As a kid, I saved everything…even Dorito crumbs in my bed. Not on purpose of course.

My junk drawer was my treasure chest, filled with things I just knew could be something someday. My tastes have evolved.

I’m no longer dumpster diving for fort-building materials—but that joy of discovering overlooked items and giving them new life? That’s still me.

One bonus of living in Japan: I get awesome (and FREE) fabric! And…I have too much.

When I moved here, my friend messaged me: do you want some Kimono fabric for your art?

Yes, please! How much does it cost?

Just pay the shipping.

My body tingled with excitement.

I didn’t know it, but heaps of kimono and obi are sitting collecting dust.

Rejected, stained, and smelly with must. BUT still gorgeous, and 100% full of potential.

Potentially is my magnet.

New things? Meh. Boring. Too easy.

Things tossed aside are just waiting to prove themselves worthy.

Am I a junk enabler? YOU BET!

But before you get images of my closets stuffed with old clothes, supplies, knick knacks, and paddywacks..stop right there. I have read and embraced Marie Kondo. Everything in my home sparks only joy. Gotcha.

The real reason I wear house slippers? There are a million tiny pieces of legos scattered throughout my house waiting to embed themselves into my feet (or be eaten by my toddler).

This does not spark joy.

But I have learned to prioritize my own junk…as a real adult does ;-)

Back to the fabric treasure. Traditional Japanese kimonos were designed to last generations. To be repurposed and definitely not wasted! They’re cut and sewn specifically for versatility and no wasted scrapes. That’s why they’re designed with rectangles instead of funky shapes that western clothing uses.

The Ultimate Lesson in Resourcefulness and Mottainai (no waste)

Kimonos were designed to last generations, crafted with care and built for reuse. Before they became trendy collectibles, kimonos embodied the concept of mottainai—a Japanese term for reducing waste and honoring the value in every material.

Here’s why kimonos are the ultimate sustainability icons:

Reusability: From clothing to household items, even cloth diapers (yes, really!).
Longevity: Crafted to be taken apart and re-sewn, they were built to last.
Minimal Waste: Every scrap served a purpose.

**In contrast, today’s fast fashion generates 92 million tons of textile waste annually. Upcycling kimonos feels like reclaiming a piece of that history while resisting throwaway culture.**

The Rejects

When I opened that box of kimonos, I was like a kid on Christmas morning. I started opening each one revealing intricate hidden patterns in the lining, embroideries and vivid colors.

Who wore these? For what purpose? Why were they not able to be sold or reused?

I secretly felt RICH for owning them.

They begged to be seen and heard…but I used to be loved, worn, and beautiful, they said to me.

Make it stand out

**It’s like this:**
**Selection:** I’m drawn to vibrant patterns but also love subtle neutrals for contrast.
**Blending Old and New:** I layer vintage kimono fabrics with my own hand-printed or digital textile designs to create art that merges printmaking, painting, collage, and quilting.
**Handcrafted Originals:** *Flowerescent Collection* brings nature’s vibrancy while giving these old kimonos a fresh purpose.

Art That Connects

Upcycling isn’t just about sustainability; it’s about meaning. Whether it’s a kimono or an old drawer knob, I love giving objects a second life. Art, like a well-made kimono, isn’t fleeting—it connects you to the past, present, and something enduring.

When you bring art into your life, ask yourself:

Does this bring meaning to my life?
Do I feel an emotional connection when I look at it?
Was it made with care and respect for its materials?

Explore the Flowerescent Collection. Each piece is unique, blending vibrant colors and thoughtful craftsmanship to bring depth to your space. It’s art that embraces your sophisticated adult self and the inner child screaming for more color.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What’s your favorite way to upcycle or give new life to old materials? Share your creations @ashleyrodriguezreed, and let’s inspire a more mindful—and fun—approach to art and life.

I’m a Collector of Junk…and it feels so good.