Craft a Green World
AN IDEALIST’S PERSPECTIVE ON CREATING
A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.
BY AU TUMN WIGGINS
Last spring, I took stock of my crafting supplies
and was dismayed when I realized that they
added up to components of a larger problem: the
consumption of material objects. Although clean
energy and organic agriculture are becoming more
prevalent, material objects — whether purchased
from a big box store or a craft supplier — are still
engulfing landfills.
The current resurgence of craft has evolved
into a fierce retreat from mass commercialism,
resurrecting an urge to combine practicality with
self-expression. The crafting community has already
embraced the repurposing of products, but we can
promote even more widespread changes to our
advantage.
Instead of opposing mass production, let’s consider
working creatively with corporate manufacturers
to help plan a product’s life cycle. For example,
imagine buying a shirt that includes instructions for
turning it into a reusable shopping bag (see page
78). Freelance “upcycle consultants” can become
valuable resources for companies, not only to help
make changes in product designs, but to execute
these ideas later in the product’s life.
What’s more, community upcycle programs,
spearheaded by craft groups, are potentially a key
source of materials for small brands. Craft sellers
can use existing websites and networks to publicize wish lists (and be specific — you’ll reap the
rewards!). They can also offer incentives to buyers,
such as discounts on handmade merchandise, or
special perks at events. Overstock supplies could
be resold or used to create project kits.
Along the same lines, craft brands can offer
to take back their own wares for refurbishing, or for
a discount on something new. They can consider
how their products might be given a second life,
and include those thoughts on the price tag. The
ideas are endless! ×
Autumn Wiggins is head writer for Crafting a Green World
(
craftingagreenworld.com), and is the “Strange Girl in Charge”
of Strange Folk, an indie craft show near St. Louis, Mo.
» WHAT DO WE WANT?
DON’T JUST SETTLE FOR WHAT RETAIL SUPPLIES OFFER.
ASK FOR INNOVATION! HERE’S MY ECO-CRAFTER’S LIST OF DEMANDS:
» Organic, sustainable textiles and fibers
» Soy-based inks and dyes
» Natural pigments for homemade paint and dyes
» Recycled and ethically mined metal jewelry findings
» Biodegradable plastic components
» Tree-free paper from fibers, not forests
» Natural alternatives to petroleum products like polymer clay
» Beads made of natural and recycled materials
» Nontoxic adhesives and art mediums
» Handcrafted tools
» Locally produced supplies
» Less packaging, or compostable packaging
Illustration by Alison Kendall
