I was pleased to see Michelle Millet’s forum piece on reducing the waste stream by bringing coffee mugs, shopping bags and utensils. This requires some self-sacrifice and discipline. I’d like to add that there is another way to reduce waste, but it’s more like a treasure hunt.
Consider upcycling. Most people have no idea that one damaged dresser can become a set of shelves, a rabbit hutch, a bathroom vanity chest and raised bed planters (made from the drawers). Second-hand clothes can be refashioned for less money than buying fabric. Furthermore, it’s fun. If you don’t believe me, take a look at ideas I have collected at the following websites: http://www.pinterest.com/sallyozma/refashioned and http://www.pinterest.com/sallyozma/upcycled.
On June 1, the Square Tomatoes Crafts Fair will hold an Invention and Upcycling Contest. (Our upcoming fair on Sunday, May 4, is “Moms, Mayans and Mexico,” a celebration of mothers and folk art.)

The Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Invention and Upcycling Contest and we are looking for second-hand stores, hardware and art supply stores, nonprofits and city agencies to join us. When people upcycle, everyone wins.

We are also looking for furniture redo wizards, maverick stylists, tinkers and makers to join our Invention and Upcycling Contest for a $50 prize. Contestants bring their entries on fair day to Central Park. Couches or inventions too big to bring can be displayed by a photo.
Keep looking at our Square Tomatoes Crafts website or email me at [email protected].

Sally Parker

Davis

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