Greencastle Community Centre leading the way in sustainable fashion

A recent Donegal ETB funded project aimed at recycling and repurposing second-hand clothing has proven very popular in Greencastle Community Centre.

The project, created by Centre manager Susan McAleer showed participants the skills needed to redesign and reshape garments into unique and beautiful new pieces, while also keeping more clothes and textiles from going to landfill.

“The fashion industry creates, annually, over 500 billion Euro worth of waste. The waste comes from discarded materials, under-utilised clothing, and the lack of recycling processes in place. It is heart breaking seeing the level of impact fast fashion has on the environment but by learning these skills our participants can actively combat this within their own communities,” said Susan.

The innovative project brought participants together and collectively taught them how to make alterations and repairs to items sourced from the Centre’s Good As New Shop, Finders Keepers. Course tutor Leona assisted participants in everything from creating a handbag from a pair of jeans to modernising and reshaping blazers and dresses.

“The course has been a fantastic way to show people how to create individual pieces whilst also learning sewing techniques and raising awareness of environmental issues,” said Leona.

An exhibition of photographs and items will be on display at the Centre from February 6. Finders Keepers open daily from 11am.