Eco Fashion Friday Catching Back UP with threadUP

Good morning all you fine fashionable folks in bloggyland! Another week has passed and it is hard to believe but we’re already back around to Eco Fashion Friday! I recently got word from my friends over at threadUP that the clothing exchange website for kids is open and ready to rock!

Hooray!

We profiled this company and their unique concept back in January. The company facilitates the exchange of gently worn clothing. This particular division works with kids clothing and although I don’t have any kids of my own, I know a few people who will benefit greatly from the advent of this awesome concept!

How does it work? Easily!

Parents get on the website, list a box of clothing (that their child has out grown) to send, then pick a box to receive from another parent. Done. Plain and simple. Just that easy!

Signing up is quick and membership is free. Oh yes, that’s right. All you pay for is the shipping cost to send the box then sit back and wait for new clothing to arrive for your own little one!

With the rate at which kids grow and outgrow clothing this is just a fantastic concept.

If you’re a parent short on time to shop, looking to get rid of some clothing out of your kid’s closet and want to replace it rather inexpensively then get over to

SIGN UP

And join Ryker in packing up a box of your own gently worn clothing for another kid to enjoy!

Thanks threadUP for pioneering such a time and money saving venture for so many parents out there! ♥love♥

Best Green Gifts for 2010 -- A Guide and Giveaways!!

Good morning Friends, the GLR Best Green Gifts for 2010 guide is finally here and we’re even giving some of them away to a few lucky readers like you. These gift ideas are appropriate for anyone on any occasion and include some physical gifts, as well as other awesomeness, so sit back and dive into the Best Green Gifts for 2010, presented in no particular order.

*** GIVEAWAY RULES are located at the end of the post so please read through***

BEST GREEN GIFTS FOR 2010

Hugg A Planet -- It’s the globe for the new generation, but not only can a kid (or adult!) hug the planet Earth, there is also a moon, Mars, stars and even a flatter map of the U.S. to choose from. The shell is 100% cotton and provides a guide to over 600 places (on Earth) on a squeezable pillow. What better way to show a love for the planet than giving it a big hug every night?

Nahui Ollin Handbags -- Ever think about what happens to all of those gum or soda bottle wrappers after their first use? Well Nahui Ollin sure did and uses them to create stunning cases and handbags with a truly unique, woven look. Talk about doubling your fun!

World Vision Gift Catalog -- With over 100 options inside, this is the Green gift that keeps on giving! But don’t think it’s all about things manufactured, some of the very cool gifts include: an alpaca, a deep water well for a school, a bicycle so a girl can attend school, ten fruit trees, plus a slew of others. These gifts are not only eco-friendly they are socially conscious and well worth the investment.

Make it Right -- In August of 2005 Hurricane Katrina changed the lives of thousands of people along the Gulf Coast, primarily in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. Two years later activist Brad Pitt toured the hardest hit area, the Lower 9th Ward. He started this campaign with the Pink Project (sculptural tarps that indicated locations of the homes slated to be rebuilt) and 50 of the 150 LEED Platinum certified homes were to be completed by the end of December 2009. There are amazing items available to purchase (such as the first book published documenting the project: Architecture In Times of Need or tote bags created from the original pink tarps) or a donation can be made to further the cause and assist in completion of the project by December 2010.

Filter for Good Campaign -- Brita together with Nalgene are aiming to completely eliminate the use of one time use plastic bottles through this campaign. Delicious, filtered tap water consumed from a BPA free, reusable bottle? I can’t think of a better way to stay hydrated! Not to mention they also support the Surfrider Foundation, way cool.

The Greening Book -- I can’t stress enough: Green gifts for kids. Learning now will ingrain positive habits for the future! A spiral bound journal style book with a rigid cover allows the user to add their name as co-author to the front, as well as their thoughts, ideas and actions toward caring for the planet, not to mention there is a giving thanks page and a way to involve every member of the household plus so much more.

Dapple -- Any parent with a new baby is concerned with keeping their items as clean as possible and Dapple promotes the use of naturally derived ingredients in their cleaners that break down food and odor for truly clean, mouth ready toys and bottles.

BooksOnBoard -- All the rage, and a strong proponent of saving trees, is the eBook. The cool thing about BooksOnBoard as opposed to a handheld device is that the book is downloadable right to the computer and it works for PC, Mac, iPhone and other smartphone style devices (it will also work with Kindle according to the website). No trees are harmed and no additional equipment has to be manufactured to give the gift of words.

Save the Redwoods League -- Many of us will spend $50 on gifts for our loved ones but few of us could say that money purchased a tree named in their honor, until now. With a $50 donation a seedling will be planted and a commemorative certificate showing the reforestation efforts in California State Parks is granted to the recipient. But truthfully this gift is really like giving to every living thing that needs oxygen to survive!

Animoto -- A greeting card for the technophile in all of our lives. Photos and videos are uploaded by the creator to provide a most unique greeting card to the recipient. An annual membership will cost about $30 but to create a simple, super cute Valentine’s Day greeting video for a friend or loved one is totally free.

Soda Stream -- Turn water into a carbonated beverage with just the push of a button then add condensed flavoring options to create healthier versions of your favorite sodas right at home. Place cold water in a special carbonating bottle (in BPA free plastic or glass) then inject with CO2 from the attached canister. The canister is sent back to Soda Stream to be inspected, cleaned and reused so there is virtually no waste, which helps save up to 310 aluminum cans per canister and the machine uses no electricity to operate.

Nature Bag -- Created by home based workers from JungleVine in Laos, this simple bag is perfect for a day at the Farmer’s Market, to tote toys or anything else that needs carrying. A sturdy strap, that is long enough to cross over the body for ease of transporting items, and inherent stretch from the vine make this a durable, yet flexible and breathable, woven fabric.

Zipcar Annual Membership -- The other day I discussed the new trend toward Hybrid vehicles, suggesting alternate forms of transport, and Zipcar is way at the top of the list of cool, Green options. For just $75 you will give someone without wheels the flexibility of mobility whenever they like (membership & annual fee included, hourly/daily rates not included). Use it for an hour or a week, order online or over the phone. The ‘use only when needed’ approach takes countless tons of emission out of the air. With gas, insurance and 180 miles included this is sure to get you moving.

DuckSkinz -- There are few things to me as enjoyable as spending time outside in the sunshine. I love to walk the beach, swim, play sports, hike, anything in the bright fresh air. The problem lies in my very fair skin and how easily it can burn without proper sunscreen protection. The makers of DuckSkinz are revolutionizing outdoor activities by providing a lotionless SPF protection of 100 by simply wearing their moisture resistant, lightweight, flexible shirts/jackets. Not enough to be touted as environmental you say? All their shirts are made from a blend of proprietary recycled material and bamboo. Surf’s up!

Sylvania Light Products -- Leading the charge in cool and creative lighting concepts, Sylvania provides consumers with 3 snazzy, fun lighting solutions: DOT it Solar (solar powered outdoor LEDs), PalPODzzz (portable night light) and LED Color Changing Coasters. The outdoor lights are perfect for lining a patio or walkway, PalPODzzz come in an adorable ladybug shape and the LED coasters will be sure to make a funky splash at any gathering, all without using electricity or incandescent bulbs.

Garden Bon Bons -- What does soil eat? Why bon bons of course! I’m not talking about the human variety ice cream filled versions, no, these are a little different. Made from seeds, compost and clay, these lovely little selections are made up into truffle shapes and placed in a fancy pants box that could almost fool the savviest of chocolate eaters! They could not be simpler: plant in the garden or indoor pot, water give a little sunlight and enjoy as they grow. Comes in Italian Herb or Herbal Tea varieties and at about $15 for eight bon bons, this is a gift anyone can enjoy.

Annemarie Börland Natural Beauty -- Created from natural extracts that will readily biodegrade where possible, the company provides skin care products (for men & women), hair and body care and a full line of cosmetics, not to mention an entire sun block line as well. When it washes down the drain and into waterways we can feel confident knowing these products will not harm the planet.

VeeV -- Few things are as popular as giving the gift of liquor, so when shopping for something that will be sure to impress, consider a bottle of VeeV Açaí Berry Spirit. The liqueur is created from distilled Idaho grain and infused with the exotic Brazilian Açaí berry (also prickly pear cactus & acerola cherries) and at a price of just $35 per bottle it is far less than many other high end liqueurs. The company is dedicated to socially responsible harvesting, donating proceeds from their sales to that very cause, not to mention Açaí is touted as one of the world’s top superfoods. Oh yeah, VeeV is also the world’s first spirits company to be certified 100% carbon neutral.

GIVEAWAY RULES

The companies below will be conducting a random giveaway of their mentioned item so to qualify, please leave a comment answering the following question.

***Who in your life will benefit the most from receiving a Green gift in 2010 and why?***

Only one entry per person.

Be sure to include a way to get in touch with you if you win, all winners must acknowledge their win within three days or another winner will be chosen.

The contest will run through this Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 5:00 PM EST. At that time I will use a random generator to pick the winners but please note the items sent will be done so at random via Social Lite. These companies will be shipping direct to all of you so I will need to acquire mailing addresses for that purpose.

Good luck!!!

Giveaways include:
Soda Stream
Filter for Good
DuckSkinz
Nahui Ollin handbags
Garden Bon Bons
Sylvania Light products (3 products)

Eco Fashion Friday Feature thredUP Kids

One of the very reasons I have chosen not to have children is that those little buggers can sure be expensive haha! One item that will forever be a need and will definitely add up over time is clothing. How does a parent save money if there aren’t any hand me downs to procure from older relatives or friend’s kids? Or worse yet, what should a parent do with all of those clothes that their own child outgrew? They get on over to the thredUP Kids website, register and begin exchanging quality clothing in fabulous condition with parents all over the country that’s what!

What’s that you say? Exchange clothing with other parents? Why yes indeed and it could not be easier (or less expensive for the first 1,000 registrants!)

thredUP is a bold concept that has been working for adults for a little under a year now and was founded by three guys -- James Reinhart, Oliver Lubin and Chris Homer -- right here in the Boston, Massachusetts area. Surprised? I highly encourage everyone to check out their About Us section on the thredUP site to read the back story, its pretty funny.

So what does all this have to do with kids you might be asking?

Well the long and short of it all is that what has been working for adults is now something they are feeling out an interest in for kids as well and what is even cooler is that the first 1,000 members to register via this link will be allowed to exchange their first for free when the site launches in February! Score!

Not only upcycled, recycled, increase of the lifecycle and reused, but inexpensive too. Now how many parents could go for that? The really great news is that this service will be for boys and girls ranging in age from 0-12 so parents can begin exchanging as soon as their little one outgrows their very first size.

Obviously there are a few rules involved -- no stained or torn clothing allowed for starters -- and since this particular division is just in its own infancy stages there are more things to come but I can’t get over how cool a concept this is to exchange like new clothing that I think I might just sign myself up.

I especially recommend parents signing up that want to do their part not only for the planet but their own kid’s closet. Then sign up for yourself at the flagship site too. The only thing you have to lose is a pile of clothes you are bored with and the gain is a whole bunch of like new stuff you never had to set foot inside a mall to get.

Who Is Recycle Moe?

Thanks to one of our Greenies, Michaela, I was introduced to Recycle Moe, a very funky and fun company that creates unique products from 100% upcycled materials.

The company is run out of Moe O’Hara’s hometown of Burlington, Vermont where she enjoys spending her time creating items such as reusable coffee bean/grounds bags, mini spiral bound books with floppy discs for covers, innovative coffee cup sleeves with an attached clip so it will never be too far from a purse or briefcase and a whole slew of other cool items.

Moe not only showcases her awesome goodies on her website but she has a shop on Etsy where the bulk of her items for sale are baby bibs created from fused plastic shopping bags. And they are really cute. In the Vermont area? Recycle Moe items can also be found in twelve brick and mortar locations (and one in Rhode Island too). Check out the Shop link for a complete list.

Her prices are super reasonable (bibs come in at just $15) and shipping is also pretty low. I definitely suggest checking out Recycle Moe next time you’re looking for a creative, handmade, upcycled and unique gift for the quirky and fun Greenie in your life!

Home Improvement Projects from Reused and Upcycled Materials

Over the past couple months, Matt and I have been completing a few minor home improvement updates, upgrades and modernizations to our rental apartment. One of the most important upgrades we have made has been the mattress topper that we replaced.

Since I am not only a Greenie but a novice seamstress as well, it only seemed right to do something functional with the old one. After all, just because it had outlived its useful life on top of the bed, did not mean it could not be turned into a wonderfully functional addition to a couple areas around our home.

All I had to do was cut it up!

This bench seat came from my grandparent’s home. It was originally designed as a phone table due to the attached shelf. We placed it in a small nook in our mudroom and hung my Van Gogh “Starry Night” print above it but it just didn’t feel homey; I knew there was unlimited potential for this space.

We decided on a beach theme since both of us are beach lovers so I wanted a fabric for the cushion that would help draw attention away from the somewhat yucky vinyl floor. With a perfect sized scrap left over from a prior project, I set out to create the seat cushion.

After taking a basic measurement of the seat opening, I cut the foam to match. I then cut each fabric piece at ½ inch larger than the foam on all sides and stitched all but a three inch opening on one of the seams. The seams were pressed open and turned right side out, foam was inserted and using an inside stitch the opening was closed.

The vase was acquired at a discounted irregulars shop and the grasses are faux so they will last for ages. The sand came from a garden supply center and the blown glass starfish was a birthday gift this past June. Matt and I had taken a ride to a favorite beach spot and collected a whole slew of rocks. I also snapped a few photos of the ocean while we were there and one was pretty enough to frame.

Voila!**

We plan to acquire more rocks to fill in the rest of the corner behind the vase, as well as the strip of missing flooring at the far back wall and I will likely stain the bench to match the frame color.

It is true that almost all of these items are newly purchased and only the components of the cushion were reclaimed, but every time we walk in the back door now it is like we are in our own little beach sanctuary. It is calming and relaxing and that is the main thing we were going for. We both love it and know it is a design that will last through the years in our home; and it was all inspired by creating a cushion out of reclaimed materials from the hand me down bench.

Luckily however, I will find about 100 other uses for the foam pad…

The first of these projects will be as cushioning for 5 chairs around the house -- my sewing chair (being recovered) and our 4 kitchen chairs (which will be covered for the first time and using a painted drop cloth for the fabric. I will report on that one soon!)

What outdated materials have you breathed new life into?

**Please note our house is completely out of level and plumb so unfortunately everything is a little crooked.

Eco Fashion Friday Halloween Series Costume Creation Tips

Here are some more tips in the continuing series here at GLR about how to create a more eco-friendly Halloween this year!

eHow has a great article on ways to be Earth friendly this Halloween. My favorite tip of all here is raiding the closets of family and friends. Some clothing buried deep in an older family member’s closet could be perfect to complete a retro look, or pieces from their collection might just be the perfect accent like a brooch or a nice pair of shoes.

Get creative in your own closet! Last year my husband, in the business for thirteen years, went as an Out of Work Mortgage Banker. He got dressed as he normally would for work but put on pants that had shrunk, wore a pair of really scuffed shoes, un-tucked one side of his collar shirt, buttoned it askew, tied his tie haphazardly and messed up his hair. I think he even had a folded up resume in his pocket. It was hilarious and timely and did not cost a dime.

Trade costumes with a friend. One of the biggest bits of waste on Halloween is in fact the costume. Worn for just one night then given away we can greatly increase the lifecycle if we hold onto it and exchange with a friend or colleague the following year.

If you must buy new, think of going with something handmade. One of our favorite shopping experiences here at GLR is the community of unparalleled artists and designers over at Etsy. I typed the words “Halloween costume” into the main page search field and got a hit of just under 13,000 results. Chances are there will be something there to suit every need or desire imaginable. Not only is it nice to support independent artists but most items are going to be one of a kind (OOAK) so you won’t arrive at the party in the same outfit as a friend!

Sew your own. In a week or two I will be sharing the makings of the costume I am creating for myself this year out of a little creativity and a couple T-shirts. I am still working on sketches and the overall concept but stay tuned for at least half of a costume created from very simple sewing techniques as well as extremely inexpensive items from thrift shops or my very own closet!

Photo thanks goes out to Judi FitzPatrick Studios again. Thanks Mom!

3M Command Hooks Get a Facelift

Recently while shopping for some home improvement items to help liven up our new-ish apartment we picked up some curtains. I had intended to make curtains from material I already have but as I was going through my stash it turns out that much of the large bulk fabric I had I already used for various other projects so in this instance it was essential to buy new.

As a side note, luckily I was able to reuse the curtains we had in our prior bedroom in our current bath as well as our living room panels in the living room here. The main issues of concern now were the bedroom and closets.

Our apartment is a modified railroad style, meaning it is in one long rectangle and the common length of hallway houses doors to each space. Here is the basic floor plan I drew up while acquiring items for the move:

The bedroom resides in a little nook just big enough for our bed and a couple of small tables but the doorway is a wide open archway measuring about 84” across. When we first moved in I had this idea to create a movie theater-esque design using heavy red velvet panels, a matching scalloped valance with gold trim and tie backs in the same gold with huge tassels. It seemed fitting for us.

So while shopping, when I came across some heavy, deep maroon, velvet curtains with already attached 2” wide nickel grommets I was in heaven! It looked as if the dream for a theater theme was coming to fruition. I knew it would be relatively simple to locate the cording, tassels and trim at my local craft shop but what to use for tie back hooks?

We checked out the home improvement section but nothing seemed right. We headed for the décor aisle and there they were; 3M Command Timeless removable hooks in brushed nickel.

I was impressed right away. I have long been a lover of these hooks because Matt and I move so much and they: 1. leave no holes in the wall and 2. always come with us to the next place. I have only ever used the white plastic version however as they tend to reside mostly in our kitchen for things like potholders and hand towels. I had no idea they came in metal!

I picked up two, one for each tieback, and fully intend to hit the craft store later this week to acquire the trim and tassels. Once I have created the final look and attached the hooks to do their thing for a while I will come back and post a proper review of their true usefulness. I am looking forward to completing this project this weekend!

Eco Fashion Friday Featured Video from Threadbanger

If you have been reading Green Leaf for a while it is no secret I have fallen in love with Threadbanger. They have provided me with tons of inspiration to make simple yet adorable clothing out of recycled, upcycled and unconventional materials. This video is no exception to that rule!

In this video they share the secrets for creating a shirred dress. For those not in the sewing know, shirring is created with that elasticized thread and can frequently be found on the top of dresses (like the photo above taken from the video) or tops for the gals.

Now I have two dresses that must be created as soon as possible! I know just the fabric this one will be created from too, it will drape great and be a perfect little black summer dress!

Get creative with this if you sew -- make it longer, create a halter with wider straps, make spaghetti straps for both shoulders, criss-cross the straps in the back -- the opportunities are endless which means by using the same base pattern, we ladies could create an entire summer wardrobe of super cute dresses. I’m in!

Eco Fashion Friday Featured Designer Jennifer Locke Designs

Last week when I briefly touched on the children’s tee shirts it occurred to me that we have yet to feature a fashion designer who creates eco fashions for kids. So when I came across Jennifer Locke Designs adorable bloomers for little girls it seemed only right to give her shop some love!


Jenn, as she refers to herself in her shop announcement, uses all vintage fabrics when she is creating these little bloomers. Upcycling at its finest! The photo above is of a pair created from a former sun suit. Her price is right in line with other shops that create this type of clothing but for a handmade children’s item the price is amazing -- most of her pieces are either $15 or $18. She ships internationally as well and the cost is very reasonable.

Most of the bloomers are available in sizes ranging from newborn up to 4T and she will even create custom orders utilizing client selected patterns or embellishments. JLD also will accommodate wholesale orders and her winter stock (recycled sweater mittens) has been featured in galleries. Her feedback is 100% positive after being in business for two years.

With a great eye on protecting the bottoms of little girls everywhere as well as the planet I am granting a Three and a Half Leaf Rating to Jennifer Locke Designs!

Keep up the amazing work, from one Jenn to another!
♥love♥

Eco Fashion Friday Featured Designer Angela Pennock of Marang97

Based out of Santa Fe, New Mexico Marang97 is a unique shop indeed as Angela utilizes ambiguous material such as T-shirts and buttons and fashions them into some of the most adorable and feminine accessories I have seen in ages. Her fine art isn’t so bad either. I admit, I am hooked!





The first thing I noticed in Angela’s shop is that every section utilizes recycled materials be it shirts, yarn or paper, Angela is fully committed to finding a way to breathe new life into formerly loved pieces. There are many items to choose from in this shop (upwards of fifty) and they range from pins like the one above to rings as well as fine home art to market totes.

She ships internationally and as a member of Team EcoEtsy you can bet your item will likely arrive in some extremely creative recycled packaging. Perhaps one of her very own envelopes! Even better news, Angela ships internationally and her cost to ship is low. Speaking of low cost, the price for one of her adorable, standard size brooch pins is only $7.50. I would spend more than that for something half as cute and made from brand new materials at a department store!

The only tiny drawback I could see was she does not show photos of the back of the items and I like to get a sense for how it will attach to my clothing. Due to this I am granting the first ever Four and One Half Leaf Rating!

Keep up the amazing work Angela, thanks for helping to protect the planet through your art.
♥love♥

Eco-Fashion Friday Featured Designer - Stephanie Teague of Pretty Birdie

When I came across Stephanie Teague’s shop Pretty Birdie on Etsy I was intrigued. Her photos were really well done and they drew me right into her shop. But after reading her policies and shop information I was even more eager to get back and write up her review!


Pretty Birdie is based out of Greensboro, North Carolina and has been open for five years. Stephanie is clearly committed to not only the planet but the satisfaction of her clients as she has a very reasonable policy on returns, even on custom orders. Although she may use the pattern of a piece again, each item is one of a kind as all her fabrics are 100% recycled, upcycled and reused. One might even say then that every piece is custom!

The primary item available in the shop is dresses. With a current stock of eleven to choose from she has something for just about everybody from sun dresses to more modern shapes. Many of the items utilize fabrics such as vintage draperies (like the photo above), flour sacks, quilts, leather and even upcycled cotton pillow covers!

On average the prices for couture, which will never be seen on another person, are extremely reasonable as they hover in the range of $165 with some more and some less.

Due to the fact that the prices might be slightly out of the realm for many I must grant Pretty Birdie a Four Leaf Rating but it is the only reason. I am uber impressed with the talents Stephanie possesses and her strong attention on the planet through her strict use of recycled materials. I strongly encourage everyone to check out her online shop.

Keep up the great work Stephanie, the planet will be forever grateful. ♥love♥

Whatever You Do Try Not To Forget the Corsage!

I have fallen in love with the eco-fun tutorials over at Threadbanger’s YouTube channel! As a mid thirty-something I do not plan to attend a prom anytime in the near future but for all of you younger gals (or guys!) who are handy with the machine, like to save a couple bucks, want to feel good about upcycling and are looking for something kind of unique or rad to add to your outfit this prom season, here is a quick tutorial on how to make your very own corsage out of some simple fabrics.



Have a safe and enjoyable prom!

Eco-Fashion Friday Featured Designer: Jess Pillmore of A Second Chance

Last summer I started my journey into eco-blogging by doing write ups and interviews for The Organic Mechanic blog and during those months I had the pleasure of running into many fine artisans from every genre possible. One of those amazing interviews was with Jess Pillmore of the shop A Second Chance. I enjoyed interviewing her so much it is time to feature her work yet again!


A Second Chance is full of pieces Jess has knitted or crocheted from upcycled materials, in fact every hand made piece is created in this manner and she has even begun offering skeins of the reclaimed yarn she uses, indicating in the item description:

“I pick high quality, gently used sweaters for my projects and for my yarns.”

Her price point for hand made knitted and crocheted pieces of this quality is moderate, with accessories at about $30 and tops falling in the $50 range.

In addition to her hand made items, A Second Chance also offers vintage pieces, which is another terrific way to “recycle” clothing!

Chatting with Jess was a joy as I learned that she ships in either recycled or once used materials and she will “drive to the thrift stores in a Prius.” Not only that but she donates 10% of each sale to Kiva, an organization which provides financial assistance via person to person loans to entrepreneurs starting their own business.

With such an eye on the planet as a whole, as well as her humanitarian efforts, I must grant Jess’ shop A Second Chance a Four Leaf Rating!

I am overwhelmingly impressed with her work and spirit and I hope everyone has a chance to visit her shop and see for themselves the quality work she completes!

Thanks Jess ♥love♥

Fused Plastic and Salvaged Fabric Laptop Bag

As a gal who enjoys whipping out the sewing machine and also someone who ends up with way too many plastic bags (regardless of using our reusable ones most of the time) I am very happy to have come across this video tutorial. This looks fairly simple, not too many steps, and will be a very personalized item. So cool!

Eco-Fashion Friday (on Sunday) Featuring Jennifer Brown

It has been a busy week over here and unfortunately I had to let the slightly more involved Eco-Fashion Friday feature slide until today. I really apologize but am very excited to share this amazing designer, her thoughts and work with everyone. So, although it is a couple days late, please enjoy this feature on Jennifer M. Brown of both Under the Root and Quarks.

Jennifer M. Brown is a gal with an eye for style and I first came across her online shop Quarks through our mutual membership in Team Eco Etsy. I was immediately impressed with her ability to take seemingly unrelated pieces and infuse them together to create garments that are not only budget conscious but have a strong vintage feel to them. One of the best things about Jennifer’s shops is that a gal can outfit almost her entire bod as Jennifer creates everything from undergarments to stockings, dresses, arm spats, hats, chokers and even a cloak for those chillier days (and even undergarments for men!). For fashion her price point is amazing -- most items hover in the $50 - $60 range with some more, some less. Best of all she utilizes sustainable, repurposed, reclaimed, upcycled and recycled materials in just about all of her work.


Because of her strong commitment to fashionable items that are fiscally viable to the larger public and her use of repurposed materials in her work I am granting Jennifer Four Green Leaves!

Please continue on to read the fantastic interview Jennifer was kind enough to grant us here at GLR, then stop by both of her shops to check out her fantastic work.

How long have you been creating eco-fashion?

I began assembling used/vintage textiles into theatrical costumes during the high school years. Wow, that was some 20 odd years ago. Clothing came next while using a secondhand, black lacquer Singer and the miscellaneous textiles from garage sales, thrift stores, estate and church sales, and reclaiming used/found materials. While studying Dance at Columbia College Chicago, I realized that costumes played an intricate role for the performances. The availability in movement and projection of each design was tantamount for dancers, performers and individuals alike. Today, each handmade structure reflects the use of cottons and the grace of the human body.

Where do you acquire your materials?

The designs are ever-changing and the materials are strictly obtained from sustainable resources, designer cutoffs, thrift stores, estate and church sales, swaps, and trades.

Do you try to acquire sustainable fabrics?

Sustainable fabrics came into my focus around 2005. The manufacturers were popping up all over and the prices were in my price point. Under The Root is leaping in this direction and my hopes are to educate, sustain, and grow with the future of 'gentle' structuring.

Are your designs OOAK?

I do many personal, custom pieces which are one-of-a-kind. In fact, that process is still a major foundation of the outlet for the deep-rooted artist in me. I love watching creations grow from visions of the beautiful people on this planet, and sometimes other planets.

Did you go to school for fashion design?

I began sewing in high school and started the first Fashion Club with the class of 1988. My teacher was careful, kind, and knowledgeable in so many areas of life, not just sewing. She cared for our time. The time I spent in that class with all the tables, machines, tools, and fabrics will forever be an inspiration for Under The Root to give people their desires. After high school, I studied Business, Design, and Dance. I read tons of practical applications and find the greatest source for continuing on with oodles of noodles and practice.

Thank you for bringing Green Leaf Reviewer 'under' the root of it all.

love.

Jennifer’s Official Website

Undergarments/Findlings -- Under the Root

Clothing/Accessories -- Quarks

Blog -- Under the Root

Fun and Funky Jewelry from Artwork by KD

Recently I chatted a bit with Kathy DellaValle, fellow Team Eco Etsy member and owner of Artwork by KD located in Susquehanna, PA, because her super funky jewelry really caught my eye as a fun and fresh approach to a hip retro style. Her use of bold colors and large shapes seem to scream hey check me out! Oh and did I mention all the materials used in her fashions are completely recycled or upcycled? She was willing to share a little bit of what encouraged her to pursue a career with an eye on both the planet and funky fashion.


How long have you been creating jewelry from recycled/upcycled materials?

A little over 1 year.

Where do you acquire the materials that go into your pieces?

I collect on a daily basis in my house (some kind of container is always being emptied) and I also receive lots of donations from friends and family!

What inspires you to create a piece?

I am inspired by colors big time!! They are usually my first inspiration. I love creating color combos that just make you stop in your tracks. Or a really rich color all on its own! Colors make me happy! Shape/texture come next.

Do you wear your own jewelry? What kind of reactions do you get from people on the street?

I wear my jewelry all the time! I had a post mistress that would order just about every pair of earrings I wore to the post office! It's great to get compliments from people in public. It makes me morph from artist to business woman; I then flash a business card and a smile ;-)

When did you become interested in protecting the environment?

Ever since I could walk! I always wanted to reuse things; it made me feel like I was hurting it's feelings to throw something away. Here's an embarrassing fact: When I was a little girl, after using a paper napkin I would keep it in my hand and call it my little napkin dog (I also did that with small brown paper bags too!). You can imagine the sadness when little paper dog went in the trash!

Are there other ways you are Green?

I recycle everything I can. Even tiny pieces left over from making things are sent to the recycle bin. I'm also a big conserver of water and electricity (I don't let the water run, I turn off lights when I'm not in a room, etc.). I enjoy picking wild apples and berries when they're around and making things from scratch. I park in a central location and walk to where I have to go and I also plan errands on the same day to avoid driving to town every single day.

What is one thing you do everyday that is considered Green?

Making wearable art from disposable objects and containers!

Do you have a tip for artists that are new to their industry?

Live by the 3 P's:
Passion - Love what you make/do so much that even if you don't make a dime for 3 months you still can't wait to wake up in the morning to get to work again.

Patience - Typically a successful business does not happen over night, maybe not even in a year! But you get what you put into things, so be patient and know success does not come fast or easy.

Lastly, Persistence. You need to have a daily plan and be aggressive every single day. Persistence in promotion, and in art making. Constantly try and make your work better, and think how you can reach more people. Sell at lots of shows. Don't give up! Everyday is a new chance.

Where can we find your items?

Web:
Artwork by KD Etsy Shop
Artwork by KD Artfire Shop

Brick and Mortar Locations:
Greenbeing in Scranton, PA
Earth and Wears in Dallas, PA
Pure Pennsylvania in Great Bend, PA
L'aveggio Roasteria in Binghamton, NY
Sea Hag Soaps and Art Mercantile in Brackney, PA

To keep up with the happenings of Kathy and her latest creations or show appearances you can also stop by her Artwork by KD blog which she updates frequently. She is running featured artist spots as well (I will be one of them in a few days too, thanks Kathy!).

Fun Eco Shops

Usually the first place I go to locate fabulous Earth friendly items is Etsy because it is easy to search and as a seller on the site I like to do the give and take. There are always some shops that stand out or items that blow me away and when I come across them I think “How cool this is an Earth friendly item!” Some of my current favorites are below. With the spring on its way, but winter still very much hanging on, some might be wishful thinking but I encourage everyone to get out to some of these shops and check out more of their awesome little goodies!

The Fairies Nest


The Hole Thing

Lucky Sustainables

Infusion

Anderson Soap Company

Recycled materials, bamboo fiber, all natural materials and upcycling are all methods or mediums used to create these fine items.

After the Holiday Comes the Clean Up and Clear Out of Toys

In my house we live by the ‘one out one in’ rule. If I purchase something new it is generally due to the fact that something else has completely worn out, broken, or become outdated to a point where it is no longer functional and has already made its way to a recycling center or charity. Since it is just my husband and I there are far fewer family members to determine the supposed need for the item in question. Even though we do not have children we do own some board games, stuffed animals of sentimental value and other items that are deemed “kid”. These items are a small portion of our overall possessions but for those with children it becomes necessary to locate an alternate solution for all of the toys the children in question no longer find appealing.

A friend of mine collects all of these toys and other items her children outgrow in a given year and sells them on craigslist to families who are looking for a toy in that growth stage at a reduced cost. She collects this money over the course of the year and uses it to completely finance their summer vacation. In the past few years she, her two sons and a friend have been taking tours of all the major league baseball parks in the country, seeing games and touring the cities they are located in. The trips are a lot of fun for everyone and they are making far greater memories by selling these items instead of placing them in boxes in the attic.

Not all people have the desire to spend their time uploading photos and descriptions of items onto an internet selling or auction site but there are many additional ways to recycle without going through all of those steps. Why not check in with local preschools, public schools, churches, hospitals or other charitable organizations to see if they would be able to utilize the toy in question. Another great way to recycle a toy is to check with local community organizations to see if there are families who have fallen on hard times and are in need of assistance. For new families in the neighborhood why not put together a gift basket of formerly loved toys that are still in great shape. This will help the family save a great deal of money and introduce the child to something they may not have had the opportunity to acquire otherwise.

Earth911 is a website dedicated to discussing the benefits to recycling just about anything from toys to bicycles to eyeglasses. They provide great tips for recycling parts of children’s toys like batteries or electronic components. As the world of technology improves, toys can become outdated faster but throwing them away leads to tons of e-waste being placed in landfills. Recycling these toys will help keep over half of all toxic waste out of landfills and stop potential pollution of waterways. In addition it will ensure less air pollution as emissions are not being released to construct something new.

Now that the holidays are winding down families are attempting to find space to store all of the new items that have come into their home and one of the easiest ways to do it is to recycle the old. What may seem boring to one child might just be the best gift ever to another.

Eco-Friendly Ways to Use Paper

As a person who always looks for ways to creatively reuse items that come into my house I started thinking of the number of pieces of paper that show up on a daily basis. The first eco blog I posted over at The Organic Mechanic was on creative uses for shredded paper and recently Charmaine sent me a link to paper flowers. In our conversation after receiving the link I commented on a way to use newspaper as wrapping paper. I wondered if perhaps there were even more functional or funky ways to use paper.

A moderate level of paper makes its way into my home and I find much of it ends up in the shredder. Generally I would just place a paper bag full of the tiny strips in my recycle bin but then a while back I ordered a gift and when the box arrived I was immediately impressed with the packing material used by the seller -- shredded paper. It opened my eyes to a new use for this material so when we moved we used shredded paper to pack items like dishes and it worked like a charm!

The paper flowers that I was introduced to are nothing like the crepe paper and pipe cleaner style most of us made in kindergarten. The paper items that Revolt Media creates are made from scrapbook and other specialty papers and are sophisticated and classy. Currently they are working on a custom order of origami style flowers in red and black for a wedding party. Upon the end of the ceremony the flowers can simply be recycled!

Charmaine was questioning what to use for wrapping paper since she had used up all of her brown paper bags. I suggested painting newspaper with appropriate holiday colors and then use it as home made gift wrap. This could be a fun project to complete with kids to make their gifts personalized. Everyone would have unique wrapping, making not just the gift but its packaging really special.

Writers can find many uses for old papers such as creating a personalized journal. By taking papers due to be recycled, cutting them down to the same size, stacking them and then Japanese stab binding the pages with a front and back cardboard cover, a journal is born!

Making furniture from paper has become not only an art form but a career for artist Jens Praet. By adding a bit of resin to simple shredded paper Praet has created everything from bookshelves to desks and he claims the pieces are even stronger than wood. It might be cool to keep those Christmas cards we never know what to do with at the end of the season by turning them into an end table.

With a little creative ingenuity we can find even more uses for all that paper we look at once and throw away.

Ho, Ho, Ho, Oh No!

With just a few short days left until the big holiday it seemed smart to feature a couple places where we can all acquire fantastic little goodies with expedited shipping…just in case!

Tree Greetings - Plant a tree for someone you love (under $10!!!)


Felted Finery - Felted wool (this shrug is only $15!!!)

Way Spa - Can even deliver via email

Reiter 8 - Funky stuff made from old ship sails

Repower America - Any denomination -- give the gift of clean energy

Or consider baking something and bringing it over!

Get creative and you are sure to be a hit this eco-holiday.