Carnival Shenanigans!

Inspired by the idea of "make do and mend" Sassy decided to produce last minute carnival costumes entirely from reusing and recycling materials. A colour theme of green, gold, cream and pink was decided on and a few weeks was spent collecting any items in these colours. The day before the main Ryde procession we gathered to make the costumes. With chair covers, plastic bottles, table decorations and bottle tops donated by Bar 74, some charity shop finds and collecting bits and bobs the creating began. Plastic bottles and newspaper were transformed into colourful flowers; lampshades, paper cups and ribbon became headdresses; net curtains, sheets and bubble wrap were revamped into skirts; chair covers remodelled as vests and turbans.

Our efforts were rewarded by achieving third place in the Main Procession and first place in the Illuminated Procession. A fun way to promote the importance of reusing and recycling. The Sassy Make Do and Mend group meet fortnightly at 7pm in Bar 74, Ryde. Anyone who is interested in meeting people over skill sharing to repair and embellish clothing or just doodle on denim is welcome to come along.

Photo by Cllr Karen Lucioni