Most of us know the importance of sustainability in our daily lives. We recycle, we use reusable bags, and we try to reduce our carbon footprint. But what about the craft supplies we use? Are they sustainable? Are they harmful to our environment?
A growing movement toward sustainable crafting is making it easier than ever to create consciously. From recycled cardstock to naturally renewable wool felt, eco-friendly alternatives allow us as artists and makers to express our creativity while supporting more sustainable production methods. These options are becoming more readily available and are easier than ever to find. We just have to make an effort to look for them.
There are plenty of ways to reduce our environmental impact while still enjoying the creative process. Craft supplies can be natural, sustainable, non-toxic, ethically sourced, or composed of recycled content. Here are some sustainable craft supplies we have found to help you on your eco-friendly crafting journey.
- Recycled Paper and Cardstock
Paper is one of the most commonly used craft supplies, and it's also one of the easiest to make more sustainable. Look for paper and cardstock made from recycled materials, which are available in a wide range of colors and weights. Recycled cardstock is a great choice for all kinds of projects and, most importantly, great for making paper plants.
- Recycled Felt Fabric
Felt is a popular crafting material, but traditional felt is made from non-renewable materials like polyester. Recycled felt, made from post-consumer plastic bottles, is a more sustainable alternative. It has the same soft texture and vibrant colors as traditional felt but with a smaller environmental footprint.
- Wool Felt
Wool felt is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable material. It is made from sheep's wool, which is shorn without harming the animal. Wool felt is durable, soft, and easy to work with, making it a great choice for a wide range of craft projects.
- Upcycled and Repurposed Materials
One of the best ways to reduce waste in your crafting is to upcycle and repurpose materials you already have. Clothing, fabric scraps, and books can all be transformed into new and beautiful creations. Using the fabric that you have in your sewing stash is also a good way to repurpose what you already have. Start saving your green-colored fabrics and gently-used clothing for your next Forever-Plant project.
Book pages and paper scraps can be used to make paper plants; just glue multiple pages together to make thick leaves. Get creative with your materials and see what you can come up with!
