Upcycling, a unique expertise
Upcycling relies on the ability to innovate, solve technical problems, and constantly adapt the design. One must know how to analyze recovered materials, their condition and durability, and adapt techniques accordingly, which requires real material expertise.
Upcycling involves many key stages; between sorting, material preparation, cleaning, cutting, and assembly, these steps require time and essential expertise, resulting in higher production costs.
A truly upcycled piece often keeps a sign of its former life, such as an original seam or an irregularity.
To ensure the viability of the pieces, the selection of upcycled materials must be very precise and adapted to the final product.
THE CHECKLIST TO ENSURE A PRODUCT IS TRULY UPCYCLED:
-
The piece has a unique character
-
Stocks are limited
-
The brand is transparent and indicates the original source of the textile
-
The brand displays one or more ethical labels
-
Prices are relatively high
Who coined the term upcycling?
The term upcycling was coined by American engineer Reiner Pilz, who stated in 1994 to the German magazine Salvo: "Recycling is what I call 'down-cycling'. What we need is 'up-cycling', where old products are given more value, not less."
At JADICE, we mainly transform denim, known for its diversity of shades, which can be found across all our bags. Each one has workwear details such as flat-felled seams, old pockets, and zigzag stitching, all while being worn in by time.
To ensure their durability, each bag is heat-bonded after cutting, which helps to reinforce the denim and ensure the bag holds its shape over time. This is a skill we have developed with our partner workshops, allowing us to offer unique and well-thought-out designs.
The material is weathered from its first life; each crafted product is unique and reveals itself through its character and authenticity.
Even if upcycling is a methodical process, it remains a winning solution for the environment since everything is reused and recreated; nothing is wasted!
