Why Sustainable Crafting Matters: A Love Letter to Eco-Friendly Making

Welcome to the Little Sew and Sew blog, a space dedicated to inspiring sustainable creativity! As a lifelong crafter and the owner of Little Sew and Sew, I'm passionate about sharing my love for all things handmade with you. In this blog, we'll explore the world of eco-friendly crafting, from upcycling and repurposing to discovering sustainable materials and minimising waste. Join me as I embark on a journey of creativity and sustainability, one stitch, one yarn, and one mindful choice at a time.

 

I remember the thrill of finding the perfect fabric for a new project, the anticipation building as I imagined the finished piece. But that thrill was often overshadowed by a nagging question: What impact was my crafting habit having on the planet? This question sparked a journey of discovery that led me to embrace sustainable crafting practices and ultimately, to founding Little Sew and Sew.

 

For years, I've been drawn to a more sustainable lifestyle, inspired by friends, mentors, and a growing awareness of our environmental impact. But it wasn't until I found myself surrounded by unopened art supplies from my monthly subscription box, that the reality of the craft industry's wastefulness truly hit me. Plastic packaging piled up, non-refillable pens lay unused, and I felt a pang of guilt about my own contribution to the problem.

 

As a mature student, I have done a lot of research as an Environment and Sustainability Rep, where I set up a community of like-minded creatives and ran campaigns to increase awareness. I also spent a lot of time researching alternative products, which made me painfully aware of just how incredibly unsustainable the arts and crafts industry is. Making it extremely difficult for us as consumers to make good choices.

 

By crafting sustainably, you can;

 

• Help the environment: by reducing waste, conserving resources, support ethical and eco-friendly practices.
• Support small businesses: by supporting local makers, promoting fair trade and empowering communities.
• Develop your own practices: by creating meaningful and lasting connections with your creations, reducing stress and fostering self-expression.

 

Tips for eco-friendly crafting:

 

• Upcycling: Turning old clothes, scraps of fabric, and other discarded materials into new creations.
• Using natural dyes: Exploring plant-based dyes like indigo, turmeric, and onion skins.
• Choosing sustainable materials: Opting for organic cotton, recycled wool, and other eco-friendly fibres.
• Reducing waste: Minimizing fabric scraps, composting scraps, and donating unwanted materials.

 

At Little Sew and Sew my stock is carefully curated from closed businesses, including the original Little Sew and Sew Shop, to minimise waste and provide unique materials for your crafting projects. I am committed to expanding our offerings with a focus on ethically sourced and eco-friendly materials, making it easier for you to create beautiful and sustainable projects.

 

I know that sometimes it feels impossible, but it only takes small changes to make a big difference with consumer power at our fingertips. It is our job to make a statement and push for what we believe in and my job to empower you with the products that align with your commitment to sustainability.

 

Ready to embark on your own sustainable crafting journey? Find the inspiration and materials you need to create beautiful and sustainable projects at Little Sew and Sew. Let's craft a better tomorrow, together.

 

From my crafting table to yours,

 

Ashley