Sustainability

In the crafting and jewelry-making industry, tons of supplies and packaging serve little purpose. As a rule, we should be using more of what we have, which is why I take steps to reduce wastefulness and improve the gifting experience. While it's nearly impossible to make anything without impacting the environment, paying attention to the true value and longevity of a product makes a world of difference.

At phaze Creations, this is done by:

Minimizing waste — I repurpose all sorts of supplies and packaging, including bags and boxes. I organize and store my supplies using things we traditionally toss or recycle, like Talenti jars for bead storage and basic clamshell boxes for sectioning paper and cord.

Repurposing packing materials — If it's in great shape, I'll use it. I also reserve incoming shipment packaging for packing things sold on auction sites, or for shipping vintage finds.

Upcycling — It all started when I realized some resin shoe charms were going to get tossed. I took them, used clean methods to remove the charm buttons, and sanded the backs, turning them into cover minders. Any product marked "upcycled" means something saved from the trash or recycle bin, using minimal resources to convert it into something else.

Kraft and Burlap packaging — As a rule, I only purchase more sustainable shipping and packaging supplies. Of course, some items are packaged in plastic zipper-style bags or organza bags, but these are new items I've received in supply shipments, rather than purchased. In short, if it's here, I will use it rather than toss it.

Environmentally friendly cleaning — Upcycled purses or similar finds undergo a simple yet effective cleaning process using organic lavender and the power of our Sun.

Repurposing supplies — If something doesn't sell, or if I have too much a certain material, it doesn't get trashed. Ever. It's either repurposed into other projects or included in one of my grab-bag sets I offer here and on other channels.