Sewing Green: 25 Projects Made with Repurposed & Organic Materials by Betz White
betzwhite.com
I’m so excited that crafter Betz White is stopping by CRAFT today as a part of her blog tour for her new book, Sewing Green: 25 Projects Made with Repurposed & Organic Materials published by STC Craft | Melanie Falick Books. I’ve been a long time fan of her creative work and her new book just makes you want to spend all Spring and Summer crafting! All the projects in the book are beautiful and emphasize sustainability from the aprons constructed from men’s dress shirts to the reusable sandwich wrap project. You’ll love crafting these beauties and will feel great that you are doing your part by crafting green.
And guess what dear readers? We’ve got a book giveaway for you! Two lucky CRAFT readers are going to win a copy of Sewing Green! Just leave a comment in this post letting us know why you want this book. The deadline for entries is Thursday, April 9th at 11am (PST). The winners will be announced here on CRAFT on Friday. Good luck!
We also have a special treat for you to get crafting right away with a project from Sewing Green! Download the PDF for the Nature Produce Bags. Stop using those plastic produce bags in the grocery store and sew up these eco-friendly reusable bags to shop for your fruits and veggies. What a great idea!
But wait, there’s more! Click for my Q&A with Betz White after the jump.
I got to meet Betz in person last year at CHA. She was promoting her first book, Warm Fuzzies at the time and was doing a few demos at her publisher’s booth. Since then, Betz has also graced the cover of CRAFT: 09, our green issue that came out last Winter. I got a chance to catch up with the busy gal and ask her a few questions on her new book and her crafty life and family.
Natalie: Tell us about your new book Sewing Green. What was the inspiration for writing this book?
Betz: When I was designing projects for my first book, Warm Fuzzies, I spent a lot of time scouring thrift stores for wool sweaters to felt. I couldn’t help but notice so many other “repurposing” opportunities. From sheets and pillow cases to jeans and jackets to table cloths and tea towels, the options for reuse are never-ending. I started to consider the environmental impact of so much stuff in the world, all seemingly destined for the landfill. I decided that I wanted to write another sewing book with an environmental angle. I hope my book helps raise awareness and nudges people to think about their choices, whether it’s reusing something that already exists, or by “voting” with their dollars when purchasing materials that are eco-friendly.
Natalie: Most of your projects are made from felted thrift store sweaters. How do you find such great pieces in a thrift store?
Betz: Actually, most of the projects in Sewing Green are NOT made from thrift store sweaters! While fans of my felted designs will be happy to see 6 of the projects utilizing second hand sweaters, the other 19 projects are made from Tyvek envelopes, vintage linens, organic cotton, second hand dress shirts, etc. As far as finding ideal items to repurpose, it takes practice! By making frequent visits to your local thrift store, you can get a feel for what days might have special markdowns, how often they get new stock, etc.
Natalie: You are great at refashioning clothes, especially for your boys. I loved your tutorial on lengthening their t-shirts. While refashioning, what do you look for in clothing that makes it good “refashioning” material?
Betz: For the most part, the fabric needs to be of good quality and intact, meaning no holes, pills, or worn spots. Collars and cuffs are often the worst! A favorite graphic can be cut out of a hole-y T-shirt and sewn to the front of a plain shirt. Better yet, applique it over a stain on another garment. One of my favorite things to reuse is all of the great pockets from outgrown cargo pants. The pockets can be cut off and sewn into bags for storing life’s little treasures. I’d love to write a third book on refashioning for kids! They go through clothing so fast, it’s a definite challenge.
Natalie: What’s a sewing or felting tip you’ve learned over the years that you like to share?
Betz: When felting a wool sweater in the washer, I suggest cutting the sleeves off first and opening up the underarm seam with scissors. This will help the sleeve felt more evenly and resist getting a permanent ridge down the center of the sleeve.
Natalie: As a crafty mom, how do you balance your crafty work and family life? What kinds of craft projects do you like to do with your kids?
Betz: I’m lucky enough to have my own studio space and I consider it an “open studio” in regards to the rest of the family. There is plenty of room and work surfaces for the kids to come in to draw and create while I’m working. Often times I get their opinions on new projects, and believe me, kids are honest. It can be a humbling experience! Projects that we enjoy doing together include making cards and soft toys as gifts. My kids also love making what they call Game Boys out of my empty plastic pin boxes. Best part? No batteries!
Thanks Betz for taking a visit to CRAFT today!
Join Betz tomorrow as she takes a visit with our friend Kayte at This is Love Forever and don’t forget to check out the rest of her stops of her Sewing Green blog tour.
Pick up a back issue of CRAFT: 09 in the Maker Shed where Betz shows you how to fuse plastic bags to make a hat and tote bag.
430 thoughts on “Book Giveaway, Interview, and Project: Sewing Green by Betz White”
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I am interested in winning a copy of this book because the concept of green sewing appeals to me.
This looks like such a great book! I added it to my amazon wishlist yesterday!
Yes, I’d love to win this book. I’ve recently been focusing on sewing much more than other crafts and I’m always trying to be as green as possible.
I would love to win this book as a surprise gift for my sister-in-law, who is a member of the Richmond VA Craft Mafia and loves everything earth-friendly. I know she would love this book!
This book is gorgeous, I would love to know how to make the reversible wrap skirt.
Way to go Beth, keep up the good books.
I just recently returned to sewing for the first time since high school and I am loving it! Getting green through sewing is such a great idea!
I would love to win this book because I feel like I just end up throwing away or donating all this perfectly good reusable material because I have no idea how to repurpose it.
I’d love to get a copy of this book. I’ve been buying new fabric most of the time, but I’d love to get ideas for picking things up to use a thrift stores.
I’m always having a problem getting started on ‘green’ projects, and it’s almost a struggle finding a cool one that works for me (and my limited space) that’s not difficult or demanding in effort/time/price. I’ve heard great things about the book but don’t have the pocket money to buy it at the time – that’s why I’d like the book :)
warm fuzzies and betz’s blog have long been an inspiration to me. i’m sure sewing green is nothing short of amazing!
Spring isn’t here yet (and I’ve no faith it’s ever coming to Chicago), but I’m still feeling full of zest and the need to clean and restart — to make the old new!
I am always looking for new ideas, and projects that are gentle to the environment sound great!
Because currently I’m killing the earth…one craft project at a time. Hooray for new ideas and inspiration!
I need it because I’m always looking for new ideas, and I try to be as green as possible when I craft. Thanks!
That leaf scarf is the cutest thing ever! And I bet everything else in the book is just as cute…can’t wait to check it out myself.
I want this book because my stash of crafting supplies has reached a crisis level and I’d really like to put this materials to good use.
The book is like exactly what I was looking for!! I love the idea of creating items using second hand fashions and vintage fabrics!! I will definitely love to learn new projects from the book!
I’d love to get this book. If I don’t win its already on my amazon list so it will be mine eventually. My mom just sent me my first sewing machine, and I’m just getting started in the craftiness. I used to help my mom and aunt with all sorts of crafts when I was a child and I’d love to spend some time crafting with my daughters, and making some useful items. I love the frugality and re usability of the items outlined in the book.
Thanks! And congratulations to whomever wins!
I plan to take the Wardrobe Refashion pledge soon and this book will help me to keep my word! Not to mention the cover model’s gorgeous color of hair….
I’d love to have this book!!
I would love to win a copy of the book… i am new to sewing, and love crafting & making things by hand … so would love to get my hands on a copy to get some great ideas!! :)
I have been saving old torn things for years, knowing I could make something out of them. This book is just what I need to get me to actually do something with the piles of stuff!!!
I would love this book because I love crafting and since my budget doesn’t always allow for new materials, repurposing things is very appealing. And it is good for the environment, so you can’t beat that!
This book looks wonderful!
This would be the perfect book for me. I am a novice sewer, and I already buy most of my son’s clothing at the thrift store.
(Betz, please get to work on that book about repurposing children’s clothing!)
I would love to win this book, because I can’t seem to part with my old clothes and linens. I have been looking for the right inspiration to re-use them!
With this new spring weather I’ve been trying to revamp my life. A little more green than it already is. This book like just the inspiration I need in order to get my butt in gear.
I love sewing, I was hooked the day I made my first dress for my Barbie doll on my toy sewing machine. And I always have loved recycling. I just don’t know why, but I would do it even before there was a general conscience about it. I guess I can’t bear to part with things and I rather see them transform and keep on living.
I love the idea behind this book. I’m trying to become more sustainable (reduce, reuse recycle! I keep trying to tell myself) and would love to bring that into my crafting.
This is such a creative and inspirational book! I would like to win a copy to give to my artsy friend, Katherine, who is also inspirational.
Ooooh what great ideas and what a lovely book. I would love to win it.
I work for an eco-conscious fashion house and am constantly surrounded by beautiful, natural things. I’d love to see Ms. White’s project ideas and whip them up as gifts!
i need this book because i dont have any sewing books yet! please!
I NEED to win this book because my family is flat broke at this time, my four boys are on break from school and something needs to turn it around. Winning a book would definitely be a start.
I’ve been crafting since I was little, then gave it up for awhile. I’m back on track, but changing the focus of my crafts on eco-friendly materials. This book would be great!
I want this book because I’m really starting to get in to the whole refashioning/recycling/upcycling craft thing, and I could definently use some imspiration to keep pushing me forward. Upcycling craft is not just about methods or even techniques but about looking at the everyday in as open and different a way as possible, and I need more practice!
Oh my goodness, what a cool book! I would love to have it just because I’m in the process of cleaning out my house, and I have all sorts of stuff I want to reuse and repurpose before I just toss it in the Goodwill pile.
I’ve already ordered this but I have a friend who would love it too!
I recently had a baby and it has definitely made me want to become more eco-conscious so that he can enjoy the same world that we know today when he grows up. This book looks like it has plenty of ideas to get started!
My husband thinks that I can bee silly for the items I save to recycle but is slowly starting to understand the importance. I would love to get this book to refresh my green drive to make this world a better, more attractive and cleaner place to live!
I always find books like Sewing Green to be inspiring and help me with ideas for all the “stuff” I’d love to repurpose in a more meaningful way. It would be wonderful to add this title to my growing collection!
Because I’m getting a sewing machine (a hand-me-down!) soon and I’m very eco-conscious – I am looking forward to doing some environmentally friendly sewing projects.
This looks like an amazing book! Thank you for sharing the free pattern.
I’m totally in love with the scarf on the front of the book!
I’m an italian biologist and a crafter so I love everything is in recycling (my room is full of things wich are waiting to became something else) and green. I love nature and so I love also things which are nature-friendly. I’m also a sort of newbie in sewing and I’m thinking to buy anyway this book also for gaining some experience in it (god, save my fingerrrrs!!)
The tuts in Craft:9 for fusing plastic bags was very clear also for a non-mother language as me so I think I will able to understand the tuts on the book!
I need this book because I absolutely adore everything Betz White makes and I’m a huge earth nut. What a combo.
I just listened to an old Craftsanity with Betz this morning. I would LOVE a copy of the book.
Ooh! Want! Want! Especially that sandwich keeper!
I’d love this book. I’ve already developed a stash of reusable grocery bags. I love using them and not coming home with a wad of waste. Now, I’d love to make over my kids lunch boxes.
I would love instructions on how to best reuse certain clothes. I have a bunch of stuff that could be reused, if I only knew the best way to do it.
This book is just stunning:) i could certainly put it to good use, for sure.
In anticipation of my eldest daughter heading off to college in the fall I am trying to reconnect with my artistic self. I have been following this blog and several others I have discovered by looking at this site getting up my courage to begin sewing and making art again. The book would be a great source of inspiration
Fantastic offer – thanks!
I would love a copy of this book!! I have just recently picked up sewing again and so far the majority of my projects have been created with re-purposed materials. In fact, I just sewed a messenger bag this morning using fused plastic bags! I can only dream of the possibilities with the help of this book…
Like Betz, I love repurposing. I can’t wait to see all of the great projects and tips she packed into her new book “Sewing Green.” Thanks for offering the chance to win a copy!
These look like well-explained chic projects, I would love to have this book on my shelf.
I would love to have the pleasure of owning this book because- I love Betz White and her creations- I try to be green with just about everything and teach my son the same-and -who doesn’t love free books!
I work for an environmental nonprofit and would love some tricks for crafting in line with my values!
I want these sewing projects. I am always finding old clothes at thrift stores that are not really wearable, but have plenty of perfectly good fabric itching to be re-purposed.
I would love a copy of this book as I am trying to find new ways to bring green into my life. :)
Oh, this book looks adorable! I try to be green by doing things like shopping at the farmer’s market, using reusable grocery bags, and reusing vintage fabrics and linens. I’d love to have a book of lovely new projects! Thank you :)
I would love to win this book. I have Betz’s first book and I’m sure this new one will have as many great ideas!
I don’t just want this book, I NEED it!
My goal this year is to throw out as little as possible and winning this book would certainly be helpful in my quest to repurpose and upcycle items I have on hand.
I sew. But I don’t think I sew GREEN. Why should I? What difference would sewing green make in my life and is it economically possible? I think this book could answer my questions!
–Katie B
I’m new at sewing but been going green for quite a while. Would love to learn new ways to incorporate the two!
Great book! I NEED this book because my library fines are spiraling out of control…how can you return great, crafty books? Plus, they never have the new stuff!
I want this book because as a college student re-usable items, especially those I can make myself, are a necessity for my budget!
I would love to win!
I support anything green and I want to learn how to sew green.
Ohmygosh, SOLD. On my must-have list. LOVE IT. I cannot tell you how much clothing I have kept, collected and saved over the years, specifically for sewing projects. Pick me for a free copy, hoorah!
I need the book for my mom! She is teaching arts to teens at a summer camp this year and she asked me just the other day what the kids would want to make with recycled materials. This is just the sort of book she needs! Giving her this one book will spread crafty, green awesomeness to dozens of central Illinois youths! Pick my mom!
My “someday I’ll need this” stash is huge. I just feel so guilty when I break down and throw something away. How jubilantly justified I feel whenever I am able to pull an item from my stash so that I can patch or repair something. I don’t have the “vision” to see an item remade. I think this book would be an awesome tool to help me put more things to good use by remaking them, and to teach me how to look at an item in a new light. I certainly have the inventory to get started! :) Thanks for the book give-away (& for the produce bag pattern-what a great idea).
Oh wow! I need this book because I save absolutely EVERYTHING with the *intention* to use things like this, but so far all I have to show for it is a closetful of “materials.” This book will inspire!
I would love to have this new book because I love Warm Fuzzies, her first book.
I would love to win this book as I have several old clothes that I don’t want to throw away and would love to learn how to use them for new purposes. Thanks!
I’m trying to raise my daughter in a green household. We’ve made a lot of changes over the past year, and I know we can do more!
I loved Betz’s first book and I can’t wait to see this one!
I would love to win this book because I’d really like to learn more about being green, especially how to do one of my favorite things – sewing! – in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way.
I would love this book. I’m always looking for ways to repurpose things I already have and don’t love into new lovable things. But I’m lacking inspiration – so this book would be just ideal!
I have a lot of fabric that I want to repurpose, but I lack inspiration. since I am a sucker for redheads wearing green I am sure this book would inspire me.
This book is on my wish list because my husband and I are working this year to do more handmade. Not only that, but I’m trying to buy less and use what I have. I’m tired of throwing things out that could be used some other way. I want to do my part in taking care of this world.
I’d love to make the sandwich wrap pictured! I’m always looking for ways to craft and live “greener”!
I have been a good little crafter who never throws anything away, so I have lots to work with. My sewings skills could use a kick in the pants and I think this book could help. I also run a monthly crafting group so this book could help me teach others to be more green.
I am trying to teach my children to reduce their impact on the world, they are so young that they learn best by watching. I’d love to learn more green sewing tips that could use with them.
This is a delightful book (from what I can see)! I would love to share these ideas with friends and family. I’ve been using my produce bags as bathroom trash bags but I like the nature bag idea much better.
THANKS!
I’m always looking for more ways to be eco-friendly and you know I love to be crafty!
Because I have a large stash of old clothes and other items I can’t throw away because there is some good cloth there, I can’t give away because they’re ripped, torn, or stained, and I’m tired of tripping over them. Sweet Nothings helped me turn my pile of old sweaters into new items and I have hopes for this book doing as much with other parts of the stash.
I am looking forward to reading the book, to get more ideas of how how to use my inspiration for green fashion and apply it to household crafts.
I would love to win a copy of this book — sewing and being green are both major elements of my life.
I would love this book because I have a small pile of worn clothes languishing in my closet, waiting to be repurposed. This book would be the perfect tool to help me get off my butt and get to sewing!
I would love to win this book. I have a growing collection of worn clothes that could use a new life as something else!
I would so love this book! I am back into sewing and being creative and this is a fab idea book to start with! thanks for offering it! awesome idea!
hugs Linda
I would love this. I’m always recycling materials, whether it be for my art projects, cooking (not in a gross abc gum kind of way!), or sewing. I can’t help but save every scrap of fabric I have, and I’m glad because I always end up using it some way or another! I love making quilts and pillows and lots more out of old fabic. I love re-purposing clothes too! Most of the clothes I own are either altered from goodwill purchases, handmade, or vintage! I like to get some more ideas about what I can make from this book!
Thanks!
I think crafting is all about finding new uses for everyday things, and I would love to apply this to sewing as well! I’ve recently taught myself how to sew, so the book would give me lots of inspiration for future projects!
We don’t make very much money, so we’re always looking for more ways to save. I also love to craft, so it would be doubly delicious!
I want this book because the small town i live in does not offer recycling. I’m always looking for other methods for being green.
One of my resolutions his year was to throw away/recycle/compost less and REUSE more. I’ve been making an effort to switch from disposable items to reusable items, and looking for ways to repurpose things I’m throwing away.
Lately I’ve been thinning out my wardrobe, and a lot of clothes are being tossed because of small holes or tears. Rather than throw them away, I’d love to get new ideas for ways to turn the material into new, useful items. This book would definitely be a great help and inspiration! :)
i’ve become really interested in sustainable fashion recently, so this book looks like just the thing for me :) i’d love a copy!
I would love to win this book! Not only do think the projects look absolutely beautiful, but I love the concept of sewing green! Thanks!
I love trying to sew green and i think this would be a great additional to my arsenal of idea books!
I would love to win this book. The past year or so my fiance and I have changed our habits with shopping and eating to make ourselves more green. This would help me convert my crafts to be more green as well.
this would be amazing for my mother….and for me too actually. Might give me a reason to give my sewing machine the printer’s position on my desk.
The whole idea of making reusable things myself is so appealing. The sandwich wrapper is so cute, I think it’s worth buying the book just for that!
I would love to win this book because it will help me achieve my goal of being more green. I feel that I am well on my way, with the planting of my organic veggie garden and the start of a backyard chicken coop…but one can always use a bit of inspiration!!
Although I’ve reduced my consumption of plastic shopping bags to near zero, I still use those plastic produce bags. I need an alternative, and this book has it. I need the book!
More like, Why in the world wouldn’t I want it!!! I love Betz White–add going green and you’ve got a perfect mix!
I would really love to learn more about green practices, especially as I start learning to sew. I recycle but only in the plastics and paper sense; I feel this book would teach me to start recycling in a whole new way, by using clothing and thrifted fabrics!
I’m definitely interested– always looking for ways to green up my crafting!
I would love this book because like many out there, the idea of repurposing in a time where so much seems to be propaganda regarding this new or that, I would love to reuse the classics.
I’ve been wanting this book ever since I saw it in the Melanie Falick catalog. I love to sew with repurposed materials and i’m always looking for great inspiration. Please enter me in the giveaway!
I failed miserably making reusable sandwich wrappers from an online tut a year or so ago, but I completely rocked sewing up an oil cloth lunch bag. It would rule to win this book, but I’ll probably just buy it anyway. :-P
I’ve been looking more into organic fabrics and trying to fit more environmentally friendly options into my life. I would LOVE to have this book to learn more about integrating being green with being creative!
Oooh, this would be an awesome book to add to my shelf! I love Betz’s first book, Warm Fuzzies, as well as her blog! Her projects are so easy to follow and she comes up with the most amazing ideas. This book is definatly on my wish list!
Now this is the craft book I’ve been waiting for! And I can’t wait to try out the freebie!
Because it looks like fun and I’m feeling the need to green up a little with spring.
I teach a seasonal crafts class to kids once a week, and it would be great to have some eco-friendly ideas in time for earth day!
I love being crafty, and I love being Earth friendly. I hope I win! I hope I win! I hope I win!
I learned how to sew from my mother and grandmother. I stopped sewing for a long time. I think it was almost 15 years. I just didn’t want to bother with it. Now that I have a home of my own I can see more of the value in sewing, and especially the value of incorporating green and sustainable concepts into the mix.
i am almost a year into “learning” to sew and i have bags of old clothes, stacks of old hankerchifs, and lots of odd and ends that were waiting to be thrifted, but instead, i want to make something “new” from these well-loved items. this book could give me the inspiration i need to get these items out of their bags/boxes/stacks and onto my shelves/around my kids’ necks/and used again and again. i would love to win this book (:
-kate
As Im finishing up my new curtains made of old sheets (Ill potato print them later), Im always looking for good ideas and ways to rethink using the things I have before buying new things. I would love to see what suggestions are in this book.
Thanks!
I would love a copy of this book. My biggest reason is that I have yet to make myself an apron, and I am sure the book has great inspiration for making one out of things I already have. Thanks!
I’d love to win a copy of Betz White’s new book! I loved Warm Fuzzies and I have a stack of felted thrift store sweaters waiting to be re-created. I enjoy repurposing, especially when I score some great find. Thanks for sponsoring a great giveaway!
I’d love to get back into crafting using recycled materials — we just have so much stuff (I’m discovering as we’re moving), so I’d love to avoid getting new things if there’s something that I can reuse!
I just did my first sewing project this past weekend…a small pouch. I thought it came out really nice (after 2 failed attempts) and I would love to try something else :)
I would love this book because I’m always looking for a new project. I love the idea of re purposing things and learning how to live a little more green.
I’d love a copy of this! I have made myself some produce bags, but they’re plain. I love the leaf detailing. I’m also interested in the other projects. I saw the sandwich bag and I saved the PDF to look at soon.
Emily
With the long winter we have had in Maine, I rediscovered sewing, knitting and felting. I also discovered Betz! I would love to have this book as she already has me hooked on using old wool sweaters!
dancingly, Denise
http://www.dancinglydenise.typepad.com
I would love this book because I have just gotten into sewing (thanks to my new machine) and my sewing was inspired by a previous craft post on reusable snack bags…LOVING sewing to be green!
I so want this book because I am obsessed with being green~ it’s hard some days when everything is being thrown at you but when you have projects in the back of your head waiting for that trash it’s a cake walk so everytime I can find a project that’s green is a good day!
oxxo,
tracie l.
I want this book because I want to start sewing, and what better way to start than sewing green? Learn it right the first time!
Hi. I’m a Girl Scout co-leader and I wanted to tell you how much I enjoy the Craftzine website. I have been working with the Juniors in our troop on recycling. We are using # 6 plastic (like the containers you get in a salad bar)to make shrink plastic charms, and making paper beads from magazine pages as part of a jewelry badge. Three of my Juniors are working on their Bronze Awards to promote recycling in our county. My husband has just started a 4-H group and we are also working on community service projects. I would love to get the book on repurposing materials to help with projects for both of our groups.
I need this book because I am a huge thrift store junkie and I love the ideas for using thrifted and organic mediums!
Thanks for the chance to win!
I would love this book because my husband and I just bought our first home and now that the house is done i am anxious to get sewing again and make things for our home! I would love ideas for things I can do on a budget and that are green since I am always trying to be green and thrifty. Besides now maybe I can think of what to do with all the scraps of this and that that I have been saving but unsure what to do with them.
I need this book for inspiration! I love the cover already!
I would love to win this book because I love to be inspired by people who are passionate about what they believe in!
This book sounds awesome. I can’t wait to make my own produce bags – wonder if these would work for bulk items like flour too?
I’d love to have a copy of this book as I’ve just started reading Betz White’s blog. She does a lot of different things but with similar thought process. I am always trying to use things I already have on hand in new ways.
I’d love to own this book because its projects are both attractive and green at the same time :) Being a novice sewer, it would be a pretty handy book to get started with. Also, that sandwich wrap looks awesome!
I work for a special education preschool program. Which automatically equals no spare cash. I’m learning how to sew, and I’m getting back into crafting after many years of undergrad and grad school. I also live in one of the greenest, craftiest, recycling-est areas you can imagine. It’s only fitting to learn how to sew green. And I need help. This book will fit the bill.
I’ve been drooling over this book on Betz’s various virtual promotional stops. Would love to own it.
I would love to win this book, the projects look so practical!
I’m a novice sewer (just figured out how to set up my very basic machine) and I’m looking for all the inspiration, instruction, and tips I can find!
I love to repurpose old objects into new, useful/pretty things – it’s so much more satisfying than cutting up new fabric (less pressure too!). I’m a novice sewer so I still need instructions – this book looks perfect!
I’d love this book to find out ways to make re-purposed gifts for all my friends!
I have recently been getting back in to sewing these past few months and have been looking for ways to recycle what I already have. I’d love a book that could show me how to do this!
Me and my new refurbished Pfaff would love to get green and get sewing right now :)
Who wouldn’t love to win this wonderful book!! Betz is a very talented person.
I read Betz’s blog nearly everyday and it’s so inspiring. Ever since she announced this book’s publication, I’ve been practically drooling over it! The world needs crafting books like this: less glitter, more marvelous green projects!
I’d love to win this book. I’ve peeked into it at the bookstore. There are some great patterns in it and I am getting into sewing and crafting with recycled items. Making lemonade out of lemons.
Anna S.
annasoc1(at)verizon(dot)net
I’d love to win this book. there are some great patterns in it and I am getting into sewing and crafting with recycled items. Making lemonade out of lemons.
Anna S.
annasoc1(at)verizon(dot)net
I’d love to win this book. there are some great patterns in it and I am getting into sewing and crafting with recycled items. Making lemonade out of lemons.
Anna S.
annasoc1(at)verizon(dot)net
I going green, i try to bring bag for grocery shopping and upcycling my old t-shirt into warming pads. I would love to see and learn more sewing green by Betz.
Well, here, in argentina I can´t easily access to books like this one. Even Amazon does not ship here, LOL!!
I would love this book, I wish I could win it.
This looks amazing. As a Mom of 2, I like to teach my kids about doing something with “nothing” or turning trash into treasure. From a thrifty standpoint, you just can’t beat making something from something else that you already have. Finally, from an environmental point of view, I think we throw away WAY too much. This book looks chock full of ideas to help me be a better person to the earth.
I would love to add this book to my library. I’ve just recently realized my capacity as an individual to craft beautiful things, and I would love to continue that trend in an ecologically friendly manner! <3
i’d love a copy because it’s gorgeous! it looks like it will be awesome inspiration. i love reusing fabrics when i sew, but i also have a hard time resisting new and shiny fabrics too, so i need more inspiration to make old things shiny and new instead!
I would love a copy of this book because I am both a big supporter of environmental causes and a die-hard crafter. Plus, I really admire Betz White and dig her style.
Thank you so much! I like to work with organic material and I try to be the more ecological as I can.
I’m home after illness, and crafting has been therapeutic for me, but I just never have been very green conscious.
Frankly, I don’t have the money to buy all kinds of expensive crafting materials, so I need to be green. I would love to own this book.
I want to be more creative, and being green means I’ll be more…. My crafting will be meaningful.
This book would be awesome… towards a healthier earth!
i be lovin’ me some betz white! always have. plus, how can you go wrong crafting green? (answer=you cannot)
I’d love the book – great inspiration!
I need this book for eco-crafting inspiration.
I live in New Zealand, which has a reputation for being a “clean, green” country. Sadly, that’s not really the case. Despite this, we’re trying very hard to make our lives greener and more environmentally conscious, because even small steps make a difference. Over the last year, I’ve made a conscious effort to reduce waste, use earth-friendly products (right down to switching to an organic hairspray), and recycle more. This book would certainly go a long way toward inspiring me to think more creatively about how to love my planet.
I love seeing the photos of projects! Saving the environment is one of the most important things we can do, and if we can craft more sustainably, that is a step in the right direction! I love seeing new recycling ideas!
Betz’s ideas are great and so artfully designed! I love her work and think recycling is something enyone of us should do, even better if we can create something new and cool out of recycled stuff! Thank you so much for the interview and the chance to win this amazing book!
Betz’s ideas are great! I love her work and think that recycling is something anyone of us should do. Even better if we can create something new and cool from recycled stuff!
Thank you so much for the chance to win this amazing book!
my sewing machine is crying for new projects!!!
I love Betz’ work and her last book. She rocks! I have had a very sad time lately, and I would love this book for a little inspiration!
Most of my sewing projects are already made from upcycled materials, but learning some proper skills instead of relying on my brain to come up with ways of doing things would cut down on hours of frustration, tearing out, and doing over.
I would really like to win this book.
Finishing my master’s this week, so back to crafting after too long a hiatus! This book looks like the perfect place to get started!
Just thrilled this book exists and can’t wait to read it!
I’ve been collecting items to recraft, but am lacking the inspiration!
Wow! I definitely want this book. I have been trying to get a closer look at the scarf on the front cover ever since I first saw info on the book.
Some recycled clothing books and articles are a bit too edgy for me – this one looks perfect.
I would love to win this book because I feel guilty about the amount of unrecyclable stuff I use, and the projects in this book look so gorgeous!
As a broke student now on holidays trying to figure out what stuff she could do/make for free, or at least very little money, the ideas in this book would be perfect! I’ve been hooked on the very concept of thrift/charity shops, as my home country had none of these things.
Oh how I would love to win this book! I have lots of handmade gift giving to do and this would be a wonderful resource! Thank you!
This book look fabulous! I love to repurpose items into other more beautiful things, especially as gifts.
I’ve been working on removing as much plastic from my kitchen as possible. Two of the project pictures, produce bag, and sandwich bag, are things I really need! This book would help me bring PB&J back into my sack lunch. :)
I live in area that is just starting to recognize “green” living. I would like to incorporate more green projects into my small business so that it reaches more people. Awareness is the first step to living better.
I am crazy about the sandwich keeper in the picture Can’t wait to see all the great ideas in this book! And reusing things we already have on hand sets a great example for my kids. Way to go!
I’ve found that a lot of upcycled crafts turn out to be things that are less good than the original – you like it because you know you did a good deed by recycling, but you still kind of want the real thing. This book is great because it shows you how you can make stuff that is better than the original – cuter, more practical, etc. It’s a real testament to forward progress in the green movement.
I”ve been drooling over this book. Amazon.com suggests it to me every single time I head over there!
I want this book in my craft paws; I’m always looking for some new ideas and awesome projects!
This book is amazing! I want a copy so badly!
I love finding new ways to re-use things. I think this book would help me to incorporate a lot more recycling into my daily life.
Ooooh! I’d love this book because I already sew with reclaimed/repurposed materials, and I bet there are lots of awesome new projects for me in this book!
I would love to check out this book! I just bought my first sewing machine from a sweet little old lady, and I would love suggestions for refashioning clothes!
I’ve been trying to get this book from the library…winning a copy would be even better! I don’t like to buy new things, always try to make my own, or buy handmade. This would be a lovely resource.
i am finally learning to sew, and sustainability and repurposing are near and dear to my heart! i love to get inspiration from everywhere… and this would be a good addition to my everywhere. ;)
I would love to learn how to reuse and repurpose items I already have into new creations. I would love to learn new ways of being GREEN! =)
Wow, would love to win this book!
Thanks for the opportunity!
Sarah
I’d like this book b/c I am trying to cut-down on buying new stuff- fabric, notions, etc. I’d like to use what I already have and need some cute projects!
I would love to win this book because its green and looks absolutely fabolous! I’m learning how to sew (properly!) and I love re- using, re-cycling etc…
x
I just got a sewing machine and can’t wait to try it out on the items I’ve collected. I’ve wanted to make sandwich bags like that for my family. This would be a great start!
Oooh! I am so down with a giveaway like this! Fantastic thing to share with us, thank you!
Great book! Woot!
I save all fabrics and old clothes to one day use in my crafts, and this book would help me put them to use!
WOW…how wonderful is this book?…altho, I have actually been re-purposing stuff for years and am a collector of great stuff…its always great to get another perspective and ideas ….especially from Ms. Betz!!…whooowhooo..thanks for the opportunity!
Creative blessings, Debbie/StudioBeeCreations
Thanks so much for sharing the pattern – that will come in handy instead of using plastic!
I have been following Betz for a very long time… have done some of her tutorials as gifts for my nephews and just love her work. Congratulations on another book published! My best to you.
Debbie
I often see fabrics for sale at estate sales and want to get them – old linens and cottons especially. This would give me an excuse to pick them up and use them!
I have been making reusable shoping bags for the past year as gifts for friends and family, and I would love to sew other green creations. This book is on my (long ) crafty wishlist, and it looks like a great one! :)
I have just spent a very frustrating half hour trying to post a comment. For some reason I have been in a strange loop where I log in to post my comment and am redirdted to log in again. I have perservered because I would really like to win this book. The book is beautiful! Not only that, but the contents are inspiring. I have saved numerous “garbage or recycle articles- these are sitting here awaiting their rebirth. What a wonderful help this book would be to me. Anyways, either way, thanks so much for your generosity in creating this book, and giving away a copy here.
I would love a copy of this book because it’s not available at my library yet :) I would love to be able to try out some of the adorable things that she has made.
I would LOVE to dive into this book and start making things. I’ve already got a huge stash of old fabrics and sweaters just waiting for inspiration!!
Thanks so much for the produce bag tutorial – I’m thinking Christmas gifts…already!!
I would love to have this book for 2 reasons. one: it looks interesting, colorfull, well made! two: no chance to get it in Spanish and in a library near my town in the next….years!!!
Mariel
I would love this for myself — I have tons of materials here that I can repurpose. But I have a friend who I would love to give this to even more!
I would love to have this book just for inspiration! I’m always looking for ways to get myself out of a rut and re-use what I have on hand.
It would be wonderful to win this book because with the economy the way it is my internet sales have tanked, my husband was laid off and I need a new way to save and or make money. I already shop in thrift stores all the time and I’ve been thinking that there’s all this great fabric and other things if only I could think of what to do with them! I have some way out of style clothes in my fabric box because the material is so nice I don’t want to get rid of it. Plus the book looks like a good fun read.
Karen
I sew green a little already, but would love to do more.
I love Betz’s philosophy of beautiful reuse. This book would keep me busy all summer.
I need to learn to sew. Also, I should recylce things more. These skills are very important now.
melodyj(at)gmail(dot)com
I’ve been sewing stuff for my business for so long I haven’t had much time to craft for my family. I love the ideas in the book. Things like produce bags and sandwich bags (those plastics that can’t go in the recycling) are exactly the kinds of things I want to replace!
I really want to make the sandwich wrap for my husband to take camping with him and one for me for work.
meg
onourwayonline.com
I would like to win this book! My daughter-in-law is committed to being eco-friendly. I would love to make her the reusable sandwich wraps and the reusable produce bags. I think she would love them.
Have a great day.
Donnelly
Would love this book for the sandwich wrapper pattern. My younger sister recently called asking me about one!
Would love to win this book for the sandwich wrapper pattern. My younger sister recently called and asked me about one!