Sewing has always been one of my favorite creative outlets because it teaches patience, problem-solving, and resourcefulness. There’s something so fulfilling about wearing the finished piece (or especially seeing a friend wear it)! Over time, I’ve realized that sewing isn’t just about fabric and thread. It’s about finding creative solutions when things don’t go as planned, adapting designs on the fly, and transforming what you have into something you never imagined could exist. For my mashup-inspired work, I’m submitting a Renaissance costume I created from a mix of salvaged and new materials. It started as a way to challenge myself as a sewer, and to use existing materials and minimize waste. But, as most projects do, it became a reflection of who I am: constantly piecing things together, reinventing, and finding beauty in the unexpected. This costume blends old and new in almost every way. The design takes cues from historical patterns but has a modern edge. I used upcycled materials in combination with new ones. A thrifted shirt was dyed, and one sleeve removed became a glove. Fabric was salvaged from a local store that saves textiles from the landfill. I reused scraps from past projects and sourced new fabric for the hero element. Even though so many reused materials came into play, the final piece feels completely new. It also plays with the balance between feminine and masculine. The fitted bodice has strong lines and pattern, made with delicate fabrics. I wanted to merge strength and elegance to create a kind of satisfying tension. This project reminded me why I love creating. It’s personal, imperfect, and full of my fingerprint. Like the “mad genius” spirit behind this scholarship, it celebrates experimentation and the idea that creativity often comes from reimagining what’s already there and letting curiosity lead the way.