MAKE IT ZERO WASTE

With a greater understanding of the threats our planet is up against and what we can do to make a difference, many of us are taking more steps towards living an eco-friendlier life. We recycle, try to cut down our carbon emissions, and give fast fashion a swerve as much as possible, but how can we bring this sustainable ethos to our sewing?

At the end of a project we’re often left with offcuts and scraps of fabric and, although most sewists will try and find a use for it somehow, much will end up simply being thrown away. The solution? Using zero waste patterns. Liz Haywood (), the author of explains: “Zero waste sewing is using 100% of the fabric, with no scraps or waste. The fabric can be used all in one garment or spread across several. The pattern pieces are designed to fit perfectly within the perimeter of the fabric, like a giant jigsaw puzzle. It’s an exciting pattern making challenge: to make a new garment with