Green Tips for Your Craft Room
The fortieth anniversary of Earth Day happens this Thursday, April 22nd. So why not look at having a “greener” craft room or studio – it’s the perfect time to make some easy and Earth-friendly changes!
- Unfortunately, most fabric is pretty hard on the environment to produce. Organic cotton, Tencel and fabrics made from recycled fibers (like some polyesters) are the most eco-friendly choices available.
- Bamboo is advertised as being a great green fiber, but it depends on how and where it’s made. If it’s produced organically in North America, go ahead and use it. If it’s been made in China from clear-cut land, it’s actually pretty bad for the environment.
- Why not use material that’s going to end up in the landfill instead of buying new? You can find great fabric and craft supplies at lots of thrift shops.
- How about holding a craft supply swap with friends? That way you can find a new home for your supplies, instead of tossing them in the garbage. You can also “shop” their stashes and get new (to you!) supplies for yourself.
- What an about switching to energy-saving CFL light bulbs in your studio? They last longer and use a lot less energy.
- Do you dispose of your craft waste properly? Read the disposal recommendations for old paint, dyes and glues. Don’t throw out material that can still be used by someone else. How about donating it to a church, women’s shelter or kids craft group instead?
It doesn’t take a lot of extra time or effort to be a little more green – just think about some of the choices you’re making!
image: © C Findlay-Harder
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I have a Ott light in my studio and I really need it (at my age) for much of my crafting. Do you know how “green” that is? I don’t have a clue; but I don’t know what I would do without it!
Great info on the different fabrics. Thank you.
Great tips Chloe, all of them well worth employing! Thanks for sharing!