Summer is winding down. School will start soon. Save money and show off your own personal style with upcycled clothing. Maybe you are new to upcycling. No worries, the ideas here will inspire you and help you get going.
Taking Inventory
The first step to successful upcycling and thrifting is to know what you have. I recommend heading to your closet. Next take an inventory. Pull out anything you haven’t worn in a while or will probably never wear again. This pile can be taken to the thrift store. Some thrift stores will give you credit when you bring in your clothes. That you can use to purchase new to you clothes in their shop. Or you can have a clothing swap with friends.
If there are pieces this pile that are loved but are stained or need mending. I recommend visible mending. There are two ways to do this. Choose the method that best fits your style.
One applique. I once added a cute little bird to a favorite skirt to cover a stain. This video tutorial will show you how.
The second method uses embroidery thread. I find mine at garage sales and second hand stores. There are thrift shops that specialize in craft supplies. These shops are a great resource for supplies when it comes to upcycling clothing. In addition to floss you can find fabric. I used embroidery floss on these jeans to turn holes into flowers.
With the clothes remaining in your closet ask yourself what could I add to make this fabulous?
I found this dress while thrifting. I love how flowy it is. 
It was great for summer. But would sit in my closet when the weather cooled. I realized that a red sweater would enable me to wear it year round. So I looked for one each time I went to the thrift store. Recently I found the perfect sweater. I’m looking forward to fall when I can wear them together.
Thrifting
With you list of clothing items to look for head to the thrift store. I like to go through the racks in clothing my size. I grab anything that appeals to me. Keeping in mind my needed items. Next try the items on. I have two rules when thrifting. One I have to love it to buy it or have a planned vision for the item. Two I can only buy the number of items I have gotten rid of.
Planned visions can include adding applique. Like this sweatshirt I bought specifically to add the Dresden plate.
Or this T-shirt that I added a quilt block to for the 4th of July. Make your own with this tutorial. 
I’ve even added pockets to pants that I loved how they fit but didn’t have pockets. A major problem for me. Learn how I did this here.
This pair of pants is a work in progress. They are my favorite jeans. I don’t want to get rid of them. So I keep adding applique and visible mending to make them last.
I hope this gets you inspired. And your ready to go back to school in style with upcycled clothing.
