Lots of everyday objects that people regard as rubbish can be useful and beautiful. I have always enjoyed re-using things before they can be thrown away and I enjoy sharing ideas with others. Running workshops is such an enjoyable way to get a simple message across. Not only do people get to see everyday items from a different perspective, but they also learn to recycle things themselves rather than just leaving them for someone else to deal with.

 

These projects are to promote eco-awareness and creativity by recycling scrap material into clothes, accessories, and art work. The courses encourage awareness of the resources and materials we use daily and illustrate how useful many things are that are often regarded as rubbish.

 

As well as the hands-on workshop there is also a discussion group at the end of every class. Each individual has the opportunity to make something for himself and also to work in a team, with the possibility of putting on an exhibition at the end of the course to spread awareness of green issues.

 

1. Rubber Lover: bags, purses and more out of inner-tubes.

Save landfill space by making your own "exclusive" accessories out of inner-tubes, plastic, and anything that looks cool. Just cut a pattern, cut your own thread, punch holes and sew it together!

 2. Lamps, a ray of light from rubbish:

Plastic bottles from water, washing-up liquid and cleaning products can be cut up and decorated to make fun lampshades.

3. Plastic Fantastic: Wall-hangings from plastic bags.

Too many plastic bags at home? Use them to make a funky picture to brighten up your home.

4. It's Sew Soothing: easy projects for the sewing impaired.

It's such a shame to throw away old clothes... and even more of a shame to take plastic bags from supermarkets. Use your old clothes to make a bag for life.

5. Flash-trays: make use of those drink-cans!

Give your favourite beverages container a new life, cut them up and make a little tray for putting a candle on, leaving your jewellery, or just as a decoration.

6. Wheelie-tables: use bicycle wheel-rims to make a coffee table.

 

The workshops can be tailored to meet requirements for schools, enhancing the curriculum at all levels. Work made can be part of portfolios in Art & Design, Textiles, Performing Arts, Design & Technology, Manufacturing and Citizenship.

 

I have been running workshops for all ages and backgrounds for the last five years in community centres in Barcelona and in festivals in Spain, Germany, Italy and the Czech Republic.

 

 

“My son has told me off a few times for putting things in the wrong bin and often fishes things out to use in his own art projects!” - Sylvia, mother of Norberto, age 10

 

“I liked making the lamps the most, I love the colours when the lights are turned on.” - Noemi, aged 12