Upcycled Fabric Braided Coaster

Upcycling offers a sustainable and creative alternative to traditional waste management methods, and can have a positive impact on both the environment and communities.

Here are some of the benefits of upcycling:

1. Reduces waste: Upcycling presents an effective solution to waste reduction by taking advantage of materials that would otherwise be discarded in landfills. By repurposing these materials and transforming them into new products, we can reduce the amount of waste that is generated and limit our environmental impact.
2. Saves resources: Upcycling represents a sustainable approach to resource conservation, as it utilizes existing materials in lieu of extracting or manufacturing new resources. By reimagining the potential of discarded items, we can reduce the need for additional raw materials, which can help to minimize our environmental footprint.
3. Saves energy: In contrast to recycling, which involves melting and reprocessing materials, upcycling requires significantly less energy. Instead, upcycling involves repurposing existing materials and transforming them into new products, which can lead to a reduction in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Promotes creativity: Upcycling fosters creativity and ingenuity by inspiring individuals to discover novel and imaginative methods of repurposing materials. This sustainable approach to waste reduction motivates people to think outside of the box and experiment with different materials, textures, and colours, to create something unique and functional.
5. Saves money: Upcycling presents a cost-effective means of generating innovative and practical items, since it often entails the utilization of readily available materials. By upcycling, individuals can reduce their reliance on costly new materials and instead take advantage of the potential that can be found in materials that are already at hand.
6. Reduces carbon footprint: By reducing the need for new raw materials and energy-intensive manufacturing processes, upcycling helps to minimise the carbon footprint of a product

An upcycled fabric braided coaster is a coaster made from meticulously braiding strips of scrap fabric, giving it a unique and textured look.

The coaster can be customised by carefully selecting the type and colour of fabric you wish to braid for the coaster!

The workshop uses fabric strips sourced from upcycled clothing as the main material for creating the braided coasters. These fabric strips are cleaned, prepared, and provided to participants during the workshop.

We highly encourage you to use your own fabric too 🙂 

Our Upcycled Fabric Braided Coaster Workshops are designed to be efficient and engaging, with a typical completion time of 1.5h. This includes both the theoretical portion and the practical portion of the workshop. We understand that the students have many lessons to attend, making it difficult to slot such activities into their timetables at times, so we've structured our workshops to be concise and easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

However, despite the short duration, we are confident that the participants will walk away with a newfound appreciation for upcycling and the skills necessary to continue creating functional items from used materials, along with the scientific knowledge of how terrarium ecosystems work.

1. Environmental Consciousness: By using upcycled fabric braided coasters, you contribute to reducing waste and promoting sustainability. These coasters are made from repurposed or recycled fabric, giving new life to materials that might have otherwise been discarded.

2. Decorative Accents: Upcycled fabric braided coasters can add a charming and unique touch to your home decor. The braided patterns and vibrant colors of these coasters can complement different interior styles and add visual interest to tabletops, coffee tables, or side tables.

3. Heat and Moisture Protection: Just like any coaster, upcycled fabric braided coasters provide protection for your surfaces. They can shield tabletops from heat damage caused by hot mugs, cups, or pots. Additionally, these coasters absorb condensation from cold drinks, preventing water rings and stains on your furniture.

4. Eco-Friendly Gift Option: Upcycled fabric braided coasters make thoughtful and eco-friendly gifts. They showcase your commitment to sustainability while also providing a practical and stylish item. Consider giving them as presents for housewarmings, birthdays, or other special occasions.

Braiding Techniques: In an upcycled fabric braided coaster workshop, participants have the opportunity to learn various braiding techniques used for creating fabric braided coasters. This includes understanding different types of braids such as spiral, flat, or round braids, and becoming familiar with the steps involved in creating them.

Coaster Construction: Participants are guided through the step-by-step process of constructing fabric braided coasters. They learn techniques like starting the braid, joining fabric strips, and shaping the coaster to achieve the desired size and design.

Knotting and Finishing: The workshop teaches participants how to secure the ends of the braided fabric strips, tie knots, and finish the coasters neatly. This ensures that the coasters are durable, visually appealing, and ready for use.

Creative Design: Workshops often emphasize creative design aspects, allowing participants to explore different colour combinations, patterns, and embellishments. 

Upcycling Concepts: Beyond coaster-making techniques, participants gain insights into the broader concept of upcycling. They learn about the environmental benefits of upcycling, creative ways to repurpose materials, and methods to incorporate sustainable practices into their crafting projects.