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Thursday, May 2, 2013

Using Silk Neckties For Upcycling Projects

By Alison Wilcox


Creative thinking turns common silk neckties into excellent material for upcycling projects. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and can be found the closet of nearly any man.

In recent years, upcycling has become a popular form of at home recycling. Silk ties are exceptionally good candidates for this kind of project because they are an inexpensive source of high end, luxury fabric. They can also be used to make very sentimental items if the ties used have been collected from friends and loved ones.

The amount of ties required for a great project will vary from one to many. For small projects a friendly closet is a good option for sourcing project materials, but for larger projects one will need to broaden the search. Thrift stores and estate sales are both good options. When shopping these venues, one should look for ties with no snags, stains, or discolorations. It will be much easier to work with material that is in good to excellent condition.

For crafting material that has been carefully selected, there will only be a small amount of prep work before ones project can begin. Most second hand items will have an aged odor and should be hung to air in a sheltered area with good ventilation for several days. Once this is done, the only other preparation that is required is inspecting the ties and final planning of the project. For less than perfect specimens, one will need to either attempt repairs and/or stain removal or make plans to work around the existing flaws.

Mental preparation is also necessary when working with silk. Knowing a few tips and tricks can go along way to easing one's mind and ensuring a successful project. To start with, plan to work at a relaxed place and be sure to have sharp pins, sewing machine needles designed for delicate fabric, and polyester thread. When working silk, keep its delicate nature in mind and only pin with in the seam allowance and never back stitch. To secure seams and hems hand tie the loose thread ends.

One of the easiest projects to make from silk neckties is a pouch. The wide end of the tie creates a natural pocket and is the perfect size for holding many everyday items. To start, cut the tie off at the desired length and stitch closed right side to right side. Use the pointed end of the tie to create an envelope style flap and secure with a vintage button. Eye glasses, cell phones, and iPods are all of a size that will fit into one of these stylish cases.

Another simple project to create with salvaged ties is a throw pillow. After choosing several coordinating ties, one should use a seam ripper to remove the stitches that secure the back seam of the tie. This will open the fabric and create a larger, less dense working surface. A dry iron should then be used to smooth the newly opened fabric. Next, stitch the ties together into a custom, silk patchwork before using a square template to cut the pillow top. Once the pillow top is designed and cut, use an identically sized fabric square and fiber fill to complete the pillow.

Pouches and pillows are merely the beginning of what one can make with silk neckties. The internet is a great source of inspiration and once the creativity is flowing one will find dozens of projects to create with these every day fashion accessories.




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