I am committed to sustainability and always looking for ways to improve my production methods in order to reduce my impact on the planet and the environment. I also try to have a positive impact on the environment by working in a studio that uses solar power and using up/recycled materials, which keeps things out of landfills!

UPCYCLING & RECRAFTING: Upcycling is the process of converting waste materials or useless products into new materials or products of better quality or a higher environmental value. I try to use upcycled, recrafted, or repurposed items as much as possible. New projects include bowls and small sculptures built from papier mache (a mixture newspaper, wheat, and glue). I am using found papers (old maps, dictionary pages, and more) to create paper flowers. I also collect old eyeglass & sunglass lenses and using them to create jewelry.

PAPER PRODUCTS: I am currently printing my cards on recycled (30% postconsumer) paper which is made with 100% windpower-generated electricity; the paper production process is certified sustainable by GreenSeal and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Most envelopes are made with 30-50% postconsumer waste and are FSC-certified; they are purchased from a company that uses windpower and recycled shipping materials. I am researching paper options so my next paper purchase should be 100% postconsumer waste! When stores require cards to be packaged in plastic, I am using compostable/biodegradable EarthFirst PLA Film.

ART/CRAFT MATERIALS: I always keep my eye out for art & craft supplies that can be reused/repurposed from SCRAP, the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse, yard sales, etc.

STUDIO/OFFICE: My studio is in a building that uses solar power, greywater, recycling, and compost systems. Most of my studio furniture and storage came from the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse, yard sales, flea markets etc.