News

Welcome to our news page, where we share the latest stories, updates, resources, and insights from Roots to Renewal. Here, you'll find articles on our sustainable fashion initiatives, community projects, and more. Stay informed about how we're working together to create a greener future through creativity and collaboration.

Whether you're interested in learning about new techniques in upcycling or natural dyeing or want to stay updated on our crowdfunding campaigns and partnerships—this is the place to be. 

Funding News!! Awards for All - May 2025

Great News! Roots to Renewal has Secures Funding to run this years pilot initiative!

We’re absolutely over the moon to share that Roots to Renewal has secured the big funding boost we’ve been aiming for from National Lottery Awards for All! This incredible support means we can finally get our pilot project off the ground across Doncaster-creating vibrant, biodiverse natural dye gardens and running hands-on workshops in planting, natural dyeing, sewing, and upcycling.

This funding is a game-changer for us, opening the door to connect communities deeply with nature and sustainable fashion while nurturing creativity, biodiversity, and wellbeing. We can’t wait to share this journey with you-stay tuned for upcoming events, ways to get involved, and all the fun ahead!

Fashion Fusion Meets Innovation:

Naturally Dyed Red Dress Featured in Doncaster Gallery Exhibition

We’re excited to celebrate the creative achievements of Estelle Pearce from Fashion Fusion CIC, who has been involved in The Album Project through Right Up Our Street Doncaster. As part of this inspiring community initiative, Estelle was commissioned to create a naturally dyed red dress and jacket, which are now featured in the Balby Bridge exhibition at Doncaster Gallery, Library and Museum, running from 22nd April to 22nd May.

The outfit was developed to closely match an AI-generated design created by Sammy, with Estelle using natural dyes to achieve a vibrant shade of red. The entire process blended digital innovation and traditional craft: the design and pattern were first created digitally using CLO3D, before Estelle handmade the final pieces. This project not only highlights the possibilities of sustainable fashion but also demonstrates how digital tools and natural processes can come together to bring creative visions to life.

The exhibition showcases this work alongside many other community projects, reflecting the power of collaboration, creativity, and sustainability in Doncaster’s cultural scene. Be sure to visit and see Estelle’s stunning naturally dyed red dress and jacket as part of this unique display.

Funding News!! - April 2025

Roots to Renewal Takes Root - 28/03/2025

We are thrilled to announce that we’ve officially begun our collaborative journey of creating natural dye gardens for Doncaster communities! 🌱✨

Bex and Angela of Plantaura, Susan of Artfelt, and Estelle of Fashion Fusion came together with family, friends, and members of the Edlington Pitwood community to start planting seeds that will soon be distributed across Doncaster. This marks the beginning of a truly inspiring project aimed at connecting people with nature, sustainability, and creativity.

As part of this initiative, we’re also establishing a dedicated Natural Dye Garden at the Wellbeing Social Garden in Denaby. This space will serve as a hub for learning, creativity, and community connection.

Stay tuned as we grow together and bring vibrant natural colours to life across Doncaster! 🌿💚

#RootsToRenewal #NaturalDyeGardens #Sustainability #CommunityGardens

Roots to Renewal Celebrates Partnership with Age UK Sheffield - 04/03/2025

We are delighted to announce our partnership with Age UK Sheffield, a leading organisation dedicated to supporting older adults in the community. This collaboration marks an exciting step forward for our Roots to Renewal project, which aims to promote sustainability and creativity through innovative textile practices.

A special thank you to Teresa, CEO of Age UK Sheffield, for warmly welcoming Estelle of Fashion Fusion CIC to their facilities. The visit included a tour of their shop on Eccleshall Road and their vibrant spaces at Hillsborough Park, featuring the Pavilion, Bradbury Makers' Shed, Gardens, and the Depot Bakery café. These facilities offer a range of activities and services that enhance the lives of older adults in Sheffield, from creative workshops to dementia-friendly programs.

We are particularly grateful for the generous donation of unsaleable clothing and textiles, which will be repurposed in our upcoming workshops. This contribution not only supports our mission to reduce waste but also highlights the shared commitment to sustainability and community engagement between our organisations.

As we move forward with this partnership, we look forward to exploring new opportunities for collaboration and growth. Together, we aim to foster a more sustainable and creative community that benefits everyone involved.

Discover Age UK Sheffields website here: Welcome to Age UK Sheffield

Age UK Sheffield's mission is to ensure that no older person in Sheffield faces poverty or loneliness. They provide essential services and resources for those over 50, including dementia support, free advice & information, digital support and housing & income assistance. Their charity shops, stocked with generously donated items from our community, help generate vital funds that directly support our work.