Shoppers shown how to upcycle as part of Second Hand September

As part of Second Hand September, the St Wilfrid’s Hospice shop in Terminus Road, Eastbourne, hosted an event to show people how to upcycle their garments last Saturday (26th September).

Sew, Style and Reuse was a brand-new event featuring local seamstresses Naida Evans and Katie Fitzwilliams. The pair held a day of live alterations, creative upcycling and smart DIYs using second hand items found in the hospice’s Clearance Shop in Moy Avenue.

Naida used ties for a Vivienne Westwood-inspired bow charm project for bags, jeans and necklaces. She also made silk tie scrunchies and turned sparkly clothing into stylish handbags. Katie explained how to upcycle jackets, jeans and other printed garments, and demonstrated some DIY projects for second hand clothing.

Shop Manager, Vanessa Whittle, said: “Sustainability and recycling items are at the heart of what we do in our shops, so this was a wonderful opportunity to share expert knowledge with customers. Lots of them were keen to pick up some clever restyling techniques and learn how to turn second hand items into statement pieces. Our thanks to everyone who attended, and especially to Naida and Katie for sharing their expertise.”

St Wilfrid’s Hospice provides high-quality care and support for people across Eastbourne, Seaford, Hailsham, Uckfield, Heathfield (and all points between) with life-limiting illnesses.