Recycled fabric scraps, gathered/donated by members of my community and spun by hand using a drop spindle.

Since 2011, I’ve conducted experiments in making my own handspun recycled fiber yarn. I collect scraps from textile manufacturers, seamstresses and artists in my own community. Then, I sort, join and twist with a very simple tool (a drop spindle) these pieces of ‘trash’ creating a continuous fiber, full of texture and potential. Giving these materials a new life cycle.

Up to 95% of textiles ending up in our landfills annually could be recycled. This yarn is an example of the solutions we can find. A symbol of transformation, community effort, and awareness. I’ve taught my grandparents, mother, sister, and friends, thus becoming a communal activity, a gathering of loving, working hands.

A few of the projects that have come out of this:

• #parejasdedeshecho (CURRENT, Puerto Rico + Barcelona)
• BALMASEDA x M.PATMOS Woolmark Prize
  (look 2: dickie, look 4: sweater + clutch)