‘So many things that you can do’: From upcycling to alterations, Heidelberg seamstress shows variety of talents

Your dresser drawer has a limited amount of space. So maybe it’s time to say goodbye to that Pink Floyd or Pitt Panther shirt you haven’t worn in years.

If so, say hello to Kait.

Heidelberg resident Kaitlyn Alyce thrives on converting discarded fabrics into new creations, taking recycling a step further to what’s called upcycling: using her sewing skills to produce something that’s even better than the original.

“My sister gave me the idea because that’s what she loves to do, also,” Alyce said, referencing fellow Chartiers Valley High School graduate Payton Ferris. “She helps me pick everything out. We’ll find things that otherwise would end up in a landfill and bring them back to life.”

Examples abound when Alyce sets up her Kait’s Craftations and Alterations at fairs and festivals around the region.

An aged Adidas tee becomes a handsome hoodie. A frayed “Friends” shirt fits right in with flannel.

And plenty of Pittsburgh-themed garments — sports teams, Mister Rogers, even a guide to speaking “Pittsburghese” — turn into higher-quality clothes.

Her inventory primarily comes from places that often mean the end of the line for what people stop wearing.

“There are a lot of gem thrift stores around the area,” Alyce explained. “My sister said, ‘We might as well try to save some of what’s decent and turn it into something new,’ and she helps me with that. We are really conscious about the environment.”

The seamstresses are compassionate, as well.

In June, Alyce hosted a two-day Angel Dress workshop in the Heidelberg Community Room, with participants — Payton and their brother, Max Ferris, included — helping provide comfort to bereaved family members by making gowns “for babies who leave this world too soon.”

Alyce reported the donation of 108 articles of clothing for the event, and 39 volunteers completing 142 bereavement dresses. She plans another session for January.

On behalf of the betrothed, she specializes in bridal alterations, ensuring that gowns fit as nearly perfectly as possible when women walk down the aisle.

And the wedding-related possibilities go beyond the bride.

“I love doing those projects. I’ve made a lot of, say, taking an old dress and turning it into a reception dress and a rehearsal dinner dress,” she said. “And I’ve done a lot of robes, taking Mom’s dress and turning it into a robe for the bride to get ready in on the big day. There are so many things that you can do.”

Since starting to sew at age 3 — “I’m self-taught” — she has earned certifications in the field and worked as an alterations department manager for David’s Bridal.

Regarding Kait’s Craftations and Alterations, she describes her work ethic as:

“Somebody who actually loves what they’re doing, and not just doing it.”

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/kaitscraftations.