We’ve all heard the term “fast fashion” – the production of inexpensive, trendy clothing designed to keep up with the ever-changing consumer demand (Good On You). While fast fashion may seem convenient, it severely impacts our environment. The fashion industry generates more carbon dioxide than aviation and shipping combined, resulting in about 92 million tons of textile waste and half a million tons of microplastics each year (Earth.org). Those tons of textile waste and microplastics then end up in landfills, get washed into storm drains, and pollute our oceans, which can harm the health of both the environment and humans.
How do we avoid contributing to this environmental crisis? One solution is to invest in high-quality garments. Although quality garments come with a higher price tag, they save you money in the long run by increasing the durability and lifetime of a piece of clothing and reducing the need for constant replacement. However, even the best clothes need proper care to stand the test of time. That’s where garment bags come in handy.
Instead of buying new garment bags, why not make your own from scrap fabrics? These DIY bags protect your clothes from dust, critters, and unnecessary wear, all while reducing wrinkles and creases. Plus, it’s a creative and sustainable way to upcycle leftover materials!
Supplies
Sewing machine
Two large pieces of scrap fabric
Clothes Hanger
Instructions
- Lay one piece of fabric flat and place your hanger on the top, with the hook above the fabric’s edge.
- Trace around the top of the hanger with a 1” seam allowance, leaving enough space for the hook. Then, draw straight lines down from the bottom corners of your outline . Make sure the length is slightly longer than the garment you want to protect and that your outline leaves ample room for you to sew around the hanger.
- Repeat the outline on the second fabric piece, then cut both pieces to match.
- Place the two pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing each other and pin them securely.
- Sew along both side edges, leaving about an inch unsewn at the top and bottom.
- Fold the fabric twice to cover the raw edge, creating hems along the top and bottom edges. Pin the folds in place, then sew to secure.
Now, you have a handmade garment bag ready to protect your clothes! Use it as you would use a store-bought one to help keep your wardrobe looking fresh and feeling great. To learn more about fighting fast fashion and living more sustainably, visit our blog.
Source: Good On You, Earth.org