In today's fashion landscape, sustainability is a key consideration for conscientious consumers. Upcycling, the art of repurposing old items into new treasures, offers a creative and eco-friendly solution. If you have leftover fabric or old garments lying around, don't toss them away just yet! With a bit of creativity and some sewing skills, you can prevent them from ending up as waste and turn them into a super cool vest. 

Here are some upcycling ideas to inspire your next project:

1. Patchwork revamp

Dive into the world of patchwork by incorporating fabric scraps or old garments into your vest. Cut various shapes and sizes of fabric pieces and stitch them together to create a unique patchwork design. Experiment with colors, patterns, and textures to craft a piece that reflects your personal style.

2. Elegant embroidery

Who doesn’t love delicate embroidery details. Use embroidery floss to embellish pockets, lapels, or the back panel with intricate designs. Whether you choose floral motifs, geometric patterns, or custom monograms, embroidery adds a touch of sophistication to your upcycled garment. 

3. Denim makeover 

Repurpose old jeans or denim jackets by cutting out panels and attaching them to your garment for a rugged look. Add studs or decorative stitching to customize your denim accents and create a fashion-forward statement piece. You can even make your bias binding from the jeans, like @sewsewlindsey did for her Benly vest or mix it up with different fabrics and a colorful zipper like @os_en_veer did on her Benner vest. 

4. Functional enhancements 

Make your vest or waistcoat even more practical by adding extra pockets, D-ring attachments, or adjustable straps. Incorporate reclaimed materials like leather scraps or hardware from old bags to enhance its utilitarian appeal. These functional upgrades not only improve usability but also add a touch of industrial-chic style. @sewing_maaike did such a great job on her utalitarian Benly vest. 

5. Vintage Charm 

Embrace the timeless allure of vintage fashion by infusing your garment with retro-inspired details. Add vintage buttons, lace trim, or embroidered appliqués for a nostalgic touch. Distress the fabric or use tea staining techniques to achieve an aged patina and evoke the charm of bygone eras. @kiki_h used some vintage bedsheets to make the pockets on this Benner vest  for her little boy. 

6. New color palettes 

Mix and match leftover fabrics in different colors for the pockets and be amazed by the new color palettes you can come up with. @studiomeez mixed it up brilliantly on this Benner vest. 
 

7. Cosy as a blanket 

Use a vintage bedspread or old woolen blankets to make a cosy vest that keeps you warm on chilly moments.If you don’t have this lying around at your house, you will definitely find one at a local thrift store, on second hand sites or just ask around in your neighborhood and/or family. 

Are you amazed by the potential of your fabric waste? It’s incredible! Don’t waste another minute and let’s get started on a masterpiece that reflects your unique style. 

With our digital vest patterns, you can get started in just a few clicks. The downloads will drop instantly in your mailbox after purchase. Print the pages in the comfort of your own home and let the sewing party begin! 

Check them out here: 

• Benly vest for women
• Benner vest for kids
• Benson vest for men

You can find even more upcycled vest inspiration on our Pinterest board.