Introducing SFW Hub: Isle of Sheppey

Our Isle of Sheppey Hub is led by Jade of Lila-Rose Upcycled Clothing, a brand which creates clothes and accessories from the discarded and unloved. Using reclaimed wool and discarded plastic, Jade’s work has evolved from a passion for mending, experimenting and combining textile techniques with upcycling to create limited edition clothes and accessories. 

Jade’s unique bags are made from ‘plarn’ (plastic yarn) or discarded clothing which is made from long continuous strips which are then knitted or crocheted into a strong and versatile accessory. Using a similar technique, Jade crafts jewellery from reclaimed plastic bottle lids. How ingenious! 

Lila-Rose also offers patterns which are crafted with a unique and contemporary spin with a vintage style. The range includes adult and childrens clothes, and a combination of knitting and crochet stitches with UK terminology instructions.

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Jade says:

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“Textiles is in my blood, and I have gained much of my skills from a group of influential women in my life, who have handed down not only their skills and knowledge to me. I remember as a tiny girl watching my Nan make bridal dresses in her spare room and teaching me to sew on an industrial machine.  I spent hours with my mum knitting and admiring different types of wool and the manipulation of their texture. I have also been influenced by my aunt’s love for embroidery and patchwork and even my surrogate Nan has helped me to decipher many crochet patterns!

I love visible mending, especially working on a loom. I feel it shows the journey of a piece of clothing and the love someone has regardless of the monetary value, but the connection to a piece. I use only reclaimed yarn for mending and all my knit/crochet wear and upcycled denim is made from reclaimed materials.”

Jade’s creations are available on her Etsy store here.