“Every big change starts with a small idea.”
That’s how SCRAPSTITCH began—just a tiny thought about what could be done with the endless pieces of fabric that go to waste. It wasn’t a grand plan to change the world at first; it was simply me staring at leftover fabric scraps and wondering if there was a better way to use them. Little did I know that this small question would grow into a mission, one that would touch lives and highlight the importance of sustainability.
The Seed of an Idea
Growing up in a household where nothing went to waste, I was always taught the value of repurposing. My mother would take old saris and turn them into curtains, cushion covers, or anything that could find a second life. It was these memories that sparked the initial idea for SCRAPSTITCH. I started noticing how much fabric goes unused, especially in industries where textiles are abundant but undervalued once they’re no longer in vogue. Instead of these scraps piling up in landfills, I wondered: why not turn them into something useful—something meaningful?
That’s when the idea of making blankets from textile waste came into focus.
A Mission Takes Shape
Initially, the goal was simple: recycle fabric scraps to make blankets and distribute them to those in need. It seemed like such a small step, but the more I researched, the more I realized the extent of textile waste. According to some estimates, millions of tons of fabric waste are discarded every year. It wasn’t just about upcycling anymore; it was about addressing a much larger issue.
The SCRAPSTITCH Project became my way of contributing to a solution, no matter how small my efforts seemed at first. I began sourcing fabric waste from local tailors, textile factories, and even friends who were clearing out their closets. It was amazing to see how what was once seen as waste could be transformed into something as essential as a blanket.
Personal Drive Behind SCRAPSTITCH
For me, this project is more than just about sustainability; it’s about community and empathy. The feeling of handing over a warm blanket to someone in need is indescribable. Each blanket represents not only a new life for the fabric but also a small act of kindness. It symbolizes care and thoughtfulness—a reminder that even in a world driven by consumption, we can still choose to give back.
SCRAPSTITCH aligns with my belief that sustainability isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a human one. The simple act of recycling fabric does more than just reduce waste—it creates opportunities for others to feel the warmth of human compassion.
The Impact and the Future
So far, SCRAPSTITCH has distributed dozens of blankets to communities in need. But this is only the beginning. What started as a small idea has evolved into a mission that not only tackles textile waste but also fosters community spirit.
The future of SCRAPSTITCH is bright, with plans to collaborate with more local tailors, expand the types of items we produce, and even involve schools and community groups in upcycling workshops. The more people we involve, the greater the impact—and the more fabric we save from landfills.