Jenelle Montilone

Meet Jenelle

Pellon: Where do you find inspiration for your work?
Jenelle: My designs are inspired by things that make me smile, laugh, and just bring joy to my life- most often times my boys. I love using reclaimed fabrics that stir emotion- repurposing my grandfathers shirt and still being able smell his cologne, laying my head down on an organic velor pillow that once wrapped my newborn son tightly- these types love stories are ingrained into designs.

P: What does your creative process entail?
J: I believe that all waste has value and appreciate good design. I enjoy looking at any object and innovating a creative solution for resuse- the challenge drives me. I’m the type of maker who doesn’t waste time mocking up a idea and instead jump head first in. Yes, sometimes it doesn’t always turn out as I planned but I love that risk. Failure only provides me with a new opportunity to recreate and serves me well for gaining new skills and insight.

P: Why do you enjoy sewing/crafting/quilting?
J: Creating in general has always been a part of my life, it’s been expressed in various forms through photography, pottery, sewing, painting and much more. I love experimenting with new techniques and am continually amazed at the way my creative journey continually impacts the way I view the world around me.

P: Do you create mainly for satisfaction, gifts, art or another reason?
J: I create for all of those reasons, but most often for my handmade business TrashN2Tees: where I offer a sustainable alternative to fun and fresh boys clothing and accessories that are made using 100% reclaimed materials.

P: What tips or tricks learned through experience can you share?
J: Art is your personal interpretation of how you experience the world. Don’t be afraid to let your voice be heard and trust your instinct. With that being said, invest in a good pair of scissors and a walking foot attachment for your sewing machine.