ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the relatively newly coined 'upcycling' process as a viable recycling method for re-using what would otherwise be textile waste; and compares the upcycling process with a typical fashion production process model. Creating products using upcycling methods poses challenges to the mass production sector. Upcycling is a different type of recycling method making use of the materials and components of discarded goods to transform them through clever design and skilled craftsmanship into new, high-value products. Upcycling can offer an alternative, turning end-of-life garments and textile waste into fashionable products with a high retail value and assisting the industry to develop more sustainable production methods. The fashion and textile sector is an equal opportunities sector; approximately 57% of the workforce are male and 43% female. For the manufacturing sector fabric cut-offs and end of roll fabric constitute waste.
