Before starting this I wanted to say we all need to remember the world’s environmental problems aren’t on your shoulders, big companies and billionaires are doing most of the damage and no amount of recycled paper and making your own inks will fix that overnight. That being said, small intentional choices can make a difference and add up over time, we can all do our bit to help out so I put together some of my top tips to being more sustainable as an artist.
Choose Sustainable Materials
Paper, inks, fabrics, where you source them matters. Look for recycled, FSC-certified, or eco-friendly options whenever possible. The more conscious the materials, the lighter your footprint. These materials often have unique textures and finishes that add character to your prints or homewares, giving your work a unique quality.
Upcycle & Reuse
Materials you already have? Don’t let them sit in a drawer. Scraps of fabric, leftover paper, old frames or even packaging can be transformed into something new. Upcycling isn’t just sustainable, it’s a opportunity for further creativity. We both know you have enough craft supplies already!
Mindful Practices in the Studio
Small habits in your day-to-day creative process add up,
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Use water and energy efficiently while painting, dyeing, or printing.
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Only mix the amount of paint, ink, or dye you actually need.
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Reuse or recycle scraps and offcuts where possible.
Skip the AI Shortcuts
It's no big controversial opinion to say AI art is not art! AI generated art is posed as incredibly quick and convenient but it comes with so many ethical and environmental problems, not to mention a lack of originality. Choosing to create with your own skills keeps your work your own.
Support Eco-Friendly Tools & Suppliers
From inks to packaging, there are suppliers who prioritise sustainability. Supporting them keeps demand high for greener practices across the industry and you know you are giving some of your hard earn profits to a company you believe in.
It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
Being sustainable as an artist isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about making intentional choices where you can. Every small change, whether it’s using leftover materials, sourcing eco-friendly paper or avoiding single-use plastics, it all adds up.
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