ReMake the Future: Workshops Explained

This summer, a group of youth summer interns came together to plan ReMake the Future: A Repair and Upcycling Extravaganza. You can learn more about the motivation behind this event here. 

As part of the event, the interns decided that it was important to offer educational opportunities for community members to learn different ways they can implement upcycling into their own lives. To do so, they have planned a series of free workshops where attendees can actually gain hands-on experience and hopefully, make a change in their life at home. The workshops include the following:

Tasty Solutions

What you will learn:

Ever wondered how the food on your plate affects the planet? Tasty Solutions explores how simple, delicious food choices can support both your health and the environment. Participants will learn about sustainable eating, discover ways to reduce their environmental footprint, and enjoy samples. 

The challenge we’re tackling:

Our food has a larger impact than many people realize. Livestock production contributes between 11%-20% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and nearly half of Earth’s habitable land is dedicated to agriculture. By learning about more sustainable food choices, we can make a positive impact one meal at a time. 

DIY T Shirt Rug

Workshop Overview:

The old t-shirt sitting in the back of your closet doesn’t have to become trash. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to transform worn-out shirts into colorful, functional rugs while discovering the creative possibilities of upcycling. 

The Bigger Picture:

Every year, the world produces around 92 million tons of textile waste, much of which ends up in landfills. Instead of throwing old clothing away, this workshop showcases how everyday fabrics can be given a second life in a fun and practical way.

Sewing 101

Hands on learning:

Missing a button? A small tear in your favorite shirt? Sewing 101 teaches the basic skills needed to repair clothing and make simple fixes through teaching simple stitches, giving participants the confidence to extend the life of items they already own. 

Why it matters:

Many perfectly wearable clothes are discarded because of repairs that take only a few minutes. Learning to sew is not only a practical life skill but also an easy way to reduce waste, save money, and make clothing last longer.

Eco Bricking

Workshop Snapshot:

What if your plastic waste could become part of something useful? This workshop introduces eco-bricking, a process of packing non-recyclable plastics into plastic bottles that can later be used in community projects and creative building applications. 

Significance of the process:

The United States generates roughly 42 million metric tons of plastic waste every year, and much of it cannot be recycled through traditional systems. Eco-bricking provides a simple, hands-on way to keep plastic out of landfills while encouraging participants to rethink how they use and dispose of everyday plastics. 

Paper Reimagined

Workshop Scope:

Turn yesterday's paper into tomorrow’s masterpiece. Participants will learn how to make handmade paper as they utilize recycled paper to create personalized junk journals that are both meaningful and sustainable.

The Creative Spark:

Paper is one of the most recycled materials, yet millions of sheets end up in landfills each year. There is an environmental cost of creating virgin paper, specifically deforestation and water usage. This workshop encourages participants to look beyond single use through repurposing paper, giving it a second life while discovering the creativity and mindfulness that comes with handmade journaling. 

Recycle and Composting 101

What you will learn:

Recycling isn’t always as simple as tossing something into a green bin. This workshop breaks down the basics of recycling and composting, helping participants understand what belongs where, avoid common mistakes, and make everyday habits more sustainable. 

The Inspiration:

Although many recyclable materials are collected only about 35% are ultimately processed and reused. Small actions such as sorting materials correctly or composting food scraps can make a meaningful difference in reducing waste and keeping valuable resources in circulation. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the event or signing up for a workshop, please visit our registration page: 

Remake The Future: A Repair and Upcycling Extravaganza

All workshops are free with materials provided. Spots are limited, so sign up soon!