A revamped charity shop is turning rags into riches as part of a pioneering drive to make do and mend.
The manager of Huddersfield’s newly-relocated Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice shop, Vanessa Evans, is looking for people to work their magic on donations to give them a new lease of life in a reworked look.
Taking inspiration from a new trend called upcycling, volunteers will cut, glue. restitch and reshape clothes, furniture and other goods into wearable and bespoke pieces which will then be sold to customers in a dedicated area of the shop to channel more money into the charity.
Fashion students have also been invited to get on board to manage the project and gain invaluable experience in running their own clothes section before they graduate.
It is just one of several new initiatives that the store will be piloting in the coming months, following their move from old premises in John William Street to Cross Church Street earlier this month.
Vanessa said: “It’s quite a novel idea but one that we think could work really well as recycling comes back into fashion.
“Anyone who is inspired by upcycling and can turn something that looks a bit tired or tatty into something useful will be welcomed with open arms to join us in this project.
“People can either work on their designs in the store or at home and can devote whatever amount of time they can manage.
“Whether they are good with clothes, household goods or decorations, we would really appreciate their skills and it will be a great way to showcase their talents for our cause.
“I also hope that it will be a good opportunity for students looking for work experience in the world of fashion retail.”
The shop will also become home to a regular knit and knatter group to help busy crafters meet like-minded people in the town.
This will be in addition to quilting workshops, which will be held in the store to allow people the opportunity to learn a new skill.
Knit and knatter group quilting workshop
To find out more or to sign up as a volunteer call Vanessa on 01484 519617.
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