DIY Guidelines for Redesign

Redesign not only conserves natural resources but also provides a valuable hands-on experience and a sense of community. When second-hand clothes are renewed together—whether in workshops, courses, or among friends—shared experiences are created, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds. In a time when many experience isolation or a lack of community, clothing upcycling can foster meaningful connections.

At the same time, we learn to appreciate the stories behind our garments. Every piece of knitwear or pair of jeans carries a history, and through redesign, it is given a new chapter. In this way, clothes become more than just everyday objects—they transform into unique and meaningful parts of our lives. This redefinition of material value is particularly important in advancing the circular economy, as highlighted by Kirchherr et al. (2017) in their study on its opportunities and challenges.

A new beginning for knitwear

Aalto University graduating textile designer Saimi Parikka was inspired to develop techniques for reusing old knitwear. She developed reworking knitwear by unpicking the knitwear’s structure. Now she has put together six different tutorials (1-6) for this technique. These tutorials are particularly suitable for people who are already knitting enthusiasts, as they already have a basic understanding of how the stitches and the structure of knitwear work.

When the knitwear is modified by unpicking, it widens as the stitches are dropped and increases in length as the remaining stitches are loosened. This way, knitwear in size XS can be modified into knitwear in size M-L. The unpicked surface becomes slightly transparent and lacy. By unpicking, you can add detail to a garment or, if you treat the entire surface, you can completely change the design and look of the garment. Unpicking, like knitting, is a repetitive movement that can even feel meditative. It’s also inspiring to “destroy” a neat industrial knitted surface and challenge yourself to create an irregular, sprawling pattern. The reworking of clothes can increase the user’s appreciation for the life cycle of the garment and the work, which is crucial for promoting a sustainable consumer culture. Saimi hopes that the tutorials will encourage people to work together and share ideas.

Jeans at the forefront of sustainable fashion

With more than 15 years of experience, master seamstress Paula Malleus-Lemettinen specialises in extending the life of jeans by repairing, developing, and testing upcycling techniques. According to Paula, old jeans can be turned into unique products that can also be mass-produced, saving water, energy and materials. She developed DIY tutorials (7-9) were developed for the production of creative jeans products.

Paula also emphasises the social dimension of redesign. “When we bring people together for workshops or projects, we can provide an opportunity to share ideas and learn from each other. Upcycling jeans is not only ecological, it also builds a sense of community and shared moments of success.” This is closely related to the model of expansive learning developed by Engeström (2001): learning in the community can open up new ways of understanding the meaning of sustainable development and practical ways of achieving it.

Saimi and Paula demonstrate that sustainable fashion can be creative, personal, and collaborative. Modifying old knitwear and jeans offers a tangible way to reduce one’s carbon footprint while fostering creativity, interaction, and cooperation. So, dig out those forgotten knitwear and jeans and give them new life—perhaps with a little inspiration from Saimi and Paula!