welcome betz white and book giveaway!
Apr 16, 2009 
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. Congrats, Paula -- you're the winner!
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 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.
Click here to continue reading Betz's inspiring Q&A!
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Reader Comments (64)
Hi
I have seen reference to this book all over recently, but this is the first interview I've stopped and read. The book sounds great, I will have to search out a copy. Thanks for making me notice!
I'd love a chance to win this book--thank you!
:-) Lise
Oh how I want to win this book - Betz White has such great ideas!!
What a wonderful book. It would be such a treat to when. Thank you for hosting, and thank you Betz for sharing your creativity with us.
Thank you for sharing your ideas Betz! I have a couple pieces of clothing I was going to donate to goodwill but love the fabric and patterns too much! So they're just sitting in a pile waiting to be used. :) I'll have to check this book out for sure!!!
The more I hear about this book, the more I want it!
sarahbcrawford(at)gmail(dot)com
this book looks amazing...I'm excited about learning new ways to re-make and recycle what I already have on hand :-)
www.lifeisfulloffourleafclovers.blogspot.com
This book is beautiful. Thanks for offering it as a giveaway, and for posting the great interview!
I can't wait to get a copy of this! I love the log draft buster, so cute!
Thank you for this offer. I'd love to win this book.
I would love to win this book, looks great!
Thanks!
Thanks for sharing your expertise and enthusiasm. I would love an opportunity to win your book.
I am loving what I am seeing from Betz's book!
Looks like a great book for making presents!
My sister-in-law and I make skirts out of old pillowcases - they're such lovely, soft, worn-in cotton. I'd love to win the book and get some more great ideas from a very creative lady!
What a fabulous book! I hope I win!!
Awesome!
I have loved her since I first saw her felted thrifted sweater cupcakes on Martha. Plus, I used to live in the same area! I'd love this book, should I be so lucky to win.
:D
I'm so glad this book is getting plenty of attention! Reduce, reuse, recycle -- repeat.
It looks very interesting.
I would love to win this book!
I'd love the chance to win this marvelous book! ~H
Hello! Great interview--I feel like I need this book! :)
i keep trying to request this book from my local library system so that they buy a bunch of copies. : )
what a fun book! ditto the love for thrifted linens and 70s prints :) hrm...pillowcases...i'll have to try mixing them in with the deconstructed shirts!