Staff Spotlight: Hayden Wentworth
Each month we highlight one of the wonderful folks who make the magic happen at ACR.
This month we’re featuring Retail Reuse Specialist, Hayden Wentworth (she/her). Hayden also works in the fashion industry at a sustainable clothing company, and is our go-to gal for identifying sewing items! She’s known on the team for her exceptional shelving skills and affection for all things Rat. Catch her in her signature orange vest around the center on the weekends or visit her booth at the Spring Reuse Market on Saturday, March 29th!
Read more about how Hayden found her way to ACR and her creative interests below.
How did you find Austin Creative Reuse?
Google! I was trying to find a fabric store other than JoAnn’s in Austin. ACR popped up, and the rest is history.
What’s your favorite part about working at ACR?
Finding new things everyday. I love going to thrift stores, estate sales, just to look through random stuff. 99% of the time I never buy anything, I just like to look. I also learn a lot about the most random things, which sometimes comes in handy. :)
How’d you end up as a Retail Reuse Specialist at ACR?
I had been looking for a weekend job, and I saw the ‘we’re hiring!’ post on instagram. I immediately applied.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve found donated to ACR?
~TAAA DAAAAA~
Are you an artist, crafter, or maker? What mediums do you work with? What kinds of arts and crafts do you like to do?
Yes! I went to The School of The Art Institute of Chicago for fashion design. Anything sewing related, I am well versed in. Collaging is also another medium I like to use, and I’ve been really into leather for the past year.
What do you do when you’re not working at ACR/what other hobbies do you have?
I actually have another job. I am an assistant technical designer for a sustainable fashion company named Known Supply. And when I’m not working there I’m working on my own ~artsy~ stuff.
Do you have any children or pets?
At the moment I do not have any pets but I do live with my roommate's cat Miso!
Are you from Austin? If so, tell us about your experience here! If not, where are you from and what brought you here?
I was born and raised in Houston. After college I was planning on moving back to Houston but my sister needed a roommate. I moved summer 2022 to west campus. I like to say I got the full UT experience without actually going to UT.