Debbie Jackson upcycles t-shirts with striking ethnic polymer beads.
Debbie was wearing this version and she shows us how she turns her thrift store finds into fashionable, no-sew necklaces that can be wound around and worn long or short. She also makes a bracelet version with a toggle clasp.
Debbie and I both live in Ohio but we escaped the political intensity and headed to Kentucky last weekend. Thanks to Debbie for sharing her design and for rescuing the camera I left behind.
Ronna Sarvas Weltman ,
Lovely — Debbie’s art always makes me grin. I bet she can’t walk two feet without someone stopping her to exclaim over this scarf. T-shirt scarves are dangerously addictive to make. You can also buy tube-knit cotton at the fabric store and embellish it with fabric paint before cutting. Or sometimes I just paint it with bleach and get a sort of tie dye effect (but if you paint it with bleach, wash the fabric before making a scarf, because it can get a strong smell from the bleach). Tutorials all over the web — here’s a simple one: http://www.wholeliving.com/133536/recycled-craft-t-shirt-necklace?backto=true
rmkdesign ,
Debbie is just a delight–I was fortunate enough to meet her at the IPCA retreat, and her display was a joyful noise. She interprets traditional design into vivdly contemporary ways, and makes the most of the color explosion that is polymer. I love this combination–must go try!
Lorrene Baum-Davis ,
Oh, Debbie… I truly miss you sistah of my heart. Have a blast at Synergy next year. This new work of yours is so awesome…. Rock on!
Christine Damm ,
I love the way she turned the toggle into a focal. And it’s stretchy so you can customize the fit. Thanks for sharing this, Cynthia!
carissa ,
i love the idea of fabrid necklaces for the fall and winter. it just adds a layer of warmth and color. awesome work debbie!
Jan Montarsi ,
I’m always excited to see Debbie and her bright exciting work. I was lucky enough to end up with one of her Poker chips !! One of these days I hope she has a nearby workshop. ( Hint hint)
Cynthia your camera was on the raffle table I’m glad it found its way home and not as first prize !! Ps I won the Simple Slicer
Jan
Francie Owens ,
Way to go Debbie. I love, love, love your up-cycled necklaces. So, clever and beautiful.
Carol Lessans ,
Love this idea and Debbie’s beads are fab! Here is a video from Beads, Baubles and Jewels. My husband may soon be missing some t-shirts!