We have reopened at Shed 7D. We are currently limiting numbers working in the shed due to COVID-19 restrictions. If you wish to come and work on your own upcycling textile projects ($3/hour), or volunteer with us, please book in by texting Cathy on 0411 434 013
Face masks – We are now producing cloth face masks for purchase. We offer double layer cotton face masks for $12 each, and triple layer cotton and silk masks for $20 each (plus postage).
There is also a free pattern for a cloth mask, and details of a kit – $6 or $9 (plus postage) in our Kits and Resources page.
Hours – Our regular hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 10am – 5pm, and Saturdays, 1-5pm. Workshops and classes are also held at the shed outside these hours.
In December 2019 we received a My Community Project grant from NSW government. This has allowed us to purchase new sewing machines and overlockers for our members, volunteers and visitors, and run half price workshops, all proudly funded by NSW government.
Upcycle Newcastle is changing the way we see clothing and textile waste. Upcycling is taking products that would otherwise be disposed of and re-imagining them as a starting point for something new, beautiful or useful.
Our History – In mid 2018, Upcycle Newcastle moved into Shed 11, 50 Clyde Street, Hamilton North, a shared space with a number of other groups and businesses including the Share Shop, Newcastle Men’s Shed, Sparkhaus and Your Food Collective.
In June 2019, we moved into Shed 7D, still at 50 Clyde Street.
Our shed is used for workshops, classes and events, and as a work space for members and visitors to do their own clothing and textile upcycling. Upcycle Newcastle volunteers also use the space to prepare materials for workshops we conduct in schools, such as our T-shirt rag rug workshops. We also make a range of products from old jeans, t-shirts and other textile waste that are sold to support our facilities and work. Please drop in and check us out if you would like to volunteer with us.
Upcycle Newcastle is building a thriving upcycling community in Newcastle. Our workshops and classes draw a diverse and creative bunch of people dedicated to making beautiful and useful things from what others discard. The results are often quite impressive (ballgown from discarded jeans anyone?) and the process is very satisfying.
Join the discussion on our Facebook group and check out photos of past events by following the links below.
Upcycle Newcastle has received support from City of Newcastle through their Community Assistance Grants.
Become a member of Upcycle Newcastle
Becoming a member is a great way to support our work. With a strong membership base we are able to maintain our space and expand our reach in the community through our teaching and workshop program. It is now only $20 to join!
Membership of Upcycle Newcastle includes:
- 10 Upcycle Newcastle dollars to purchase materials for upcycling (e.g., Jeans for $1, T-shirts for 50c) from Shed 7D
- The chance to sell your upcycled creations through us (20% commission payable)
- Membership of Transition Newcastle
Membership of Upcycle Newcastle is due on July 1 each year. Membership for 2020/21 is $20 and is payable by cash or direct debit.
Complete a membership form to join Upcycle Newcastle and Transition Newcastle.
How to pay membership
You can either pay cash in person at the Upcycle Newcastle space in Shed 7D (50 Clyde Street, Hamilton North) or pay it into our bank account (please add “Mbr” and your last name as the description).
Newcastle Permanent
Account Name: Transition Newcastle Inc
BSB: 650300
Account number: 532 644 608
PHOTOS FROM PAST EVENTS
The Circle of Waste Community Rag Rug
Mayfield Better Block, May 2016
Shirts and Skirts Workshop, April 2016
Chair Upcycling Day, April 2016