We wanted to take a moment to share some of our closing thoughts and pics from the Downtown Upcycle ThrowDown. In a nutshell, we are thrilled with how the event went in every way: quality of pieces, attendance, energy, sponsors, volunteers, and more. As a new event at a brand new space, there were the expected “challenges” along the way, but the event itself exceeded our expectations.
Some thank-you’s are certainly in order – to our sponsors Northwest Recycling, Hatch, Kulshan Brewing, Kombucha Town, and Rocket Donuts. Each of you was essential to the event turning out as it did. Our music was provided by DJ Birdman, who was able to capture the exact feel we were hoping for. It was a joy to partner with the folks at Lydia Place/Wise Buys and Downtown Bellingham Partnership on this event. Such a great crew. And last but not least, thank you to the artists. Your creative energy is what drove this event. The level of quality of each of your pieces was impressive, and highlighted the level of skill and creativity that we have in our community waiting to be tapped into!
As with all of our “Challenge” events, we hope this inspires people to look at discarded materials with fresh eyes… to realize that there are many uses and many lives in our trash well before it heads to the landfill. There were some beautiful garments on display at this events, all of which were diverted from the waste stream and upcycled into what you saw.
If you ever need inspiration, visit us! Our shop has a ton of ideas for how and what to upcycle. Or… join us for our next Challenge!

Wise Buys/Lydia Place crew: Nancy Long, Emily O’Connor, and Shultzie Willows

The Ragfinery Booth!

The crowd ate every single donut hole from Rocket Donuts. Amazing art makes people hungry…

Our fantastic pourers of Kulshan and Kombucha Town goodness: Tim and Lizzie Crandall

Our fantastic DJ Birdman of GMB Entertainment. DJ Birdman provided a perfect vibe for the show.

Graham Shodda and “John” (Deer): winner of both People’s Choice and Jury’s selection for non-wearable item. Congrats, Graham!