Robyn Trigge makes one-of-a-kind handbags out of fabric she finds in Op Shops from her home in Tea Tree.

After a chance conversation with a Ten Lives Op Shop volunteer, Robyn discovered that large quantities of fabric and unsaleable clothing sat in bins at the Ten Lives Argyle St Op Shop, overlooked by customers.

Having developed an interest in recycling, she took the opportunity to use the fabric to create something new. Robyn’s skill and eye for detail is applied to each bag she makes; each lined and featuring recessed zips, bag feet, and inside pockets. The bags, which she refers to as ‘the ladies’, each sports its own unique character and embellishments.

‘I do a different front and back. Because that way you get two bags in one, you can reverse it’, she said. But there’s a lot more to each piece of fabric than meets the eye.

When Robyn’s mum passed away in 2016, they had to clear out her unit in Brisbane. Her mum grew up at the end of the depression, so it was only natural that she was reluctant to throw anything away. Robyn found it heartbreaking disposing of her belongings.

‘These were things mum had valued and loved. She wasn’t rich, but it meant something to her’, she said.

It was from that experience that Robyn’s interest in upcycling developed. Since retiring last year, Robyn has reengaged her hobby of sewing and put that interest into practice in the bags she creates which combine recycled and new materials.

‘The beautiful thing about these bags is that the pieces from the Ten Lives Op Shop give it character’, she said.

Much of the material such as placemats, doilies, and quilting fabric that arrive at Op Shops is from people who were in a similar situation to Robyn in 2016, and it means a lot to her that she can show that it can be upcycled into something beautiful and usable.

‘It makes the relatives feel better, and it honours the person who had kept it for all those years’, Robyn said.

Robyn hopes that her projects will inspire others to think about recycling and where their fabric comes from.

‘Modern fabrics aren’t as good. You don’t have to go to big stores. The cheap stuff just doesn’t compare for durability’, she said.

Robyn encourages other sewing enthusiasts to visit their local op shop to see what quality fabrics can be brought to life once more. Robyn’s handbags have been available in stores around Hobart but are currently available from her direct. Robyn also makes custom designs and can be contacted on 0415 063 716.

Words and Images: Rich East