Introduction – Why Use Eco Friendly Art Supplies?
If you’ve ever taken an art class, you know that there are a lot of different materials and supplies that go into making a piece of art. But have you ever stopped to think about where those materials come from, and what impact they have on the environment? It’s no different with art supplies. In this article we will look for ways to get to a carbon sustainable state, using art materials that are lower in carbon emissions than traditional materials. In the same vein, we will also look for qualities of lower toxicity, less artificial additives.
Carbon sustainability is the big theme at ShrinkThatFootprint. A carbon sustainable state means that the carbon emissions from aggregate energy use of our planet is less than the natural carbon sink that removes it. At the moment, we’re way over our carbon budget and continue to add carbon to the atmosphere.
More and more artists are choosing to use sustainable and eco friendly craft supplies in their work as a way to reduce their impact on the planet. Sustainable art supplies need to be high quality as traditional materials, so you can still create beautiful pieces of art without sacrificing quality.
Here Are 7 Eco Friendly Art Supplies You Can Use
1. azafran Organic Crayon
Eco Crayons are made from 100% plant-based wax. The Azafram organic crayons are an example of color crayons using plant-based waxes means that a closed cycle of production and emissions, that don’t require drawing any fossil fuels from the ground. Only the energy used to process the wax into crayons will count toward emissions.
Some companies offer a “Crayon Recycling Program” where you can send in your used crayons and they’ll recycle them into new ones. Not only are these crayons good for the environment, but they’re also non-toxic and safe for kids to use. In addition, Eco Crayons offer a wide range of colors, so you can find the perfect shade for your eco art project.
2. Art Advantage Frame Bamboo Sustainable Easel
Art Advantage’s H-Frame Bamboo Table Easel makes for a versatile and eco-friendly addition to any artist’s studio. Made from sustainable and renewable bamboo, this easel offers an environmentally responsible option without compromising on quality or functionality.
Despite weighing a mere 2.5 pounds, it maintains an admirable level of stability, which can be attributed to the durable nature of bamboo wood.
In its natural color, this easel brings an organic, minimalist aesthetic to your workspace, making it a piece that’s not just useful but also pleasing to the eye. As a small display easel, it’s perfectly suited for table displays, enabling artists to work on smaller canvases or exhibit their pieces conveniently.
Whether for creating or displaying art, the Art Advantage Bamboo Easel serves as a testament to how eco-conscious choices can seamlessly blend with practical design and functionality.
3. Eco Portfolios
Eco-Portfolios are eco friendly art supplies that help you to organize and protect your artwork. They are made of recycled materials and are acid-free. The portfolios have a handle for easy transport and Velcro closure.
They come in different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your needs. The portfolios are also stackable, so you can save space when you’re not using them. Eco-Portfolios are a great way to store your artwork and keep it safe from damage.
4. Natural Earth Paint
Natural earth paint is a safe, eco-friendly alternative to traditional art supplies. Made from minerals and other natural materials, it is non-toxic and does not contain any harmful chemicals.
Additionally, natural earth paint is biodegradable and can be safely disposed of in the compost bin. Unlike many commercial paints, it is also non-flammable and does not require special disposal methods.
Natural earth paint comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, red, yellow, and blue. It can be used for a variety of art projects, including painting, drawing, and crafting. Best of all, it cleans up easily with just soap and water.
5. Stockmar FSC-Rated Coloring Pencils
Stockmar’s FSC Certified Wood Coloring Pencils bring together both the ethical ethos of sustainability and the undying pursuit of artistic excellence. Made with responsibly sourced, non-toxic, and easy-to-sharpen FSC-certified forests, these pencils ensure safety and environmental consciousness alongside a superior coloring experience.
The artist-grade pencils provide a unique luminosity due to an intense concentration of color, bringing a vibrancy to your artworks that sets them apart.
They support varied techniques, including overpainting, gouache, wet-on-wet or wet-on-dry watercolor, drawing, and mixed media, thus catering to the versatile needs of modern artists.
The pencils are designed for comfort and durability, featuring a hexagonal thick barrel of 10mm with a waterproof, break-resistant lead of 6.25mm.
The set comes in a sturdy and compact cardboard storage box, which includes an opaque tin, a pencil tin, and a pad of paper, ensuring your art supplies are organized and protected. Stockmar’s coloring pencils are a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and artistic versatility.
FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council and is a non-profit organization that put together the certification together in order to promote sustainable products. The certifying bodies are different entities. These organizations are found here.
6. Eco Paint Brushes
Paint brushes are one of the most important tools for artists, yet they are often overlooked in terms of their impact on the environment.
Traditional paint brushes are made with synthetic materials that can take hundreds of years to break down, and the manufacturing process often results in toxic waste products being released into the air and water.
Eco paint brushes are a more sustainable option, as they are made with natural materials that are biodegradable and non-toxic.
In addition, eco paint brushes often come with recycled or reusable packaging, further reducing their environmental impact. For artists who care about making a difference, eco paint brushes are the obvious choice.
7. Eco-Art Pad
The Eco Art Pad is an affordable, eco friendly art supply that helps you to be more creative and productive.
The convenient size and sturdy construction make it perfect for on-the-go artists, while the natural materials and bright colors will inspire your creativity.
The bamboo cover is durable and stylish, and the acid-free pages are perfect for sketches, journaling, and other artwork. Plus, the Eco Art Pad is made with recycled paper and soy-based inks, so you can feel good about using it.
5 Criteria We Used To Find Eco Art Supplies
Many artists are now turning to eco art supplies as a way to be more sustainable and earth-friendly. Here are 5 benefits of using eco friendly art supplies:
1. Be Better For The Environment.
Eco art supplies are made from sustainable materials that have a low impact on the environment. This means that they won’t pollute the air or water, and they won’t contribute to deforestation or climate change.
2. Be Non-toxic.
Most eco art supplies are made from natural materials that are non-toxic and safe for both humans and animals. This is important for both the artist and the viewer of the artwork.
3. Be Biodegradable.
When you’re finished with your artwork, you can compost or recycle the eco art supplies. This is much better for the environment than throwing them in the trash.
4. Be Affordable.
Eco art supplies are often just as affordable as traditional art supplies. This is because they don’t require harmful chemicals or other wasteful processes to produce them.
5. Be Useful
Just because something is good for the environment doesn’t mean it has to be boring! Eco art supplies come in a wide range of styles, so you can find something that suits your taste.
Conclusion – Eco-Friendly Art Supplies
As an artist, you have a special opportunity to be a steward of the environment. The choices you make about the materials you use can have a significant impact on the health of our planet.
Fortunately, there are a growing number of eco friendly art supplies available that allow you to create beautiful works of art without harming the environment.
These materials are often made from sustainable resources, and they can be just as effective as traditional supplies. When choosing eco friendly art supplies, look for products that are made from recycled materials, renewable resources, or biodegradable materials.
You’ll be amazed at the variety of eco friendly products that are available, and you’ll feel good knowing that your art is helping to protect the planet.
