Upcycling - When the old turns into the new

By Emma WollweberNovember 13, 20259 min read

There are now several brands in Berlin that specialise in upcycled fashion. They transform old garments, surplus fabrics and textile remnants into new, unique designs, sending a strong message against fast fashion and wasteful consumption of resources. What is particularly exciting is how diverse the Berlin upcycling scene has become. From small studios that are just starting out to established labels that are attracting international attention. A colourful mix of creativity, sustainability and craftsmanship. Many of these brands value local production, fair working conditions and transparency throughout the entire supply chain. The result is unique pieces that are not only environmentally friendly but also stylistically unique. Labels such as MOOT, Haha you're ugly, Therapy and Sonnenkind (link to Instagram for each) show that fashion with history and character is becoming increasingly popular. This is especially true in a city like Berlin, which has always been a place for alternative ideas and creative experimentation.Upcycling is no longer just a trend here, but part of a larger movement towards more conscious consumption and sustainable design. Anyone looking for fashion in Berlin that is both aesthetically and ethically appealing will find an exciting alternative to mass production in the upcycling scene.

Upcycling Classes in Berlin

But it's not just designers and labels that are driving the trend. Berlin offers numerous opportunities for anyone who wants to get involved themselves. In various workshops, studios and sustainability centres, you can take part in upcycling courses and workshops where you can learn how to repair, redesign or completely reinterpret old clothes. It's not just about sewing, but also about creative thinking: for example, old jeans can be turned into a bag, and a discarded shirt into a new top. Upcycling is an invitation to rediscover the value of clothing, get creative and live a more conscious approach to fashion.

Upcycling Platforms

berlin textile coop. (link) is an open textile laboratory, a co-working space and a prototyping hub. Here, technology, knowledge and practice merge to form a creative laboratory. Various machines can be rented flexibly for your own upcycling or design projects, from industrial sewing machines and overlockers to plotters and embroidery machines. This allows designers or simply curious individuals to realise their ideas in a professional environment without having to invest in expensive equipment right away. In addition, berlin textile coop. sees itself as a community that promotes open exchange about sustainable production methods, material innovations and the circular economy. In addition to the pure use of the workshop, regular workshops and networking events are offered where people from the worlds of fashion, craftsmanship, design and technology can meet and learn from each other.

Upcycling Materials

A central idea of upcycling is to work with existing materials. Instead of consuming new fabrics or resources, existing materials are given a second life. Old textiles, scraps, fabric samples and even industrial stock become the basis for new designs. In Berlin, a vibrant scene has developed around this approach, bringing together places, initiatives and platforms that make sustainable materials accessible and promote creative work.

Kunst-Stoffe Berlin (link) is a non-profit project that collects used materials, passes them on at low cost and enables creative reuse in workshops, repair cafés and educational projects. The aim is to avoid waste, conserve resources and at the same time promote art, creativity and environmental awareness – a practical model for circular economy and sustainable urban culture.

Trash Galore (link) is a central platform for sustainable event management – with a focus on reuse, CO₂ reduction and transparent impact. It combines material cycles with social added value, supports event organisers in their sustainability strategy and provides sound life cycle assessments. Perfect for anyone who wants to make events more resource-efficient and recyclable.

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