Okay, this is one of the reasons I love Etsy. Well, besides the fact that I sell stuff there. Because I can find original, practical, affordable, and way cool gifts like this one.

This used to be a guy’s shirt. Now it’s an apron. This has so much going for it: the dark blue plaid means it’s not going to show every stain it gets. It’s washable. It’s practical if you cook. Wouldn’t you rather wear this refashioned, fun, useful apron while you’re cooking, and not get olive oil on your best jeans or dress-you-wore-to-work? And, major plus, it’s CUTE.

And it’s refashioned: a double-bonus major plus. Judy, the owner of the wonderful Sew It Was shop on Etsy, has made it the focus of her shop: she takes old garments and gives them new life. New FUN life. New useful life.

Also, if I might point out, super affordable life. These are all pluses I wanted to mention.

But most of all, I like this garment – and I could use it – and I bet you know a couple other people who would love it!

Okay, you know I love upcycling and recycling and refashioning – it just makes sense to me. But it can take an artist to make it work well. Well today I found an artist like that 🙂

Aren’t these pieces wonderful? I love the detailing with the coordinated fabrics, the serged finish on each swatch of fabric, and the skill she’s used in building these pieces.

And of course, there’s the all-important fact that she’s designed and made these with fabrics and garments that were discarded throwaways. Like I said – it take an artist to see the beauty and create these. The artist is Susan Temple of MargoSue Studio on Etsy. She’s got some great work in her shop – and her prices are so reasonable it’s almost scandalous. Go shopping!

P.S. Note for people who don’t sew – no, it is not easier to build new garments from upcycled fabrics or garments. It takes more skill, not less! Take it from someone who does sew. I appreciate this work!