Recycling and upcycling packing materials

Since starting my etsy shop I've been looking into ways to recycle shipping supplies.

I suppose some of it's economic (so customers don't have to pay higher shipping and handling fees), but it's mainly environmental. And I realize now that recycling doesn't just have to stop with a reused mailer, there are a lot of other creative and cool ways to recycle.

Many of these I'm planning on using, and not just with etsy, but hopefully with everyday shipping too.

The etsy forums have a lot of helpful hints, like:

Don't reuse Priority Boxes, not even turned inside out. This is not allowed by the postal office, and often they get angry about it.

Tyvek Envelopes were highly recommended when you have to go with pre-bought shipping pads. They are made from recycled milk and water jugs.

Several people recommended ironing used gift tissue paper.

Another tip I liked is to save the non-written-on side of Christmas cards for tags and notes.

It was also suggested that if you do recycle packaging that you also buy a stamp or tape that reads "I recycle," so your client doesn't think you're just being cheap.

Several people on the etsy forums said they turned cereal boxes inside out and used those as shipping packages.

These cool envelopes were made by Marmalime out of old maps.
I asked her about them and she said:
"Most of the envelopes that I re-cover with maps are tyvek or weather proof, plus I'm adding the extra layers of maps so I'm not too worried about leaks. I sometimes sew my own envelopes with packaging foam or bubble wraps and recycled maps, and then put orders in an extra plastic bag just in case."

There's actually a whole group on flickr devoted to etsy packaging. Not all of it is recycled, but it's good for inspiration.

I personally have gotten bubble wrap (called jiffy packs in the UK) from freecycle.

The Crochet Queen over on etsy writes her thank you notes on the back of monopoly money (from a set which has lost too many pieces). How cool is that!

Here's some instructions on making your own envelope. Probably best for personal use though, the post office might not like them.

There's also an etsy shop that sells recycled stationery if you're low on time.

I was impressed that many of Tamdoll's items are sent in pillowboxes that she makes herself. I didn't ask in time for permission to include the pic here, so you'll just have to click here to see it.

I was really happy to see there was a Youtube tutorial on how to do
it!


And now I'm off to make my own pillowboxes! Bye.