How a bit of imagination and lots of patience can transform a worn out fitted sheet
by mar_mar
Sustainability & Minimalism Journey Overview
Follow this step-by-step sustainability & minimalism journey to see real progress updates, challenges overcome, and practical experience.
Progress Updates (5 total)
Update #1: How a bit of imagination and lots of patience can transform a worn out fitted sheet
I try to reuse material as much as possible in order to reduce the amount of trash going in the landfill
Challenges Overcome: I shredded the sheet into strips
Obstacles Faced: I’ve never done anything like that before so I expect something to get in the way
Looking Back: In order to prevent the problem altogether, buying two flat sheets instead of a set that includes a fitted sheet, allows for rotation as top and bottom, and ensures a longer life for the bedding.
Update #2: I decided to create a basket of some sort adding red for contrast
15% completeI started by crocheting around the strip while also folding it in to avoid fraying from showing up.
Challenges Overcome: I managed to make a colourful basket on my first attempt
Obstacles Faced: The material is very soft with frayed edges which poses a dual challenge.
Looking Back: Working with a plan can save time but working organically is a good learning opportunity
Update #3: I experimented with rolling into pinwheels
25% completeIt’s a more organic use of material without the need for sewing or crocheting
Challenges Overcome: They can be used as coasters
Obstacles Faced: There’s a discrepancy in the thickness because of the way the sheet has worn out in the middle but remains intact on the side
Looking Back: Just go with the flow
Update #4: I added a pot holder/trivet to the collection
35% completeThis time I sewed the wrapped fabric coils into similar spiral construction using a tonal color and heavy crochet thread.
I added a pop of red as a unifying accent.
Challenges Overcome: I’m trying to make useful and practical things
Obstacles Faced: I still have a lot of fabric that I like to use up in the next project.
Looking Back: The fabric is too soft without the coiling cord traditionally used by most people. But I’m trying to use as little additional material as possible.
Update #5: Cut some twigs thinking I could weave a basket with remaining material
35% completeIn order to make them pliable, I bound them together and soaked them in the tub
Challenges Overcome: Other than braving the bitter cold to cut those twigs, it was a failure as they started to break when I began to bend them
Obstacles Faced: This wasn’t going anywhere and need to rethink my next move
Looking Back: I need to respect the natural order of things like allowing them to dry out and shrink before soaking and plying.