Innovation Challenge Winner!

Spokane Zero Waste launched ReCraftLab, an upcycled goods brand in 2024. Our premier items are a large tote and an event-sized wristlet which came to life through a partnership with the Museum of Arts and Culture, Jose Angel, graphic artist and waste reduction enthusiast and designer Beth LaBar of CoverMeCarryMe.

We asked you, the SZW audience, to help us imagine what else we can make with vinyl billboards and banners.  We received many great ideas and we wish we could pick them all, but the rules are there’s just one winner.  So a big CONGRATULATIONS to Meg Lybbert for her submission of storage totes.  Meg’s idea was inspired by large totes made for storing holiday decor such as wreaths and reusable Christmas trees. We see potential for other uses that would typically be made of new materials.  Keep an eye on our socials and this newsletter to learn what develops.

“We only have one planet Earth and I strongly believe it’s in the best interest of each of us to protect it. Reducing waste is something we can do at all ages and at individual and household levels. I’m grateful for what Spokane Zero Waste does to promote waste reduction techniques and educate the public.”

-Meg Lybbert

Submission Guidelines

Waste is a growing global crisis. We need solutions that mimic natural ecosystems where waste from one part of the system becomes a resource for another creating a circular flow of resources rather than the current linear model of take, make & dispose.

"Upcycling" is the process of creatively transforming waste materials into new products. Upcycling is different from "Recycling" in that it doesn't require breaking down the original material into a raw form.

  • This innovation challenge asks you to design an upcycled product using old vinyl banners.  The item you design should have a specific purpose, fulfill a need in a unique and creative way and be designed to be produced using standard commercial sewing practices and equipment. 

  • Your design can include other flexible and textile based materials, but should be constructed of at least 50% vinyl. 

  • Submissions can be written descriptions, concept drawings or photos/videos of physical prototypes or other examples.  No more than 3 images per submission, image size 200MB or less. Limit 2 submissions per person/team.

  • Samples of the vinyl materials available at Art Salvage, 610 E North Foothills Dr, Spokane, WA 99207. Map

  • The winning design will receive a $100 cash prize , generously provided by Downtown Spokane Partnership, and be considered for production by the ReCraftLab design team. 

  • *Disclosure - your submission gives SZW copyright privileges and the right to reproduce, distribute and/or sell products based on the design. Rights are not exclusive.