Textile waste reimagined -
A transformational journey where discarded fabrics are given new purpose – and a longer life.
From Waste to Worth
From Waste to Worth
About the Project
This Bachelor's degree project by Isabelle Kemi (Industrial Design, Umeå Institute of Design, 2025) explores innovative methods for transforming textile waste from the secondhand market into new materials and products.
Through small-scale experimentation — supported by The Loop Factory, who assisted in shredding textile waste and provided valuable guidance —I’ve developed a process that turns discarded textiles into a moldable material. This extends their lifespan and offers creators a new, accessible tool for creative expression.
Aiming to address the environmental impact of textile waste, this project invites others to join the journey toward more sustainable design solutions.
Material development
Tutorial
Want to turn your old, unusable garments into brand new material? It’s easier than you think—and all you need are a few household items!
In this two-part tutorial, I’ll show you how to do just that.
In Part 1, you’ll learn how to make a non-toxic, homemade glue.
Then in Part 2, we’ll use that glue to transform textile waste into a functional box.
How to make non- toxic, homemade glue.
How to make a box out of your own clothes.
Product gallery
Pinboard
A mix of underwear and worn dark-colored t-shirts was turned into a functional pinboard – creatively framing ideas while giving new life to textile waste.
Box
Using shredded textile waste and a simple homemade glue, you can create a sturdy storage box from scratch. Follow the tutorial, explore the process, and transform discarded fabrics into something both practical and personal.
Upcycle
In this collection, I’ve reimagined— a football sock, underwear, and a t-shirt—by dressing a frame, a discarded lamp from secondhand and a plant pot. Each piece represents the unexpected beauty that can emerge when textile waste is placed in a new environment with a new purpose.
Follow Tex2More_
Follow Tex2More_
Contact Me
Got questions, want to chat or learn more? Feel free to reach out!
Tried the tutorial? I’d love to see what you came up with! Send it to me or tag @tex2more_ on Instagram! :)