Kendra Brea Cooper
A clothing swap is a get-together where everyone brings their nice but unwanted clothing, and swaps if for stuff the other guests have brought. Its a great way to get free outfits, recycle clothing, and avoid the stores. Ask around your community for help with the items on the list because this party is about sharing tools and skills too!! Here are 10 things you need to have the best clothing swap on the block.
Make invitations asking your guests to clean out their closets and bring over the stuff they don't wear any more. Have a place to put all the clothing, like in a pile on the floor or on a rack if you have one. It can be free shop experience, and there will certainly be something for everyone.
Use your sewing machine or ask a friend to bring one along. Some clothing may not fit properly, so guests might want to alter the items for fit and creativity. This party isn't just about swapping clothing, but also swapping skills, so share knowledge about sewing techniques and fitting techniques.
Fabric paint is another fun item to have at a clothing swap. Paint gives guest the opportunity to turn the clothing they pick into something amazing. They can paint a shirt for themselves or as a gift for a friend.
You can find pre-made stencils or make your own with some cardboard and a x-acto knife. Stencils are perfect for creating beautiful art on clothing, and will personalize any shirt. Guests can create anything from a simple design to a detailed band shirt.
If you or a friend has silk screen equipment, definitely include it in the clothing swap. Silk screens create professional-looking images on clothing. Ask around your community for all the items on this list, because its about sharing and recycling.
Iron on Patches for fabric are another fun way to re-create clothing. You might be able to find them at your local thrift store for cheap, or maybe a friend has some sitting in their craft basket. They look amazing on jean jackets.
There are people out there who are still interested in Bedazzling their stuff (yes, they still exist). If you have one laying around, or if a friend does, include the bling for the friend who likes to stand out.
Have some extra sewing supplies on hand for sewing without a machine. This stuff is good for touch-ups or patching up any holes.
Have some inspiration on hand in the form of magazines and sewing books. Your guests can look through them for tips and ideas. They're great for getting the blood pumping and the hands moving (on the sewing machine that is).
Don't forget to pull out that old box of cool buttons. Buttons can take a piece of clothing a long way, even making it look brand new (again). Buttons breathe new life into old coats and sweaters.
Pop culture and all that ideology sitting in the blind spot. Also crafts.
