Repurposing Used Apparel: Techniques For Creating New Garments From Recycled Clothing

Abstract

This study was to examined the repurposing of used apparel: techniques for creating new garments from recycled clothing. Purposive sampling technique was used to sample twenty (20) participants for the study. The data for this study was gathered through an interview guide the responses were then analysed qualitatively. It was revealed that the quality and attractiveness of the fabric constitutes factors for repurposing of used apparel. The review of the results from the twenty (20) participants demonstrated that factors such as environmental benefits, perceived quality, safety, risks, emotions, and individual differences influence consumer acceptance of products made from recycled materials. The findings from this research study therefore contribute to knowledge regarding techniques for creating new garments from recycled clothing in Ghana on a large scale. It is recommended that the government embarks on public education on the benefits of repurposing of used apparel and to encourage patronage of these products. This will eventually create job opportunities thereby reducing the unemployment challenges the nation is facing. Laws regarding the importation of second-hand clothing should be flexible and well regulated such that Ghana will not be a dumping ground for such goods.