what I have, and I won't succumb to mindless consumption." It's a step towards conscious living, where we appreciate the things we own and take responsibility for their upkeep.
Whether you're picking up a needle and thread for the first time or you're an experienced mender, keep stitching, patching, and repairing. Embrace the beauty of mending clothes and let it be a reminder of our power to make a difference, one stitch at a time.