Beginner's guide to sustainable crafting
Starting a new hobby from scratch can be daunting, especially when it seems like there’s so many materials you need, and such a range of options. But it becomes even more scary when you consider: how do I do this sustainably? These five tips provide advice on how to craft more mindfully – reducing waste, saving money, and caring for the planet.
Start small
Don’t throw yourself into knitting a jumper or sewing a quilt for your first project. I know it’s exciting picking up a new hobby, or maybe you want to recreate something you’ve seen in a shop. But going too big for your first project means you’re more likely to give up and abandon it – and that’s not sustainable. Instead, opt for something small – crocheting a granny square, or sewing a tote bag.
Go charity shopping
Charity shops aren’t just for clothes or a random assortment of household items. Loads of charity shops sell yarn, much of it second-hand and in need of a new home. Similarly, fabric is often in abundance. If not, bedsheets, curtains, and oversized clothes can all be repurposed into new garments and accessories. And the best thing – you end up saving loads of money compared to buying new materials.
Mend your clothes
Instead of throwing out that pair of jeans with a hole in, try to fix them. The stakes are low – you were going to bin them anyway, so it doesn’t matter if it goes a bit awry. But it’s a good opportunity to practice new techniques on an old item of clothing. Even better, you’ve save another clothing item from going to landfill.
Save your scraps
Scrap yarn is not for the bin – there are so many incredible patterns that use up scrap yarn, and look really cool. If you don’t have enough of a colour to be able to use it in a project, tiny scraps of yarn can also be used as stuffing, for example in amigurumi crochet. Buttons, fabric, beads, sequins – they all have a purpose!
Join a local craft group
Getting to know the craft scene in your town or city is not only a great way to make friends, but can also help you be more sustainable in your crafting. These groups often provide a place for craft-lovers to swap materials, share advice, and provide knowledge – whether that’s how to do a particular stitch, or where the best yarn shop in town is.
Crafting sustainably is not only better for the environment – it also sparks creativity and resourcefulness. Hopefully these tips provide some helpful advice for beginner crafters who want to ensure they remain environmentally conscious in their practice. By starting small and staying creative, your hobby can have a positive impact. So with that, take a trip to the charity shop, or pick up your nan’s old knitting needles. Happy crafting!