I’m volunteering this weekend at Maker Faire, which I can only describe as a perfect clash of art and science fair. There are people exhibiting everything from soy candles to robots, bracelets made from old 45s to a roomba that paints.

I’m working in the Swap-o-rama-rama, a “communal process of creative reuse…, the world’s largest clothing swap and creativity workshop.” If you bring some unwanted clothes, you can take away as much as you can carry. The whole area is lined with artists teaching you how to remake the clothes thru reconstruction, screen printing, embroidery, etc.. If you don’t know how to sew, say the word and they’ll have you behind the machine showing you the basics. I was consistently impressed with the creativity coming from the teachers and the people coming in to swap. They screen printed designs on fabric I’d never dream of (cashmere sweaters!) and with a few quick snips and stitches, tired clothes were reborn, and what’s the harm if it doesn’t work out… it’s free!

I am going back today and expect it to be a long day (full day of swapping and then tearing down), but can’t wait to see what inspires me. This has been a creative breath of fresh air, I would recommend it to anyone. And volunteering has allowed me to access all of this with minimal effort. The days are long, but look what I’m getting in return.