7.18.2012

The Seamless Pledge

While I started sewing in 2008, it was not until this year that I really started sewing regularly and paying closer attention to construction and detail.  Now that I understand more about how a garment is should be made and quality and ethics are each of high importance, I have found myself increasingly disappointed with ready-to-wear offerings.

In fact, I realized in early May that I had not purchased any store-bought clothing items since sometime in 2011 and since May, I have only purchased three garments.


It was also just after this realization that I became aware of the Seamless Pledge.  (Somehow, I'd missed out on the fun at the start of the year.)  It seemed it was drawing to a close so, I didn't officially sign up.  But, the inspiring Elena has since renewed her pledge and it seems others are as well.  This time, I'm joining in.

I'm officially signing my Seamless Pledge!

I, Jennifer, take the Seamless pledge until the end of 2012. I will abstain from buying any* new clothes until the end of my pledge. I will instead find new ways to wear what I already own, purchase second-hands goods, or create my own clothes, instead of partaking in disposable fashion.

* I will allow myself to continue purchasing ready-to-wear unmentionables, though I have made it a goal to make a few of my own by the end of the year.

So, there you have it!  Better late than never, right?  Goodbye shopping malls, hello sewing machine! (and ebay, and vintage shops, and crochet hooks...)

Have you joined in?  x

Don't forget - my stop on the Pattern Pyramid Giveaway ends on Saturday!

10 comments:

  1. Thanks for bringing this up. It is a wonderful idea and I have made my pledge as well. I hope my Fabrish stash will disapper so I will be able to buy new fabrics without guilt feeling ;-)

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    1. Hooray! Ooo, yes. I'm hoping to dwindle (and replenish) mine as well.

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  2. What an intriguing pledge. This is the first I've heard of it. I will ponder this and consider joining in. It would definitely be a challenge for me as I love clothes in any way shape or form. Just between you and me, I just ordered a new top a few hours ago. Bad Pam, bad Pam! :) It would, however, give me a great excuse (and additional $$$) to purchase more fabric.

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    1. If you did want to participate you could tailor the length to you and/or allow exceptions. I don't think anyone would hold it against you if you decide its not for you though :-)

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  3. Very interesting. Like you - I realized how poorly garments are made. However, I wear white tees 4 - 5 days a week with a print cotton skirt. I have 3 dogs and rarely remember to change before cooking. I go through white tees like they are free! So, while I make alot of my clothing, I think I'll keep buying white tees. g

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    1. I can't blame you for not giving that up. I couldn't imagine trying to sew so many white tees! That'd be no fun!

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  4. I joined back in May I think - this has been really easy so far, plus I have extra time not being wasted in the malls hopelessly trying things on!! I have pledged until the end of the year, when the sales are on and I may pick up some cheap basics.

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    1. Yes, that's true. Shopping takes so much time! More time for family, friends, and sewing - bonus! End-of-year is a great time to pick up nice basics at a good price. I may do that as well.

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  5. I'm sure you'll be able to pull this off with great style and I look forward to picking up any tips you may wish to share on the making of the unmentionables....

    I tend to spend much time in my heavy-duty jeans (more than ever this year, as it's been too cold for my summery makes) so the pledge is not for me right now. But I agree with you and Busy Lizzie that's it's so liberating not to be wasting time in malls/changing rooms. Don't miss that at all.

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    1. Thank you, Marianna! That's very kind of you. I'll certainly share any tips I'm come across.

      I can certainly understand your not choosing to participate. I've never made jeans and can't imagine making a wardrobe full of them! I do hope it warms up for you soon though, so you can wear some of your lovely summer garments.

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