Picture via "I am Upcycled Facebook"
I received audio messages from Migara via WhatsApp but unfortunately these MP3 audio files cannot be uploaded to blogger. So I attached a screenshot.
I have transcribed her answers and translated to English language.
Answer 1Hi, I’m Migara Alupathage, and I’m from Kandy. Thank you so much for selecting me for your feature article! I went to Vihara Maha Devi Balaka Viddyalaya in Kandy. I am an upcycling product designer, and I specialize in creating jewelry from tin cans, cardboard, and paper.
Answer 2
Yes, as a child, I always truly loved nature and the environment. However, I didn’t fully understand how to protect them at the time. It was more of a feeling and a connection to the world around me, but I didn’t have the knowledge how to preserve it. When I was in my youth, I began to understand the importance of sustainability and how I could make a difference.
Answer 3
In my younger years at school, we had extracurricular activities, one of which was crafting. I remember several instances when my creations were selected as the best craft, and I used to receive many school prizes. However, my parents were initially opposed to me working with so many materials, as they found themselves having to clean up the house more often! They told me to concentrate more on my school studies but my passion for cutting and gluing things never faded.
Answer 4
Most of the training I received was through the Sthree Foundation. They organized various seminars and invited foreign artists to hold sessions with us, which was a great learning experience. I remember one artist from Canada who taught us how to do Mosaic Crafts using broken tiles. It was a great experience and so much fun to learn.
Answer 5
I create jewelry from beer cans and tin cans. A friend of mine works at a restaurant, so every day after her shift, she brings me a huge pile of empty cans. Sometimes, when I'm walking on the road and spot any kind of tin can, I take them home. First, I wash them thoroughly. You need to have certain tools to make the product. Some of them are small scissor pair, gloves, hammer, center punch and earrings hooks. Step 1 is cut out shape of your design, Step 2 is smooth edges, Step 3 is punch a hole, step 4 is shape earrings and paint (if necessary) and seal. The last step is to attach the earrings to the hooks.
Answer 6
I market my upcycled products using a combination of Facebook, Instagram and craft fairs. These Social media platforms have been incredibly useful for showcasing my designs, connecting with eco-conscious buyers, and receiving direct orders.
In addition to online sales, I participate in craft fairs like Good Market and Can Can Market, where I can engage with customers in person.
Answer 7
In the past, I used to create wall hangings from waste materials, and the local market was my biggest buyers. People in my community appreciated sustainable pieces I created, and it was a unique product. They became quite popular at local craft fairs and markets.
As I expanded my work, I noticed that foreigners, especially those who are passionate about eco-friendly products, started buying a lot of my jewelry, particularly earrings made from tin cans and necklaces crafted from cardboard. These buyers were like unique designs and the fact that they were made from recycled materials. They appreciated the story behind each piece, which made my work even more meaningful to them.
Answer 8
If someone is interested in learning how to create their own DIY upcycled products, I would recommend starting with patience and dedication. The first product you make may not turn out perfectly, but that’s completely normal. You have to practice your skills several times, and gain the experience.
It’s important not to get discouraged by failures. Mistakes are part of the learning process. Keep making and improving with every piece you create.
I also believe that workshops, online tutorials, and community groups can be very helpful for beginners. And after going through many trials and errors, when you finally create a beautiful upcycled piece, the feeling of accomplishment is truly fantastic!
Answer 9
Yes, when I create upcycled items, I experience a deep sense of satisfaction. One of the greatest joys comes from transforming something that was once considered waste into something beautiful and useful. The process of taking discarded materials and giving them new life is incredible.
Beyond creativity, I find immense happiness in the environmental impact of my work. Knowing that I’m reducing waste and promoting sustainability gives me a sense of purpose. Every piece I create is a small step toward a more eco-friendly world, and that motivates me to keep going.
I also love the creative challenge that comes with upcycling. Each material is different, and I often have to experiment with techniques to find the best way to shape and design my products.
Lastly, the positive feedback from customers is incredibly rewarding. When people appreciate my work, wear my jewelry, or use my upcycled creations with pride I feel so much of satisfaction.
Answer 10
When you plan to create an upcycled craft, it’s important to always think ahead and plan carefully. This means considering not only the process of creating the item but also what to do with any leftover materials. It's crucial to plan for the disposal of these remnants in an environmentally responsible way.
Another key point is to avoid using polyethylene and plastic in your products. These materials are not only harmful to the environment but also difficult to recycle. Instead, focus on using sustainable materials that can be reused or recycled easily. This approach helps reduce waste, and ensures that your upcycled crafts are truly eco-friendly.
