How to make eco-friendly art

Do you make a living as an artist or simply love to sketch and paint in your free time? If so, you may want to evaluate the materials you use to create your art. The truth is that many types of inks, paints, varnishes, and fixatives come in non-recyclable packaging or contain ingredients that contribute to pollution. If you want to make art while also protecting the environment, here are some suggestions.

Green materials
Many art supply stores stock environmentally friendly products, the quality of which may surprise and delight you. Here are some examples of items you may want to try:

• Rehydrating paint made from cornstarch and natural pigments
• Non-toxic paint made from walnut oil
• Glitter made from eucalyptus
• Crayons made of soy wax
• Natural fixatives made with a base of casein or grain alcohol
• Erasers made from recycled rubber
• Gum Arabic paint binder
• Refillable pens and markers
• Recovered materials like glass or plastic
• Plant-based paintbrush cleaners
• Watercolors made from vegetable pigments
• Brushes or pencils made from wood grown in sustainable forests
• Sketchbooks made of recycled paper

Using eco-friendly materials to make art will likely become the norm one day. Opt to become a part of the movement sooner rather than later, and be sure to spread the word.

Not an artist yourself? Consider gifting the creative people in your life with eco-friendly art supplies for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.