MikeyJProd Presents: Up-cycled Merch & Circular Apparel Design

Upcycled merch is taking existing or discarded materials and transforming them into something new, useful, and often more valuable instead of throwing them away, and its also one of the most tangible ways I turn values into action.

Rather than producing new apparel from scratch, I work with thrifted clothing, old or unused artist merchandise, reclaimed garments, and donated textiles to give them new life through fully custom sewing and hand-burned, hand-printed screen prints & designs. This approach reduces waste, extends the life of materials already in circulation, and challenges the industry’s reliance on constant new production. In addition, most of the time, a considerable amount of the proceeds is donated to non-profit partners. Each piece is designed not just to be worn, but also to promote a culture that is rooted in care, creativity, and accountability.

For artists, venues, and community partners, upcycled merch becomes a way to align fundraising and fan engagement with sustainability goals, transforming what might otherwise be excess inventory into meaningful, high-impact items.

And on top of everything else, this work taught me that art, sustainability, and even life don’t require perfection, just presence :)