A variety of remnants are given a new life underfoot
Ever wonder what happens to the scraps of fabric leftover from garment making? If you’re like me, you probably haven’t. My first introduction to upcycling fabric waste came when I started selling rug pads made in part from new clothing remnants. Each time I receive an order the pads look a bit different depending on which fabric scraps were used. It’s quite fascinating to see first hand the efforts manufacturers are making in repurposing industry waste.
Dreamweavers is one company utilizing upcycled products in rug making. Their Executive Rugs Line [above] is constructed of material leftover after making men’s neckties. Bits of silk and polyester fabric are cut and sewn by hand, filled with a poly filling then pieced together. The rug is promoted as stain-resistant, colorfast and 100% machine washable.
Shoelaces? Yes, shoelace fabric in a variety of sizes shapes and styles make up the Shoelace Rug in ivory and camel. They’re even machine washable.
Cotton Spaghetti Rug is 100% biodegradable, eco-friendly and made from the selvage edge of upcycled cotton t-shirt remnants. Machine washable. Shown in asparagus and French ivory.
What’s a person to do with vintage leather belts? Assemble together and create the Vintage Belt Floor Mat. Each one slightly different from the next depending on the color and characteristics of the belts used. Handmade at TING studios in the UK and available for purchase from Branch Home.
We saw the ingenuity of the Campana Brothers with their Banquete chair, and they don’t disappoint us with the Vitória Régia Stool. Ok, so not a rug, but a clever use of carpet underlay product (padding) combined with unwanted remnants of tablecloths and brightly colored plastic create a fun piece.
