Happy Earth
Day!
I'm a big supporter of the 3R's - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and in that order. First I try to reduce, then I try to reuse and then I recycle.
In honor of Earth Day, today's email is all about combining these 3R's and card making.
Reduce
I'm not going to go to the extreme and suggest reducing the amount of cards you send (on the contrary, I think we should be sending more cards). But how about reducing little bits on the card that don't interfere with the aesthetic or message?
- Reduce the amount of dimensionals you use - could you use 2 instead of 3 or 4 on a piece and not compromise the pop up?
- Reduce the amount of glue you use - a
little does go a long way!
- Use one less layer on a multi-layered card front (or use strips of layers instead of one large one).
- Make smaller cards - I love a 4-1/4" square card. You still get two card bases out of one sheet of card stock with left over scrap to use on another project.
- Reduce wasted card stock when trying out a new fold or idea. Sketch it out first with measurements and then create it - kind of like the measure twice and cut once
philosophy.
- Save the cards you receive and reuse them as part of your holiday display.
Reuse
- Reuse your cards!
- When sending a card, write your message on a post-it note so your recipient can take it off and reuse and send your card (with their message) to someone else.
- From a card you received, cut the front off and remount onto a new card base.
- From a card you received,
adhere a new inside panel over the written message and write a new message of your own.
- Make a mistake on one side of card stock, flip it over and use the other side!
- Reuse some of the packaging that comes with your supplies. I save all of the ziplock type bags that come with 6" x 6" paper, ribbon & embellishments to use on organization and storage of smaller items and even to transport little travel snacks. You can reuse the card board that comes with
12" x 12" paper to use as a scrap surface, sturdy support for 3D projects, dividers for organization or template creations.
- Reuse the boxes that kits come in. I love to reuse these boxes for gift wrapping.
- You can reuse ribbons and wrapping paper that you receive as gifts.
- Wrapping paper also makes great layers for cards - instead of pattern paper.
Recycle
- My recycling bin
is right behind where I sit so I can put every unusable scrap in it, rather than my trash (which I keep further away).
- Many times, reusing and recycling can mean the same thing (see above ideas).
- Not using certain supplies anymore? Recycle them by giving away to friends or organizations that accept used supplies.
I would love to hear what you do to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
with your paper crafting. Send your ideas and suggestions my way.
