betz white q&a

Anyone who knows the satisfaction of making something lovely out of something lackluster should lean in a little closer for today’s post. Please join me in welcoming Betz White, crafter and author of Sewing Green. Her new book includes more than two dozen projects using materials found in some pretty unlikely places. This is close to my crafting heart because making something from a pillowcase was one of the first sewing projects I ever attempted, and I can’t get enough of making stuff out of felted sweaters.

Betz takes the practice of repurposing to new levels, using old juice containers and mens’ dress shirts that have seen better days. Her projects span clothing and accessories: skirts made from vintage tablecloths, reusable sandwich wraps, and (my personal favorite) an adorable woodland-inspired draft buster. She also packs in loads of practical information for evaluating thrift store finds, and captures that anticipation of being on the prowl for – and then finding – gems among other people’s cast-offs.

So cozy on up to learn more about what inspires Betz, and leave a hello in the comment section for a chance to win a copy of her book! Drawing closes at midnight tonight.

KW: Welcome, Betz. It’s great to have you here. You used to work as a kids clothing designer for major manufacturing companies. It seems like night and day compared to what you do now: making one-of-a-kind creations made from repurposed finds. Does it feel that different to you, or are there some similarities?

BW: My corporate background in childrens apparel design has given me some valuable insight into manufacturing, marketing, and general knowledge about the corporate world. I wouldn't trade that experience for anything. However, I do see things much differently now. I've come to realize the incredible waste generated by the apparel industry. I've learned about the price we all pay for "fast-fashion" and how so many of us have lived with the belief that more stuff equals better living. I feel really empowered by the DIY movement and the crafting community. I have high hopes that we can raise awareness to the fact that our disposable lifestyle is not sustainable.

KW: Your projects really resonate with me, partly because when I started sewing I went through a phase making things with pillowcases. I think it was because some of the sewing was already done for me, with those perfect hems and seams! In your experience, can it be easier for beginning sewers to start working with already-made items like tablecloths, sheets and pillowcases – because some of the work is already done?

BW: For some beginners it might be much easier to visualize oneself making a skirt or a top out of a pillowcase because, as you said,it's already partially made. That is definitely one benefit of
repurposing an item: using the details that already exist. Any shortcuts, such as hemmed edges or precisely made pockets, are always a bonus!

KW: Can you share with us some of your process for deciding what to make with your thrifting finds? For instance, do you know what you’re going to make with everything you pick up, or do your finds dictate what you’ll create?

BW: There's a little back and forth. I have favorite items that I make certain to look for, such as wool sweaters, pillowcases and sheets, linen skirts, etc. Once I find something I like, the particular print, coloration or fabrication helps me determine what it wants to be. A bulky sweater would be more suitable for a sturdy bag, a softer one for a scarf. A juvenile print pillowcase might make a sweet girls sundress while a more sophisticated floral would be perfect for a women's skirt.

KW: I love how you say your kitchen table at home is used more for art projects than for eating. The same was true of my childhood kitchen table, and it’s true of our big dining room table now. What advice would you give for people who want to bring more of that spirit to their kitchen tables?

BW: If you're trying to create a crafty environment for your family, I think it's important to have crafting supplies easily accessible. Clear out a cupboard or drawer near your kitchen table or a work table and fill it with paper, markers, scissors, paints, etc. Get involved with craft projects yourself if you don't already. Encourage your kids by making things together. The internet is an infinite source of ideas for all levels of craftiness.

I believe it is important for us to model "maker" behavior to our children. When you have the confidence that you can make something or repair something instead of buying new, it's empowering and confidence building!

KW: I go through a lot of “crafting crushes” – when I can’t get enough of using a certain kind of material. This winter, I was definitely on a felted sweater kick, and now you’ve given me a lot more ideas for using the stashes of felted sweaters I have! Do you have a crush right now on a certain kind of material or project?

BW: Right now I'm totally digging sheets and pillowcases with 70's florals. They speak to me! I love the colors and the softness that comes with time. I'm imagining many summer tops, skirts, lounge pants and bags in my near future!

Thanks so much for joining us, Betz.

Betz is midway through touring a lots of great blogs, where she’s talking about different aspects of her work and book – find a detailed list here and follow along. I’ll announce the lucky book winner Monday morning. Thanks again, Betz!