Katie is inspired by upcycling project

Katie is inspired by upcycling project

Year 13 student at Stamford Sixth Form, Katie Rickett, has been inspired by her studies in Textiles Technology to begin a business upcycling clothing items, reusing materials that would otherwise go to waste to create new garments.

Katie creates upcycled, handmade garments, selling them through her Instagram here and Depop here. Stock drops are announced on Instagram, where a limited number of a chosen style are then made available. Whilst she told us that beginning a business has always been something she has been keen to do, lockdown provided her with the ‘perfect opportunity to go for it’.

Katie explains that she was inspired to begin her business, ‘KHR Upcyling’, through her Year 12 upcycling project during her A Level Textiles course, where a denim jacket was created using old jeans.

Katie said: “I had the idea to create KHR upcyling at the end of Year 12. It sparked my interest and love for upcycling and sustainable and ethical fashion. I’ve been sewing since I was young, as my mum and granny are both seamstresses, and I’ve always loved making things.

“I created by @khr.upcycling Instagram account in July 2019 as a form of personal documentation of my projects, but after doodling a logo and talking to my friends, the idea of creating a business where i could share my love for, and sell, my upcycled garments really appealed to me.”

Discussing her aims for the future, Katie said: “I want to continue to create colourful, fun and adjustable upcycled clothing for all shapes and sizes!

“Being adjustable is really important to me, as it ensures comfort, and that my stock drops can appeal to as many people as possible. I currently have three styles which can all fit a size 8 to 12; the Darcy top, the Gimmy dress and the Grace dress, and these are all named after the first person to buy this design, and the aim is to become even more size inclusive.

I have lots more ideas and designs waiting, so keep your eyes peeled!”

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