Avoiding the seams, I cut my jeans into inch-wide strips and started to braid the fabric.  I sewed more denim on to the end of each strip to extend the braid.

Three pairs of jeans later, I had a very long braid.  I began to coil up the braid and sew it in place to form a base.
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I extended upward and outward, making a denim vase perfect for artificial blooms.  Welcome, springtime!

My first upcycling project is almost all done!  It was inspired by spring cleaning.  I always go through my closets and kiss the clothes that haven’t seen the light of day for a few years goodbye so that there’s space for new things.  However, that doesn’t mean I waste what I no longer use. 
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Here’s a hint as to what I’m making—it’s a denim project!  Sometimes my skinnies lose their stretch or my flares fade to where they’re unwearable, but that doesn’t mean it’s all over for my favorite jeans.  I’ll be posting my jean reincarnation soon!  

Seeing sewing machines for sale in big-box stores confirms the obvious: crafting is back big time!  After a few generations of women have decided to skip out on beading, embroidery, and knitting, it’s interesting and surprising to see a resurgence of making.  Why are the arts and crafts traditionally made by women so popular again all of the sudden?

Part of the crafting renaissance may be due to the Great Recession of 2008.  “Recessionistas” bored on their “staycations” looked for new ways to have fun at home.  Instead of a night out on the town for an expensive dinner, I tried to recreate the recipe at home.  Instead of donating my blouse missing buttons, I fixed it.  What started out as practical became a passion.  I found myself beading, cross stitching, and upcycling all of the time.

Another reason for the upswing in making may be due to the decline in the quality of manufactured goods.  Three of the new dresses that I bought this year ripped the first time I washed them because the seams were too weak.  My own stitches are stronger.  All the preservatives in canned frosting give it a bitter aftertaste.  My buttercream frosting is better.  We are skilled and can customize ingredients and style when we make things.  When money can’t buy manufactured quality, only crafting can guarantee it.

Last but not least, creating is empowering and boosts the economy.  Buying locally made products gives people the opportunity to start small businesses.  Handmade can work as a business model because the maker has the ability to adapt to what the customer needs and can customize products.  Ultimately, creating is all about versatility and making a statement. 
 
When did you begin crafting?  Were you a “Recessionista”?  Please take a moment to share your story.