Energy & Sustainability

If you’re a maker just starting out your journey in sustainability, it can be overwhelming to figure out how to get started. From understanding the types of materials to utilize, learning what steps will help reduce waste and emissions, and finding inspiring new ways to explore creativity that don’t have a negative environmental impact. The good news is there are plenty of resources available for DIYers looking for ways to make their projects more sustainable – from simple switches you can make today, big-picture ideas for longterm change, or exciting new ways makers are helping push sustainability into the future. In these blog posts we’ll look at tips tricks and ideas specifically tailored towards diyers and makers on the road to creating projects with greater eco consciousness so that not only will you create something beautiful but also respect its impact on our planet!

I Heart Japanese Maples

I have always treasured Japanese Maples. Long ago I decided that Acer Palmatum were precious and began to covet them, and since then, my feelings have only grown stronger. I live in the redwood forest, where the trees are all evergreens. One reason I’m so attracted to the Japanese Maples is because they are one […]

Queen’s Tears Bromeliad

Queen’s Tears Bromeliad

Billbergia nutans is the most unusual bromeliad I have ever seen. Named Queen’s Tears, this hearty plant is called one of the most commonly grown bromeliads by Wikipedia, but I think she is a rare beauty. I picked up my first Queen’s Tears from a Brazilian at the Sebastopol flea market 8 years ago, and […]

Earth Day 2010: Caring for things

Earth Day 2010: Caring for things

Sweet songs never last too long on broken radios. — John Prine For Earth Day 2010, iFixit.com has announced an ambitious goal: To teach every person on Earth how to fix each thing they own. To that end, iFixit has expanded their wiki-like platform for online repair manuals beyond the Apple product line. In this […]

Knitting Green Challenge

Knitting Green by Ann Bud is for knitters who are comitted to the environment and are looking for projects with an organic or recycled twist. Personally I love using organic yarn and I love projects for bamboo yarn for the upcoming spring/summer months. All in all, this book has 20 patterns from sweaters, hats, socks, […]