How to Sustainably Source Materials for Repurposing
When I decided that I wanted to start a business in the fiber arts, I knew I would have to find a way to make it sustainable (and cheap) to source fabrics. I had made bags for myself out of thrifted fabric before; so, I knew using thrifted fabric would be a great way to keep costs as low as possible while also keeping the carbon footprint of my business to a minimum.
Some materials have to be new in order to keep the structural integrity of the bags. Examples: the thread, zippers, and clasps. However, some materials can be second-hand. Examples: the fabric and buttons.
The first purchase I made for my business was some buttons on FaceBook Marketplace. I bought them all from the same seller so there would be less shipping involved. I bought many styles of buttons that I will use to decorate the bags and purses I make. The buttons are from "Stampin' Up" and are all discontinued as the company no longer makes buttons.
I think it is great that I have pre-owned aspects to my bags; as, landfills are overflowing with textile waste and discarded clothing. It is most likely that the fabric that I bought would have ended up in a landfill in a couple months.
I am hoping to become a business that changes how people view pre-loved materials such as clothing. Not everything used has to be brand new to become a new product.