Sustainability:::pamper

Sustainability is posting a bit later than usual today because instead of being a diligent blogger this weekend, I was off camping with my husband and niece and nephew in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona, AZ. And as much as I enjoy a weekend full of dirt, sun, smoke, sleepless nights and out houses I could sure use a good soak in a bath and massage right now. But since I still have mountains of smokey laundry to attend to I thought I'd live vicariously through all of these luscious, sustainable, pamper products.

Enjoy!

1. Doodle Bugs Fun Fabrics - Luxury Bamboo Sleep Mask

I really love these 50% bamboo 50% organic cotton sleep masks from Doodle Bug. The design is adorable and the oversize mask and adjustable straps mean you'll get a custom fit and a light-free rest.

2. Good 4 You - Salve-ation

This all purpose healing salve is perfect for dry skin, chapped lips, beautification, cuts, and more. Organic extra virgin olive oil (Lucini hand picked olives from Italy) infused with calendula flowers, milky oat tops, burdock root, marshmallow root, German chamomile flowers & violets; local beeswax, organic raw unrefined shea butter, organic coconut oil, mango butter, bee pollen, royal jelly and the essential oil of organic lavender. And on top of all that many of the ingredients are organically grown and locally harvested.

3. Sudstress - Lavender-Patchoulie Mineral Bath Soak

Oh I want this right now. Made with Dead Sea salts (renown for their skin healing properties) and essential oils I can imagine a bath in this would leave your skin feeling baby soft and smelling wonderful.

4. Orglamix - Midnight Sun Eye Color Collection

These beautiful eye shadows are made with 100% pure minerals and without any synthetic dyes, chemicals or petroleum based ingredients like most of the make-up options out there. I love that their color collections are totally affordable and take the guess work out of the morning make-up routine. This combo would be great for daily wear for a simple girl (like myself) but check out their hundreds of colors and combos and you'll find something to dress up your eyes for every occasion.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::fashion

Before I get on with this week's sustainable picks I'd like to say thanks to all of you who have been so encouraging of this series. It's definitely been the most fun, natural and peaceful endeavor I've set out on since I started the Paper Mango blog a little over a year ago. With that in mind, I'm adding a bit more structure to the series to keep it going on the straight and narrow. From now on you'll see post titles like today's with different genre's of sustainable products taking the spotlight. Upcoming posts will feature - :::pamper, :::home, :::food, you get the picture. Have a genre you'd like to see featured? Leave a comment and I'll get to work! Now on to some honestly hot sustainable clothes!

1. Zelaya - Pebbles Top

This adorable top is made from organic cotton and features a scoop neck and raw edges. The "pebbles" are crafted from remnant fabric and then sewn on. How clever!

2. Flytrap - Feather Tee

You can throw this 100% organic cotton tee on with your rattiest jeans and gardening clogs, if you want to, but it will be equally at home with a pretty cotton skirt and leather sandals. It is "honest-to-goodness" preshrunk which will help to avoid those dryer surprises when your boyfriend/husband/roommate/brother does the laundry!

3. Infusion - Eco Toes

These adorable shoes are in limited edition so go snag them fast! Made with golden yellow organic cotton, lined with up-cycled linen so they are sustainable & stylish. The straps are secured with velcro and topped with a natural wooden button. The sole is a rugged natural hemp canvas. My tootsies could seriously slip into these right now.

4. Econica - Cranberry Coat

A beautiful, soft spring (or middle of winter here in PHX) coat in light cranberry. The outer shell is made with thick and plushy organic cotton fleece and lined with "LILLIES" print cotton jersey.

Happy shopping!

Sustainability:::Mastering the Art of Julie & Julia

Being the Norah Ephron, chick flick movie loving, foodie that I am the movie Julie & Julia was pretty much made for me. I remember growing up watching Julia Child on TV and thinking she was some sort of Seseame Street character because of her lively presence and boisterous laughter. Since watching the movie I've had a renewed passion for being in the kitchen and was compelled to compile a collection of sustainable items that would partner well with French cuisine. Enjoy!

1. Love Lane - Reuseable Produce Bag Set of 3

These light weight produce bags are not only super cute, but they are super functional. Use them for all your veggies, fruits, grains, etc and if dampened, the bag will keep produce crisp in the fridge. Hand screen printed with low impact dyes. They are the perfect substitute for those flimsy plastic things at the store.

2. Wood Elements - French Rolling Pin

Oh! This handmade rolling pin just inspires me to want to bake some deliciously unhealthy pastry or a flaky pie crust. Mmm, I can taste it now!

3. Mile Marker 3 - Recycled Blue Glass Cheese Plate

This cheese plate has been crafted from a repurposed wine bottle and now is ready to serve up some brie. Bon appetit!

4. Archibald Designs - Multi-Striped Breadboard

Love this! Made by using leftover scrap wood from furniture building, these serving boards are a beautiful tribute to recycling. All of the woods used in these boards come from domestically harvested hardwoods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSCt. They are made using non-toxic glue and finished with organic walnut oil.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::I Heart Plants

I've referred to my serious lack of gardening skills numerous times. But I'm so determined to learn how to grow an edible garden here in the desert that it's become a bit of an obsession. So continuing with that theme here is this week's Sustainability picks with an ode to all things plant related.

1. Twofold - Recycled Magazine Vase

This fantastic vase gets it's color and texture from recycled pages out of magazines. Glass on the inside and coated with a waterproof sealant, your recent garden trimmings will shine in this eco-friendly vase.

2. Andrew's Reclaimed - Herb Planter from Reclaimed Cedar

The only think I haven't completely killed in my garden is basil and thyme, so I'm quite partial to herbs. This reclaimed cedar herb box would be great for starting from seeds before transplanting elsewhere.

3. Amaris Arts - Chives Miniature Wall Piece

I've been eying Amaris Arts burned wood art pieces for quite a while. I love these mini pieces because they come with a magnet strip to beautify your refrigerator and wire if you'd rather hang a collection of them on a wall. Created from a recycled Bordeaux wine box.

4. Sudstress - Goat's Milk, Organic Oatmeal and Local Honey Soap

Though this soap looks good enough to eat, I'm guess it will do a better job of moisturizing your skin than filling your belly. Made with orgainc oatmeal and honey that is locally harvested so you can feel good about cleaning up.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::Back to School!

Yep, it's that time again. The time of year where I'm thankful that my formal schooling is over and where I am reminded that those 35mph signs are back in effect again. It's back to school season!
And I thought I'd join the celebration with a special BTS edition of Sustainability. There are lots of goodies here that will get your kids (or yourself!) excited about being one of the "greenest" students in class. So, enjoy the finds. And if there's something you need, but don't see, hop on over to Etsy and do a quick search and support sustainable, handmade businesses!

1. Infusion - Hemp Messenger Bag
This messenger bag is not only super cool and super handy, it's super green! The outer lining is made from 100% unbleached and undyed hemp and there's all sorts of pockets, pouches and clips which I need so I don't lose my keys.

2. Baby Momo - Organic Cotton Nap Mat
First things first, this picture is stunning! Now on to the product. This nap mat is 100% organic Cotton/Bamboo Nap Mat and is the correct dimensions for schools that require standard sized nap mats. All materials are safe, organic, sustainable and low-impact dyed!

3. Doti - KISS vintage record album turned into a journal/notebook
This. Is. Awesome. A vintage KISS album cover turned into a notebook. Even better? The actual vinyl record is the divider helping keep all of your subjects organized and rocking!

4. Moja Creations - Snack-A-Long Reusable, Eco-friendly Snack Bag
Tired of buying and tossing plastic zipper bags after one use and thinking there must be a better way? Enter Moja Creations reusable snack and lunch bags! Made with a waterproof and washable nylon or pro-care lining you can put your sandwich in this puppy again and again. They come in a variety of sizes and shipping is FREE in the U.S. through the summer.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::Vintage wood & paper, big cushions and little wristlets

As you're reading this, I am most likely somewhere in the middle of New Mexico or Southern Arizona. We're driving on our way back to the AZ after a rowdy weekend in Dallas for my brother's wedding. But, thanks to the magic of technology, here is Sustainability, in it's proper time and place. Enjoy!

1. Farm Frames - 4x4 mint green vintage wood frame
*Sigh* Oh how I want this frame. Hand-crafted in Wilmington, NC - this is a 4" x 4" picture frame made from reclaimed, salvaged wood from an old house. I think this frame single handedly knocks out all three "R's" of the Recycle, Reduse, Reuse philosophy.

2. La Pomme - The Really Big Lavender Bag herbal cushion
This "really big" lavender bag is meant to go right on your beg along side all of your other cushy pillows. It is filled with at least 125 grams of pure, fragrant lavender flowers from France and made from recycled fabric. I feel less stressed just thinking of floating off to sleep with lavender lingering in the air.

3. My Studio - Organic Cotton and Bamboo Wristlet
This gorgeous wristlet is a great size for all your essentials when you want to travel light. Made from fabric by Robert Kaufman from his GreenSTYLE line it is 60% organic cotton and 40% bamboo and printed with environmentally low impact dyes.

4. CrowBiz - Anatomical Heart on Vintage French/English Dictionary
Not really sure what to say about this one, except that I love it and want it in my office for inspiration. I feel like I could look at it for hours and not get bored. Printed on salvaged book pages so no additional trees were harmed in the creation of this art.
* This print seems to be quite popular and sells out quickly. If it's not there when you click through, check back in a day or two.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::Brought to you by the color Brown!

As I was "shopping" for this week's Sustainability picks I realized I was being drawn to all things brown. So, welcome to the first ever color inspired version of Sustainability! Enjoy!

1. A Little Birdy - Reusable Cup Cozy
I probably should've saved this item for a cold winter day when the thought of a hot cup of coffee was appealing. However, being that it's 111 degrees outside and I'm still in love with this coffee cup cozy, I figured I should share it. This reversible and reusable cozy will keep our landfills clear of those brown cardboard things you get at the store. Sweet!

2. Infinity Art - Owl Desk Clock
I just think this little owl is too cute. I think he would fit nicely on my desk to remind me how fast the day is, yet again, flying by. The best part? He's made of 100% recycled wood and VOC free paint.

3. Orno - Pointy Teardrop Walnut Earrings
Love (LOVE!) these! Orno uses wood harvested from sustainably managed forests in the US and for every pair of earrings you buy, they plant a tree in the rainforest in Brazil. This is a win, win, win!

4. Brainscan - Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee
These beans sound divine. Organic, fair trade, single origin, light roast...yes please! I may have to crank down the A/C and brew up a pot.

Sustainability:::Glass straws, edibles, v-necks and coasters

I've got another lovely group of sustainable goodies to share this week. So let's cut the chit chat and see the pretties!

1. Straws by Carli - Glass Bended Straw
I love theses reusable glass straws from Carli. They are made of the same glass at Pyrex so you know they're never going to break, they are microwave and dishwasher safe and she uses local glass. I'm envisioning sipping some fresh mango juice with one of these fun straws. Mmmmm.

2. Rikrak - Vintage recycled fabric quilt coasters
These coasters have been on my "to blog" list for a few weeks now. I love the cheery green color and vintage pattern. They are handmade and re-purposed from a vintage bed sheet. Awesome! If green doesn't suit your fancy, there are about a million other patterns to choose from. Check them out!

3. My Victory Garden - Heirloom Oregon Giant Snow Pea Seeds
It doesn't get much more sustainable than growing your own food. I'm a very unsuccessful gardener, but I always try to at least have some fresh herbs in a pot some where. It saves so much money and there's nothing like picking food fresh off the vine for dinner. These snow peas look absolutely scrumptious and are a dwarf variety so they don't need tons of room to grow. Not into snow peas? My Victory Garden has seeds for everything from salad ingredients to peppers to okra. Yum!

4. My Dear Thing - Double V shirt
This stunning shirt is made of a organic cotton/bamboo/spandex blend which means it makes you look good and makes the earth look good all at the same time. A good t-shirt alternative that can easily be dressed up or down.

Happy Shopping!

Sustainability:::Bottle Stoppers, sea ceramic, felt and pottery with a purpose

Hello Friends!
I don't know if you enjoy reading this Sustainability series, but one thing is for sure; I LOVE "shopping" for them. I just continue to be blown away by the creativity and resorcefulness of artists, designers and craftsman that are working hard at working green. Way to go everyone! And don't forget, if you or anyone you know has an eco-friendly enterprise, leave me a comment and let me know they should be featured! I'm just getting started.

1. Lucky Sustainables - Banksia Bottle Stopper
I love all of the bottle stoppers over at Lucky Sustainables, but this one called to me especially as it's from a tree native to my adopted country, Australia. All of their products (they create more than just bottle stoppers) are crafted out of reclaimed, recycled or renewable wood sources.

2. Seashaped - Sea glass Pottery Necklace
I love aesthetic of traditional sea glass jewelery and quickly became smitten with this necklace created from a piece of broken sea pottery. Was it a plate? A coffee mug? We'll just never know. But now it's a beautiful necklace with new stories just waiting to be written.

3. Home to Roost - Leafy Green & Mint wool felt pillow
Felt always conjures up memories of elementary school crafts and science project displays, but who knew it could look so classy? I love these pillows at Home to Roost because they are eco-friendly inside and out. No clumpy batting here! And make sure to check out their adorable new blog at www.goinghometoroost.com!

4. Just Potters - Bright blue ceramic soap dish
JustPotters is one of the innovative social enterprises of JustWork Economic Initiative. They employ individuals with barriers to traditional employment and assist those facing physical disabilities, mental illness, homelessness and addictions; they also work with refugee claimants and low-income single parents. And not only are they doing a beautiful thing, they are making beautiful things! I want everything in their store, but especially this cheery soap dish!

Sustainability :: Leashes, leaves, lemons, lamps and alliteration!

If you missed the premier of the new Sustainability series last week, go check out what it's all about here. This week's picks are sponsored by the letter "L". It really was pure coincidence, promise! All of these luscious lovelies are being added to my wish list. Please visit their shops and see all of their beautiful offerings.

1. Annie's Sweat Shop - Recycled Silk Necktie Dog Leash
Since adopting our little girl I'm always on the lookout for cute and affordable dog gear. Annie's Sweat Shop accomplishes both of those with the added bonus of using recycled and sustainable materials. Another perk, send in your old dog collar to recycle with Annie and you'll get $5 off your order!

2. BeSem Natural Scents - Lemon Tea Palm & Beeswax Candle
With scents like Vanilla Chai, Pink Grapefruit, Rosemary Mint and bunches more I could easily spend a fortune over at BeSem. Their wax is harvested from local, sustainable farms, their scents are created with pure essential oils, they don't use glass jars to cut back on waste, and 10% of their profits go to orphan relief!

3. Wired Originals - Wire wrapped leaf earrings
I'm a minimalist when it comes to jewelery, but every girl needs a bit of shine every once in a while and I am in love with Wired Original's creations. All of the wire is created from 100% reclaimed/recycled silver then handformed and hammered into all sorts of creative designs.

4. Bird Wing Productions - Gypsy Drum recycled lamp
I love this recycled and repurposed lamp. Originally a brass relic, this lamp has been given a new life with some TLC, paint and bright fabric. With lots of styles to choose from, there's definitely something at Bird Wing to add a little fun to your home!

{New Series} Sustainability :: Pillows, tea, purses & deer

One of the foundations of Paper Mango is to live, work and create in ways that have a minimal negative impact on our beautiful planet. All of our stationery from birthday cards to wedding suites are printed on post-consumer recycled paper. To me, this is just a given. So I was driving a long the other day listening to an NPR report about the rapid growth of sustainable living methods around the world and started thinking it would be great to have a series here dedicated to green, eco-friendly, recycled, sustainably created products. There are so many of us in the handmade, crafty, micro-business world that function in ways that are far more environmentally friendly than the big companies and corporations and that is exactly what I want to start bringing attention to.

For this first round I have found some absolute gems! They are:
1. Alexandra Ferguson's Tree of Life Recycled Bottle Felt Applique Pillows
These pillows are made from felt that is 100 percent post consumer recycled water bottles. Each pillow is approximately the equivalent of 4 bottles that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill!

2. Wildroot Botanicals - Mint Melodies Tea
I am a sucker for mint tea and this combination looks divine. All the herbs are organic, locally grown, ethically wildcrafted, fair trade certified and freshly picked from their gardens each year.

3. Mingus - The Birds Standing Hemp Purse
Constructed from a sustainable and eco-friendly taupe coloured 90% hemp and 10% yak hair fabric. This purse features Mingus' 'The Birds' illustration that has been hand screen printed onto the front with red water based inks.

4. cj8n - Micro Buck Small Deer Head
No animals were injured in the making of these little guys. Each trophy is made from recycled cardboard, a non-toxic, environmentally friendly product.