Paper crafting is not inherently a low waste hobby, but many of us are concerned with how we can reduce waste in our crafting because it’s better for the environment and also better for our wallet. We love collecting pretty things and making pretty things so we’re not giving that up. However there are a lot of small changes we can to have smaller impact on the environment without having to give up our love of all things cute and colorful.
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You can read through the list on this blog post or download a printable PDF list to keep handy as you try to implement these ideas.
Product Swaps to Reduce Waste in Crafting
Switching out products we use regularly for a less wasteful alternative can mean lowering our impact without sacrificing much. Here are some product switches we can make:
Recycled printer paper or cardstock
Cloth instead of disposable wipes
Card stock scraps instead of foam tape
Paper confetti instead of sequins

Repurposing to Reduce Waste in Crafting
You can give new life to items headed for the garbage by reimagining their usefulness. Here’s a variety of items that still have a lot to give.
Cardboard from packaging instead of cardstock
Plastic packaging instead of acetate or vellum
Sturdy boxes/reused containers over new plastic storage
Reusing old calendar pages, greeting cards, wrapping paper, maps, etc instead of patterned paper (Click for a video example)
Save ribbon, twine, and other fiber from packaging



Products to Reduce Waste in Crafting
No Scrap Templates from JessCrafts.com/resources
Printable clipart from places like Creative Fabrica
Digital stamps
Refillable supplies (including Copic markers/adhesive/inks)
Multiple use products (Copic refills also alcohol ink/Distress inks also watercolor)
Sand eraser (fixes ink mistakes to save projects)



Habits and Lifestyle Choices to Reduce Waste in Crafting
Keep products in original packaging instead of stamp pockets or other storage systems
Thrift or buy used
Buy in bulk
Make your own card bases/envelopes (Click for a video tutorial showing you how)
Limit buying and reduce impulse shopping
Make the most of supplies (die cut from a cardstock mat, save leftover paint, or get multiple prints from ink)
Splitting with a friend
Recycle and compost as much as possible (plastic bags recyclable at store drop off, card stock is compostable)
Keep track of stash to avoid doubles (take pictures, make swatches)
Watch reviews before buying to make sure it’s a good fit



Enjoyed these tips? Get a printable PDF of these tips!





Where is your download storage organizer?
I believe I sorted this out in an email but please reach out to hellojesscrafts@gmail.com if you still need help.
Hi Jess! Thanks so much for another great video! I was wondering if you could link to the printables you showed in the video? Santa on a coffee mug was adorable! Thanks again for sharing your ideas!
Thanks Lee! They are available here: https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/hot-cocoa-mugs/ref/1532474/ (affiliate link)
Thank you so much!