Tips for Greening your Halloween
Even the dog gets to dress up!
Halloween can challenge those of us trying to be friendly to the planet.
Who can blame us when we turn up our noses at “organic cookies” when for years we have had an excuse to eat miniature snickers bars until we feel sick? Do I really have time to “sew” my daughter’s fairy costume when there is a plastic version she just loves (for cheap) at the neighborhood big box store?
At fabricwrapper.com, we are firm believers in little steps making a big difference. Listen to your conscience and try a few of these simple ideas:
- No, you don’t have to “sew” the costume. But there are plenty of no-sew options that will save resources AND money. Before you buy the plastic costume, try to look around your own house for alternatives. http://familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts/season/specialfeature/halloween_ms_costumes/, or http://familycrafts.about.com/od/nosewcostumes/NoSew_Costumes.htm. Or organize a swap with friends and neighbors. Don’t know anyone to trade with? Try your local http://craigslist.com/ or yardsales.
- Compost the pumpkin. Seriously, we know when there are worms coming out of the pumpkin orifices on the front porch it is more tempting to throw it in the trash. But throw it in your garden (think yummy soil!) or the back lot. It won’t take long before it is reclaimed by nature!
- Think about packaging. All of those little wrappers? They are trashy. Try to choose goodies that have as little packaging as possible. Giving out goodie bags at school or the neighborhood party? Make them out of fabric! Check out our easy directions for making your own fabric bags at http://fabricwrapper.com/
Hi – First of all, I’m a big fan of FabricWrapper.com and so thankful to have you here. Second, there is a great book called “Teaching Kids to Love the Earth,” available online or at REI stores. It’s full of creative, free ideas for adults and children to love outdoor life. Everything from a nature walk in your neighborhood to a full-on camping adventure. Thanks for highlighting the importance. GO FABRIC WRAPPER!!!!!!