Final Project - Recycling: Collar Designs

I have been working with my designs to create interesting and individual collars...

Some of my completed pieces to date:

I absolutely love working with the different plastics and have found that through heating the crocheted circles I can alter the form of them from a flat object into a more structured component.

I have used this technique to begin developing a range of corsages, some of which I have included in my above designs. However I am experimenting with further methods, including crocheting with wire, linen and a range of bin liners I have discovered, which are made from recycled materials.

Through this I plan on adding a dimensional element to some of my collar designs and to compile a collection of one-off corsages to be worn as broaches.

Recycling Project - Year Two

Here is a sample of products resulting from my first recycling-based project, completed during my second year of study.

I worked with strips of used Sainsburys carrier bags, which I crocheted and knitted with in order to produce a range of wearable and sustainable accessories. I also experimented with applying heat to my work to achieve varied textures and appearances.

Necklaces ~

Crocheted circles, attatched to chain stitch, untreated.One of my first heat-treated results, used here as a singular pendant.Chain necklace, made with 3-D knitted peices, as opposed to the previous flattened circles. Again, heat was used to create the various components. Rings & Corsages ~

Heat treated crochet work, mounted on a metal ring base.

Bisto broach; crochet circle mounted in a recycled bisto lid!Singular corsage, semi-heated, on elasticated band Multi-corsaged bracelet, connected via chain stitched plastic.Belts & Bags ~

Plastic buckle detail, with black elasticated band and popper stud fastening. Knitted plastic belt, with black plastic buckle fastening. I also experimented with using the plastic strips on a larger gauge knitting machines, the results of which I used to create a range of bags; an example of which I have included below. This image is taken of a clutch bag, with crochet circle and popper stud fastening detail.
A year on and all of the products are still lasting strong! A far more resourceful and attractive use of plastic bags then throwing them away and allowing our landscape to become littered!