Neon Studio
Basic information
Project Title
Neon Studio
Category
Shaping a circular industrial ecosystem and supporting life-cycle thinking
Project Description
Neon Studio is a vibrant and community-oriented sewing and textile craft space located in the heart of Jyväskylä. It offers various upcycling-themed craft workshops, short courses, a craft club, and the opportunity to use the sewing space independently.
Geographical Scope
Local
Project Region
City of Jyväskylä, Finland
Urban or rural issues
Mainly urban
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
Neon Studio is part of the "Sustainable Future of the Core City" initiative, where six Finnish cities join forces to enhance the functionality of city centers. Located in Jyväskylä, Neon Studio serves as a pilot project focusing on sustainable fashion and hands-on craftsmanship, aiming to promote responsible consumer behavior in the fashion and clothing sector. It offers professionally guided workshops for repairing, customizing, and maintaining clothes and accessories. Additionally, the space hosts events and handicraft clubs with a focus on circular economy principles. The studio encourages sustainable consumption by providing the opportunity for independent use of sewing machines through a one-time fee or a monthly membership.
Emphasizing the importance of circular economy, Neon Studio strives to extend the lifecycle of existing garments. The furnishing and materials for the space are acquired as much as possible from second-hand sources. While achieving complete sustainability poses challenges, Neon Studio aims to be transparent and promote learning and appreciation for what already exists. The mission is to give everyone the chance to learn to create and value what is already present.
Neon Studios' main target group is 35-55-year-old women, who are into handicrafts and fashion. Also students and people who have little money are targeted especially in our free handicrafts club.
Achieved outcomes:
- we have kept circular economy -based workshops
- free club is rolling
- children sewing camp was kept on summer 2023
- Neon's space is used by members
Emphasizing the importance of circular economy, Neon Studio strives to extend the lifecycle of existing garments. The furnishing and materials for the space are acquired as much as possible from second-hand sources. While achieving complete sustainability poses challenges, Neon Studio aims to be transparent and promote learning and appreciation for what already exists. The mission is to give everyone the chance to learn to create and value what is already present.
Neon Studios' main target group is 35-55-year-old women, who are into handicrafts and fashion. Also students and people who have little money are targeted especially in our free handicrafts club.
Achieved outcomes:
- we have kept circular economy -based workshops
- free club is rolling
- children sewing camp was kept on summer 2023
- Neon's space is used by members
Key objectives for sustainability
Sustainable Handicrafts: Fostering Eco-Friendly Practices
Neon Studio exemplifies sustainability in the realm of handicrafts. We've innovatively combined environmental consciousness with accessibility in our approach, creating a model for eco-friendly crafting.
Sustainability Objectives:
Eco-Friendly Workshop Design: Our space is a showcase of sustainability, furnished with upcycled and recycled items.
Second-Hand Crafting Equipment: We emphasize the circular economy by sourcing sewing machines and materials second-hand.
Workshops on Sustainable Crafting: Our workshops are centered around sustainable practices, teaching skills to prolong garment life and reduce waste.
Innovations and Achievements:Affordable Monthly Pass: We offer a cost-effective monthly pass, granting daily access to our workshop. This includes the use of our space, equipment, fabrics, sewing supplies, and other available materials.Clothing Longevity and Skill Development: Our focus on repair and upcycling skills contributes directly to extending the lifespan of clothing and reducing fashion waste.
Community Empowerment: We educate participants on sustainable crafting, empowering them to adopt eco-friendly habits.Exemplary Aspects:Affordable Access to Sustainability: Our monthly pass system makes sustainable crafting accessible, especially beneficial for those without the space or resources at home.Comprehensive Sustainability Model: From infrastructure to educational programs, our project is a holistic approach to eco-consciousness in handicrafts.
Wider Environmental Impact: By promoting sustainable practices in fashion and crafting, we contribute to a broader environmental awareness and action in the community.
In conclusion, our project not only serves as an example of sustainable crafting practices but also demonstrates how affordable and accessible initiatives can foster a more environmentally conscious community, making a significant impact in promoting a sustainable lifestyle.
Neon Studio exemplifies sustainability in the realm of handicrafts. We've innovatively combined environmental consciousness with accessibility in our approach, creating a model for eco-friendly crafting.
Sustainability Objectives:
Eco-Friendly Workshop Design: Our space is a showcase of sustainability, furnished with upcycled and recycled items.
Second-Hand Crafting Equipment: We emphasize the circular economy by sourcing sewing machines and materials second-hand.
Workshops on Sustainable Crafting: Our workshops are centered around sustainable practices, teaching skills to prolong garment life and reduce waste.
Innovations and Achievements:Affordable Monthly Pass: We offer a cost-effective monthly pass, granting daily access to our workshop. This includes the use of our space, equipment, fabrics, sewing supplies, and other available materials.Clothing Longevity and Skill Development: Our focus on repair and upcycling skills contributes directly to extending the lifespan of clothing and reducing fashion waste.
Community Empowerment: We educate participants on sustainable crafting, empowering them to adopt eco-friendly habits.Exemplary Aspects:Affordable Access to Sustainability: Our monthly pass system makes sustainable crafting accessible, especially beneficial for those without the space or resources at home.Comprehensive Sustainability Model: From infrastructure to educational programs, our project is a holistic approach to eco-consciousness in handicrafts.
Wider Environmental Impact: By promoting sustainable practices in fashion and crafting, we contribute to a broader environmental awareness and action in the community.
In conclusion, our project not only serves as an example of sustainable crafting practices but also demonstrates how affordable and accessible initiatives can foster a more environmentally conscious community, making a significant impact in promoting a sustainable lifestyle.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Enhancing Aesthetics in Handicrafts: A Community Approach
Our project uniquely combines aesthetics with a quality experience in handicrafts. Located in Jyväskylä, we've created a space that's not only functional but also visually appealing and culturally enriching.
Objectives:
Aesthetic Space Design: Utilizing recycled furniture and upcycled equipment, we've crafted an inviting workshop that resonates with our sustainable ethos.
Cultural Enrichment: By incorporating contemporary craft trends and traditional skills, we offer a culturally rich experience.
Quality Learning Experience: Professional-led workshops ensure participants gain valuable skills in a supportive environment.
Implementation:
Branding and Design: Our branding reflects a modern, inclusive approach, making handicrafts appealing to a wider audience.
Engaging Workshops: Tailored to various skill levels, our workshops blend traditional craftsmanship with modern trends.
Sustainable Practices: Our focus on using second-hand equipment and materials underscores our commitment to sustainability.
Exemplary Aspects:
Community and Environmental Sustainability: Our approach to design and material choice sets an example for how handicraft spaces can promote environmental consciousness.
Cultural Relevance: Staying attuned to current trends, we ensure our workshops and activities remain relevant and engaging.
Inclusivity in Design: Our space and activities are designed to be welcoming to all, fostering a diverse crafting community.
In conclusion, our project exemplifies how aesthetic considerations and quality experiences can elevate handicraft education, making it appealing, sustainable, and culturally enriching.
Our project uniquely combines aesthetics with a quality experience in handicrafts. Located in Jyväskylä, we've created a space that's not only functional but also visually appealing and culturally enriching.
Objectives:
Aesthetic Space Design: Utilizing recycled furniture and upcycled equipment, we've crafted an inviting workshop that resonates with our sustainable ethos.
Cultural Enrichment: By incorporating contemporary craft trends and traditional skills, we offer a culturally rich experience.
Quality Learning Experience: Professional-led workshops ensure participants gain valuable skills in a supportive environment.
Implementation:
Branding and Design: Our branding reflects a modern, inclusive approach, making handicrafts appealing to a wider audience.
Engaging Workshops: Tailored to various skill levels, our workshops blend traditional craftsmanship with modern trends.
Sustainable Practices: Our focus on using second-hand equipment and materials underscores our commitment to sustainability.
Exemplary Aspects:
Community and Environmental Sustainability: Our approach to design and material choice sets an example for how handicraft spaces can promote environmental consciousness.
Cultural Relevance: Staying attuned to current trends, we ensure our workshops and activities remain relevant and engaging.
Inclusivity in Design: Our space and activities are designed to be welcoming to all, fostering a diverse crafting community.
In conclusion, our project exemplifies how aesthetic considerations and quality experiences can elevate handicraft education, making it appealing, sustainable, and culturally enriching.
Key objectives for inclusion
Inclusive Crafting: Bridging Generational Skills
Our project, funded by Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy, focuses on inclusivity in handicrafts, emphasizing accessibility, affordability, and community engagement. We've successfully established an intergenerational learning platform in Jyväskylä, integrating diverse age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Objectives:
Intergenerational Learning: We connect older generations, rich in sewing and repair skills, with the youth, ensuring these traditional crafts are preserved and evolved.
Affordable Accessibility: Free sewing clubs and low-cost workshops led by professionals make handicrafts accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with local businesses and residents fosters a strong sense of community.
Implementation:
Tailored Workshops for All Ages: From children to seniors, our workshops are designed to cater to different skill levels, ensuring inclusivity.
Upcycling Projects: Engaging youth in upcycling initiatives promotes sustainability and creativity.
Community Spaces: Our workshop, adorned with recycled furniture and second-hand equipment, serves as a welcoming hub for crafting enthusiasts.
Exemplary Aspects:
Sustainability: Using donated materials and second-hand equipment highlights our commitment to a circular economy.
Local Collaboration: Partnering with local cafes and small businesses for events and supplies reinforces community bonds.
Media Engagement: Coverage by local newspapers enhances our reach, inviting broader community participation.
In summary, our project stands as an exemplary model of inclusivity in handicrafts, demonstrating how community-driven initiatives can foster skill sharing, sustainability, and social cohesion.
Our project, funded by Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy, focuses on inclusivity in handicrafts, emphasizing accessibility, affordability, and community engagement. We've successfully established an intergenerational learning platform in Jyväskylä, integrating diverse age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Objectives:
Intergenerational Learning: We connect older generations, rich in sewing and repair skills, with the youth, ensuring these traditional crafts are preserved and evolved.
Affordable Accessibility: Free sewing clubs and low-cost workshops led by professionals make handicrafts accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
Community Engagement: Collaborating with local businesses and residents fosters a strong sense of community.
Implementation:
Tailored Workshops for All Ages: From children to seniors, our workshops are designed to cater to different skill levels, ensuring inclusivity.
Upcycling Projects: Engaging youth in upcycling initiatives promotes sustainability and creativity.
Community Spaces: Our workshop, adorned with recycled furniture and second-hand equipment, serves as a welcoming hub for crafting enthusiasts.
Exemplary Aspects:
Sustainability: Using donated materials and second-hand equipment highlights our commitment to a circular economy.
Local Collaboration: Partnering with local cafes and small businesses for events and supplies reinforces community bonds.
Media Engagement: Coverage by local newspapers enhances our reach, inviting broader community participation.
In summary, our project stands as an exemplary model of inclusivity in handicrafts, demonstrating how community-driven initiatives can foster skill sharing, sustainability, and social cohesion.
How Citizens benefit
Citizen Engagement in Our Sustainable Handicraft Initiative
Our project, supported by Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy and located in Jyväskylä, has fostered significant citizen involvement, greatly impacting its direction and effectiveness.
Forms of Citizen Participation:
Workshop Engagement: Citizens have actively participated in our workshops, utilizing the space to develop their sewing skills. The availability of a monthly pass has made this participation affordable and regular.
Internship Opportunities: We’ve provided internship opportunities for students, allowing them to hone their sewing skills and gain practical experience in sustainable handicrafts.
Community Events: Our city-wide events, catered to various age groups, have broadened our reach, engaging a diverse range of citizens in sustainable crafting practices.
Impact of Citizen Involvement:
Skill Development and Empowerment: The active involvement in workshops has enabled citizens to acquire and refine sewing skills, contributing to personal and community empowerment.
Educational Growth: Internship opportunities have offered valuable real-world experience to students, fostering skill development and professional growth.
Community Cohesion: Events targeting different age groups have enhanced community cohesion, bringing together citizens from diverse backgrounds around the common interest of sustainable handicrafts.
In conclusion, citizen engagement has been pivotal in our project, contributing to its success and growth. Through workshops, internships, and community events, we have not only enhanced skills and awareness around sustainable practices but also fostered a sense of community and belonging.
Our project, supported by Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy and located in Jyväskylä, has fostered significant citizen involvement, greatly impacting its direction and effectiveness.
Forms of Citizen Participation:
Workshop Engagement: Citizens have actively participated in our workshops, utilizing the space to develop their sewing skills. The availability of a monthly pass has made this participation affordable and regular.
Internship Opportunities: We’ve provided internship opportunities for students, allowing them to hone their sewing skills and gain practical experience in sustainable handicrafts.
Community Events: Our city-wide events, catered to various age groups, have broadened our reach, engaging a diverse range of citizens in sustainable crafting practices.
Impact of Citizen Involvement:
Skill Development and Empowerment: The active involvement in workshops has enabled citizens to acquire and refine sewing skills, contributing to personal and community empowerment.
Educational Growth: Internship opportunities have offered valuable real-world experience to students, fostering skill development and professional growth.
Community Cohesion: Events targeting different age groups have enhanced community cohesion, bringing together citizens from diverse backgrounds around the common interest of sustainable handicrafts.
In conclusion, citizen engagement has been pivotal in our project, contributing to its success and growth. Through workshops, internships, and community events, we have not only enhanced skills and awareness around sustainable practices but also fostered a sense of community and belonging.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Innovative character
Innovating Handicrafts: A Distinctive Approach
Neon Studio stands out for its innovative approach in the handicraft field. Situated in Jyväskylä, we've redefined traditional crafting by integrating modern trends, sustainability, and community involvement.
Innovative Elements:
Intergenerational Learning: Uniquely focusing on bridging generational gaps in handicraft skills, we've created a platform for skill transfer from seniors to younger generations.
Sustainability in Practice: Our dedication to using recycled and upcycled materials in both workshops and overall setup sets us apart, promoting an eco-friendly crafting culture.
Community-Centric Model: Our approach to supporting local businesses and integrating the local community goes beyond typical crafting initiatives, creating a holistic and sustainable economic impact.
Comparative Innovation:
Beyond Conventional Crafting: While mainstream handicraft projects often focus on skill development, our project emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, making it more relevant in today's eco-conscious society.
Modern Trends Integration: Our inclusion of current trends like upcycling and social media engagement, particularly with platforms like TikTok, modernizes the traditional handicraft experience.
Economic and Social Impact: Our model not only promotes handicraft skills but also bolsters the local economy and fosters strong community ties.
Neon Studio stands out for its innovative approach in the handicraft field. Situated in Jyväskylä, we've redefined traditional crafting by integrating modern trends, sustainability, and community involvement.
Innovative Elements:
Intergenerational Learning: Uniquely focusing on bridging generational gaps in handicraft skills, we've created a platform for skill transfer from seniors to younger generations.
Sustainability in Practice: Our dedication to using recycled and upcycled materials in both workshops and overall setup sets us apart, promoting an eco-friendly crafting culture.
Community-Centric Model: Our approach to supporting local businesses and integrating the local community goes beyond typical crafting initiatives, creating a holistic and sustainable economic impact.
Comparative Innovation:
Beyond Conventional Crafting: While mainstream handicraft projects often focus on skill development, our project emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, making it more relevant in today's eco-conscious society.
Modern Trends Integration: Our inclusion of current trends like upcycling and social media engagement, particularly with platforms like TikTok, modernizes the traditional handicraft experience.
Economic and Social Impact: Our model not only promotes handicraft skills but also bolsters the local economy and fosters strong community ties.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Sustainable Handicrafts
Our project in Jyväskylä exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration in sustainable design, handicraft, education, and local business cooperation.
Integration of Disciplines:
Sustainable Design and Circular Economy: Emphasizing recycled materials and circular economy principles.
Handicraft and Textile Arts: Focusing on sewing and clothing repair skills for sustainable fashion.
Educational Methods and Pedagogy: Workshops designed using effective educational techniques.
Collaborative Interaction and Impact:
Community and Social Work: Fostering community inclusivity, using social work principles.
Marketing and Communication Strategies: Utilizing diverse marketing tools for broad audience reach.
Local Business and Economy Collaboration: Partnering with local businesses for materials and resources.
Added Value of This Approach:
Enhanced Sustainability: Combining sustainable design with handicraft to raise eco-friendly awareness.
Community Empowerment: Merging education and community engagement for personal and collective growth.
Economic and Social Benefits: Local business collaborations boosting the economy and community ties.
In conclusion, our project highlights the strength of integrating diverse fields, leading to an impactful, sustainable handicraft initiative. This approach benefits individuals and contributes to societal and environmental well-being.
Our project in Jyväskylä exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration in sustainable design, handicraft, education, and local business cooperation.
Integration of Disciplines:
Sustainable Design and Circular Economy: Emphasizing recycled materials and circular economy principles.
Handicraft and Textile Arts: Focusing on sewing and clothing repair skills for sustainable fashion.
Educational Methods and Pedagogy: Workshops designed using effective educational techniques.
Collaborative Interaction and Impact:
Community and Social Work: Fostering community inclusivity, using social work principles.
Marketing and Communication Strategies: Utilizing diverse marketing tools for broad audience reach.
Local Business and Economy Collaboration: Partnering with local businesses for materials and resources.
Added Value of This Approach:
Enhanced Sustainability: Combining sustainable design with handicraft to raise eco-friendly awareness.
Community Empowerment: Merging education and community engagement for personal and collective growth.
Economic and Social Benefits: Local business collaborations boosting the economy and community ties.
In conclusion, our project highlights the strength of integrating diverse fields, leading to an impactful, sustainable handicraft initiative. This approach benefits individuals and contributes to societal and environmental well-being.
Methodology used
Methodology of Community-Driven Handicrafts Project
Neon Studio showcases a community-driven approach in sustainable handicrafts. Initially developed by an expert, it was later reshaped through collaborative community involvement.
Initial Planning and Community Involvement:
Local Stakeholder Engagement: We engaged local circular economy stakeholders in the early stages, organizing workshops to understand community needs.
Idea Development: Feedback from these workshops refined our project goals, leading to the implementation of community-informed ideas.
Implementation Strategy:
Building a Network: We fostered a network for ongoing communication and collaboration among participants and stakeholders.
Diverse Marketing Techniques: Our outreach strategies included bus seat ads, social media, local media, and influencer marketing, enhancing community awareness.
Workshop Design and Execution: Workshops were tailored based on community needs, focusing on skill development in sustainable crafting.
Engagement and Community Building:
Inclusive Workshops: Workshops were designed to be inclusive, accommodating various skill levels.
Community Feedback: Continuous feedback was sought to adapt and refine our offerings.
Results and Adaptation:
Community-Centric Outcomes: The project’s success is evident in the strong community formed around our workshops.
Adaptive Approach: Strategies were flexibly adapted based on community input and evolving needs.
In conclusion, our project exemplifies the effectiveness of community-driven methods in sustainable handicrafts. It highlights the importance of collaborative planning, diverse marketing, and adaptable execution in fostering a vibrant, inclusive crafting community.
Neon Studio showcases a community-driven approach in sustainable handicrafts. Initially developed by an expert, it was later reshaped through collaborative community involvement.
Initial Planning and Community Involvement:
Local Stakeholder Engagement: We engaged local circular economy stakeholders in the early stages, organizing workshops to understand community needs.
Idea Development: Feedback from these workshops refined our project goals, leading to the implementation of community-informed ideas.
Implementation Strategy:
Building a Network: We fostered a network for ongoing communication and collaboration among participants and stakeholders.
Diverse Marketing Techniques: Our outreach strategies included bus seat ads, social media, local media, and influencer marketing, enhancing community awareness.
Workshop Design and Execution: Workshops were tailored based on community needs, focusing on skill development in sustainable crafting.
Engagement and Community Building:
Inclusive Workshops: Workshops were designed to be inclusive, accommodating various skill levels.
Community Feedback: Continuous feedback was sought to adapt and refine our offerings.
Results and Adaptation:
Community-Centric Outcomes: The project’s success is evident in the strong community formed around our workshops.
Adaptive Approach: Strategies were flexibly adapted based on community input and evolving needs.
In conclusion, our project exemplifies the effectiveness of community-driven methods in sustainable handicrafts. It highlights the importance of collaborative planning, diverse marketing, and adaptable execution in fostering a vibrant, inclusive crafting community.
How stakeholders are engaged
Synergy in Handicrafts: Multi-Level Stakeholder Engagement
Our project, underpinned by a grant from Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy, exemplifies the power of multi-level stakeholder collaboration in Jyväskylä. Our approach to handicrafts has brought together various stakeholders, each playing a significant role in our success.
Stakeholder Roles and Engagement:
National Level - Finnish Ministry: Provided crucial funding, enabling the project’s initiation and ensuring its viability.
Local Level - City of Jyväskylä: Offered consultation and space planning expertise, contributing significantly to the project's foundational stages.
Design and Implementation: A local interior designer, provided by the city, guided the aesthetic setup of our workshop, aligning it with our vision and brand.
Local Artisans and Businesses: Local seamstresses and small business owners supplied materials and services, reinforcing our commitment to community-based sustainability.
Added Value of Engagement:
Financial and Credibility Boost: National funding and local government involvement lent the project both financial support and legitimacy.
Community Ties: Collaboration with local artisans and businesses fostered strong community ties and supported the local economy.
Expertise and Authenticity: The involvement of professional seamstresses and an interior designer ensured a high standard of skill-sharing and a culturally rich environment.
Sustainability and Economic Impact: Emphasizing local sourcing and collaboration strengthened our sustainability goals and had a positive impact on the local economy.
In conclusion, the diverse stakeholder engagement in our project not only enriched its implementation but also exemplified how collaborative efforts can result in a more vibrant, sustainable, and community-focused initiative.
Our project, underpinned by a grant from Finland's Ministry of Employment and the Economy, exemplifies the power of multi-level stakeholder collaboration in Jyväskylä. Our approach to handicrafts has brought together various stakeholders, each playing a significant role in our success.
Stakeholder Roles and Engagement:
National Level - Finnish Ministry: Provided crucial funding, enabling the project’s initiation and ensuring its viability.
Local Level - City of Jyväskylä: Offered consultation and space planning expertise, contributing significantly to the project's foundational stages.
Design and Implementation: A local interior designer, provided by the city, guided the aesthetic setup of our workshop, aligning it with our vision and brand.
Local Artisans and Businesses: Local seamstresses and small business owners supplied materials and services, reinforcing our commitment to community-based sustainability.
Added Value of Engagement:
Financial and Credibility Boost: National funding and local government involvement lent the project both financial support and legitimacy.
Community Ties: Collaboration with local artisans and businesses fostered strong community ties and supported the local economy.
Expertise and Authenticity: The involvement of professional seamstresses and an interior designer ensured a high standard of skill-sharing and a culturally rich environment.
Sustainability and Economic Impact: Emphasizing local sourcing and collaboration strengthened our sustainability goals and had a positive impact on the local economy.
In conclusion, the diverse stakeholder engagement in our project not only enriched its implementation but also exemplified how collaborative efforts can result in a more vibrant, sustainable, and community-focused initiative.
Global challenges
Neon Studio provides local solutions to following global challenges: overconsumption, fast fashion, ethical problems in fashion industry, the loss of hand crafting skills, textile waste and the loss of sociality (because of social media).
Learning transferred to other parties
Neon Studio has it's brick-and-mortar shop, sewing machines, workshops and short courses, materials (fabrics, etc.), hand crafting club, website/webstore, social media accounts with many ideas for hand crafting. All this is can be replicated and localized. Especially our workshops and courses are complete packages, and can be held as many time as possible, wherever there is electricity, space and sewing machines or other equipment.
Keywords
Circular economy
Textile Crafts
Community space
Knowledge sharing
Sustainable consumption
