GIVING OLD MATERIAL A NEW LEASE ON LIFE!

FDES upcycles FLATED Air-Toppers, Air-Decks, and Air-Carriers.

At FLATED we make auto-accessories to last a lifetime, but we’re hand made and can make mistakes. We have warrantied toppers or returns that we sell as refurbished toppers to keep the products in use and give them a second life! But what happens when these trusty toppers reach the end of their inflatable journey and can not be repaired? That's where FLATED donates materials to Montana local makers, like Justin Barry from FDES and Jacob Noah from Noah’s Fabric and Boat works step in, armed with their upcycling superpowers.

“FDES stands for Functional Design. It's a company that is passionate about sustainability and circular design. They believe that products should be made to last, and that they should be able to be reused or recycled at the end of their life.” says founder Justin Barry,

Justin doesn't see discarded FLATED toppers as waste; he sees them as a canvas for his creative genius. He meticulously disassembles the toppers, separating the various components:

Drop-Stitch Tote by Jacob Noah made with FLATED material.

Heavy-duty vinyl: This durable material, once a sleeping surface or protective cover, finds new life in sturdy bags, wallets, and even chic clutches.
D-rings, zippers, and cam locks: These hardware heroes get a second chance, adding functionality and flair to FDES's upcycled creations.
Window panels: Transformed from peek-a-boo portals to sleek accents on bags or even repurposed as durable patches for other outdoor gear.

Justin's upcycled FLATED creations range from practical fanny packs and bike bags to eye-catching wallets and purses, each one infused with a unique story and a touch of eco-conscious cool.

Why This Matters: A Stitch Towards a Sustainable Future

FDES's work goes beyond mere upcycling; it's a powerful statement about circular design and responsible resource management. The textile industry is a major polluter, and by giving discarded materials a new lease on life, FDES is diverting waste from landfills and reducing the environmental footprint of our consumer habits.

Sustainable Purse by Justin Barry.

Half ski-boot Half- FLATED purse by Justin Barry.

Why This Matters: A Stitch Towards a Sustainable Future

Join the Upcycling Revolution!

Inspired by Justin's creativity and commitment to sustainability? You can be part of the movement too! Here are some ways to get involved:

Donate: If you have an old sporting material gathering dust, consider giving it a new adventure by donating it, or reaching out to a local maker in your community.
Support sustainable brands: Choose companies that prioritize responsible sourcing and upcycling practices. Your purchasing power can make a difference!
Get crafty: Justin says “"Start making! Start small and grow as you go. Treat making as an experiment and allow yourself space to mess up and try new things. Do what is fun for you and follow ideas that you find interesting!"

This ongoing commitment ensures you can enjoy the fun and adventure of FLATED inflatables with complete peace of mind.

See more or purchase some of Justin's work here: www.fdesfunctionaldesign.com

Or follow Justin on Instagram here: instagram.com/fdes.functionaldesign/

Or reach out to Jacob at Noahs Fabric and Boat repair in Missoula here!