Kelly Rand
Another thing to consider when crafting with an environmental conscious are your tools and what they are made from. Tools made from recycled or sustainable materials are out there and available for use.
One of the first items on any crafter’s list is a good pair of scissors. Being able to splice thread and cut a mean line is of utmost importance. Scissors can make or break a project. Luckily there is nifty pair of craft scissors made with recycled plastic.
Kleen Earth’s Recycled Stainless Steel Scissors contain 70% post consumer content and come in several different lengths. Perfect for paper, yarn, thread and numerous other materials. They’re available off of Amazon or can be found at any office discount supply store.
If you sew, you know that a good pair of sharp shears is vital and if you already have a pair that you love, learn how to extend their life by sharpening them, reducing the need for a new pair.
A quick tour of the internet reveals numerous ways to sharpen a pair of scissors at home (perfect for your craft or kitchen shears, probably not the best for your new Ginghers). Sandpaper and aluminum foil seem to do the trick as well as a glass bottle. Who knew?
For an expensive pair of shears you’ll want to learn to use a sharpening stone. This involves running the blades of the scissors along the stone until sharp. Your local craft supply store might also provide sharpening services. So be sure to ask next time you’re there.
Image from Acme United.
Will they stand up to the use and abuse of my high school art students?
Thanks for enabling! These look pretty cool and I’m in need of new ones!