Project Upcycle Call for Designers 2026

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PROJECT UPCYCLE 2026: CALL FOR DESIGNERS

Get ready to push your creative limits.

3S Artspace, in partnership with Recovergirl, invites applications to the 8th annual Project Upcycle Sustainable Design Challenge—a high-energy sustainable fashion design challenge and runway event.

This year’s theme is Transformation.

We’re introducing a more concept-driven challenge built around the theme of transformation. Designers will create a red carpet/runway-ready look that explores a central tension—where materials, form, and function evolve, collide, and transform in unexpected ways.

Think:

  • Structure to softness
  • Translucent to opaque
  • Utility meets glamour
  • Past life into present form
  • Or something entirely your own

Please note: constraints will be part of the challenge.

Not to limit you—but to sharpen your ideas, clarify your voice, and push your work further. Select details will be revealed to accepted designers. These may include a required shared element across all looks, limitations on materials, or other parameters designed to deepen the creative process.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT

Eight designers will be selected to participate in an immersive, fast-paced, 2.5-day design challenge at 3S Artspace in Portsmouth, NH.

Using a combination of upcycled garments and surplus materials, designers will conceptualize and construct a fully styled, gala worthy, runway look for a live audience.

Expect twists. Expect pressure. Expect momentum.  

You will likely be asked to:

  • Transform one form into another
  • Reveal something unexpected on the runway
  • Work within a defined material or design constraint
  • Prioritize technique, concept, and cohesion

This is not just about what you make—it’s about how you think.

 

WHY APPLY?

Project Upcycle is more than a competition—it’s a platform.

Designers gain:

  • A professionally produced runway show
  • Direct exposure to industry judges and a growing audience
  • New creative connections and collaborators
  • Documentation of their work (photo/video)
  • The opportunity to push their practice in a meaningful way

 

ABOUT THE COMPETITION

Who can apply?  Designers (and aspiring designers), ages 18+, currently residing in New England (ME, NH, VT, MA, CT, RI), with fewer than 5 consecutive years of professional experience. Students, self-taught designers, career changers, and emerging professionals are all encouraged to apply.

What is the challenge?  Eight designers are selected to participate in a 2.5 day design intensive. Designers will create an original runway look using upcycled garments and provided materials, responding to a central design challenge revealed after selection.

Who are we designing for?

3S Artspace selects runway models (a.k.a. Community Role Models!) to walk the runway.  You will meet your model on Thursday evening, take measurements, and get to know them a bit before diving into your design.  

Where is it held?  3S Artspace, Portsmouth, NH

When is it?  October 22 - 24, 2026

How are designers selected?  We’re looking for designers with a strong point of view, technical skill, and a willingness to experiment.  Interest and/or commitment in how to incorporate more sustainable methods to your own practice.  Show us how you think, not just what you’ve made.

 

JUDGING & CRITERIA

An invited panel of industry professionals will evaluate designers on:

  • Concept & Interpretation
  • Transformation & Innovation
  • Technique & Construction
  • Cohesion of the Full Look (head-to-toe styling)

Guest judges to be announced.

 

COMPETITION FORMAT

  • Thursday evening (October 22): Designer kickoff + material challenge
  • Friday and Saturday (October 23 + 24):  Design, construction, and fittings
  • Saturday Night (October 24):  Public runway event with live judging + audience vote

 

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Designers must bring their own sewing machine and essentials toolkit. Backup machines will be available if needed.

Housing (3 nights, Thursday-Sunday) and meals will be provided for participating designers.

 

PRIZES

Cash prizes:

  • First Place: $2,500
  • Second Place: $1,500
  • Third Place: $1,000
  • Audience Choice: $500

NEW THIS YEAR: The First Place winner will be invited to have a solo runway event and share a collection at 3S Artspace in the Spring of 2027.

 

IMPORTANT DATES

Application Deadline: Tuesday, June 30

Designers Selected: on or before Monday, July 13

Design Challenge: October 22 - 24, 2026

Runway Event: October 24, 2026 

 

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