24
ISSUE 01 TINY GARDENS Grow veggies in your kitchen YES! YOU CAN RECYCLE THAT Recycle almost anything FUTURE OF FARMING See the power of aquaponics

Verde Home & Garden Magazine

Embed Size (px)

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to the premier issue of Verde, a home and garden magazine for the green do-it-yourselfers. Verde translates to green and breaks down into the phrase to become, essentially Verde is helping you become green. What you are holding in your hands will share and motivate you to embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Citation preview

  • ISSUE 01

    TINYGARDENS Grow veggies in your kitchen

    YES! YOU CANRECYCLE THAT Recycle almost anything

    FUTURE OFFARMING See the power of aquaponics

  • Hey there!

    Welcome to the premier issue of Verde, a home and garden magazine for the green do-it-yourselfers. Verde translates to green and breaks down into the phrase to become, essentially Verde is helping you become green. What you are holding in your hands will share and motivate you to embrace both a simple and eco-friendly lifestyle.

    This premeir issue, youll find an inspiring story from one of Milwaukees indoor aquaponics farm, Sweet Water Organics, in Anna Stephenss The Future of Farming, how to show off your green thumb in your kitchen through Marie Iannottis Tiny Gardens, and Danny Seo will share twelve things you didnt know you could recylce in Yes, You Can Recycle That. No issue of Verde will ever be without a unique Decorate It Yourself, DIY, that share clever upcylcing ideas you can use to spruce up your home. Youll also find our Green Fix infographic section that gives you quick, green fixes for your house and budget. Lastly, our Creative Genius interview series that showcases indiviudal artists and do-it-yourselfers. Without a doubt, Verde will transform your home, your garden, and yourself. Become Verde.

    01

    THE EDITORLETTERfrom

    JOSH zelasko

  • ELLEN foord 17 Creative GeniusTake an inside look at Alice Saunders Forestbound, her very own upcycling startup, Forestbound.

    This month learn how to take an old tray and turn it into a brand new beautiful center piece.

    JANELLE beals 09 Decorate It Yourself

    An inspiring story of Verdes very own Anna Stephen and her experience at Milwaukees Sweet Water Organics.

    ANNA stephens 11 The Future of Farming

    Each year the United States produces over 250 million tons of trash, see if what youre tossing can actually be recycled.

    19 Yes! You Can Recycle ThatDANNY seo

    KARL tate 03 Green FixSee how much changing a single light bulb could save you a little somethin somethin in this issues infographic.

    Now you dont need to be a farmer to grow fresh vegetables in a little amount free counter space.

    MARIE iannotti 05 Tiny Gardens

    02ISSUE 01

    CONTENTSofTABLE

  • GREENfix:THE FUTURE OF LIGHT BULBSIn this day and age, lighting choices have expanded beyond belief. Ranging from the standard incandescent, compact fluorescent lamp or CFL bulbs, and newly developed Light-Emitting Diode or LED light bulbs. As of January 2013, 100-watt incandescent bulbs can no longer be manufactured for sale in the United States due to their energy inefficiency and significant heat production. Plans are underway to make the same changes to the bulbs dimmer siblingsthe 75-, 60- and 40-watt incandescent bulbs. Cost effective and more efficient replacements include both CFL and LED bulbs, which are based upon newer technology than that of incandescent light bulbs. Because of their advanced technology, CFL and LED bulbs can save up to seventy-five percent in energy and monthly replacement costs as compared to the antiquated incandescent bulb.

    THE PUSH FOR CFL & LEDDespite their negative points, incandescent light bulbs are relatively inexpensive to purchase while CFL and LED bulbs have significantly higher sale prices. Consumers looking only for short-term savings fail to realize that twenty years of lighting a single lamp would require twenty-two incandescent bulbs versus three CFL bulbs or one LED bulb.

    The number of bulbs required isnt the only savings. That seventy-five percent greater energy eff iciency of CFL and LED bulbs results in real dollar savings on electric company bills. These same savings can be traced back to how the electricity is produced. If every U.S. household replaced one 60-watt incandescent bulb with a CFL one, the nation would save $3.9 billion annually, avoid the production of 3.4 million tons of CO2 emissions, and only cost $86 dollars instead of $353 dollars to keep a single lamp on constantly for five years.

    Be apart of the change and take this issues quick green fix into consideration. Changing to an LED bulb today, you wont have to change it again for twenty years. Save a little money and cross changing that flickering bulb in the kitchen off your list forever. Well almost.

    INCANDESCENTIncandescent bulbs produce light by heating metal wire called a filament to a high temperature until it glows.

    CFLFluorescent bulbs produce light when the gas inside is heated, causing the molecules to move and give off light.

    LEDLED bulbs have a solid state conductor that produces light when electrons move in a positive to negative pattern.

    AVERAGE COST

    AVERAGE COST

    AVERAGE COST

    $1.25

    $3.95

    $35.95

    written by:KARL tate

    03

    There are on average

    40bulbswithin a household

    LIGHTING

  • $8650,000 HRS$267 in savings compared to incandescent bulbs*

    Regular bulbs create

    1.9billiontonsof CO2 each year

    25 of a homes energy

    Lighting is

    %

    70 of U.S. sockets contain

    traditional bulbs

    Nearly%A SINGLE CHANGEIf every household in the United States replaced a single incandescent bulb to a LED bulb, enough energy could be saved to light 2 million homes for a year.

    AVERAGE LIFESPAN vs. COST OVER 50,000 HOURS (5.7 YEARS)

    1,200 HRS $353

    $9510,000 HRS

    *

    04ISSUE 01

  • 15

    Tiny Gardens

    Written by: Marie IANNOTTI

    Photography by: Josh Zelasko

  • No Green Thumb RequiredYou dont need a farm to grow fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits. You dont really even need a garden. Plant breeders know that after taste, home gardeners want a high yield in a small space, so theyve been developing more varieties that can grow in containers all year long. At first vegetable gardening were about producing food, not beauty. Now that vegetables have taken a more prominent place on the table, they are gaining more respect in the gardening world. With the increased interest from home gardeners, there has been a surge in the development of these new varieties. Plus, you dont even need a large area to have a vegetable garden. You do need good soil, plenty of sunshine, and a water source.

    Vegetables need a good six or more hours of sun each day. Without sun, the plants will be stressed and there are a few vegetables that can survive in light shade, such as, lettuce, broccoli and other greens. These tiny container gardens also require regular watering, without a regular watering schedule the vegetables will not fill out. Finally all vegetables need a soil rich in organic matter. Soil is important to the growth of all plants, but more so with vegetables, because even taste is affected by the quality of the soil. If you can provide these three basics, you can have a tiny vegetable garden.

    Any Space Works Now how much space does it take? Granted, a small space vegetable garden may not be enough for starting your own farm, but it will be enough to grow great tasting tomatoes, beautiful eggplants or an endless supply of cutting greens. You dont need a plot of land just an open shelf, counter, or windowsill to grow fresh vegetables. Many vegetables lend themselves well to container gardening. With some thought to selecting varieties, almost any vegetable can grow in a pot.

    If you want your favorite full-size variety, if you give it a large enough pot and plenty of soil and water, it will grow just fine and reward you with plenty. Container gardening is a great way to control the soil, sun and growing conditions of your edible plants. It is also a great way to squeeze your garden into the smallest spaces, by siting them on your patio, front steps or driveway. Vegetables that take up little space, such as carrots, radishes and lettuce, or ones that bear fruits over a long period of time, such as tomatoes and peppers, are perfect for container vegetable gardens. What you can grow is only limited by the size of the container and your imagination.

    Getting Started RightSince your vegetable plants will be making their containers home for the season, you want to start them off right. Make sure there is enough space for them to grow into and choose your soil and site with care. Here is advice for getting set up and started, followed by container growing tips for specific vegetables on the following page. Selecting containers for your vegetable gardens can be almost anything: flower pots, pails, buckets, wire baskets, bushel baskets, wooden boxes, nursery f lats, window planters, washtubs, strawberry pots, plastic bags, large food cans, or any number of other things.

    No matter what kind of container you choose, it should have holes at the base or in the bottom to permit drainage of excess water. You should also be careful when using dark colored containers because they absorb heat which could possibly damage the plant roots. If you do use dark colored pots, try painting them a lighter color or placing them in light shade. The size of the container is important, for larger vegetables like tomatoes and eggplants, you should use a five gallon container for each plant. You can also plant them in two gallon containers, however the plants will constantly need more water. Its alright to use soil in your container vegetable garden, but potting mixes are much better. The best and easiest solution would be to use peat-based mixes, containing peat and vermiculite, are excellent. They are relatively sterile and pH adjusted. They also allow the plants to get enough air and water. Mixing in one part compost to two parts planting mix will also improve the fertility. Using a slow release or complete organic fertilizer at planting will keep your newly planted vegetables fed for the whole growing season.

    Pots and containers always require more frequent watering than plants in the ground. As the season progresses and your plants mature, their root system will expand and require even more water. Dont wait until you see the plants wilting. Check your containers daily to judge the need for water. What most do not consider is wind. Wind can be a real hazard for any container grown plant and tall vegetables, like tomatoes or trellised cucumber and squash, become top heavy as they produce fruits. Try to place your containers so that they are not in an overly windy location, such as directly next to the window or an outdoor space. A breeze will provide nice air circulation and help prevent fungal diseases, but a strong wind can topple plants and containers and can also shred leaves and dislodge fruits. If you are gardening on a raised deck or roof top, you might need to provide a wind block. Keeping this in mind will allow you to easily set up your garden.

    06ISSUE 01

  • CucumbersYou should consider cucumbers that grow in a clump, rather than a long, sprawling vine. They can still spread out several feet, but they should not require trellising and grow well in large, wide containers or even hanging baskets. The bush cucumbers tend to start producing earlier than most vining varieties, which do best when trellised. The pots can get very top heavy. To keep them from tipping over, a larger container is recommended and the leaves can be very susceptible to fungus disease, so make sure there is good air circulation.

    The minimum container you will need is ten inches deep; for bush varieties you will need a gallon sized container and for the vine varieties you will need a three gallon. Out of these two varieties you can expect to get ten cucumbers per bush plant and a range of twelve to fifteen cucumbers per vine. For the best response to container gardening try the following bush and vine varieties, Bush Pickle, Salad Bush Hybrid, and Spacemaster or Crystal Apple, Lemon and Kirby.

    EggplantsEggplants require warm temperatures, even at night, and planting in a dark container will concentrate and hold heat. You can also move the container to wherever the sun is or place it on a hard surface that radiates heat. Once the plants start bearing fruits, they will get top heavy, so some staking may be required, to prevent the branches from drooping. The slender varieties tend to produce more fruits and can be harvested sooner, like Hanzel and Little Fingers. You will need a container that is at least four to five gallons and has no less than a eight inches deep. In each container you can fit one plat that will produce ten to twelve resulting fruits.

    07

    Container GardeningNow what types of vegetables are great for growing in a container garden? Many dont know that many vegetables will grow very well in containers. You may not be able to grow as much as you might in a traditional garden, but container gardening can be quite productive. There are a few special considerations when growing vegetable plants in pots, but they are by no means deterrents. Although any variety can be grown in a container, compact plants do best. Seed companies realize that homeowners have less and less space to devote to vegetable gardens and every year they come out with new vegetable plant varieties suitable for growing in small spaces. Be on the look out for key words like: bush, compact, and space saver. Here are some tips, including vegetable plant varieties, to get your vegetable container garden growing.

    CarrotsLong carrots require two months or longer to mature and tending to a container of carrots can be tedious. However two options can make it easier, one seed a few carrots with potted flowers. The ferny foliage is attractive and you will be pulling the carrots before the roots of the flowers take over the pot. Two, choose a fast growing round or baby carrot, like Babette or Paris Market. Carrots grow best and sweetest in the cool temperatures, primarily in the spring and fall.

    What you will need is a container that is a minimum of eight to twelve inches deep, room to space the seeds two to three inches apart, your approximate yield depends on diameter of container. With a deep and wide enough pot, you can grow any type of carrot, but the shorter varieties will mature more quickly and can be succession planted sooner.

  • Green OnionsFull sized onions not only take up space, they also require a long time in the ground. Green or bunching onions can be slipped into pots with other vegetables or grown on their own. Either way, you can snip what you need and leave the plants to grow more leaves. To grow green or bunching onions to full size, you will need to spread the plants to two to three inches apart, but you can eat all the plants you thin out. Even though they are not forming large bulbs, they still need plenty of water. The soil must be kept consistently moist, but not dripping wet. Be sure to start your first plants in early spring and keep succession planting into summer. For green onions to grow well use a container that is at least six inches deep, allows for two to three inches of spaces per plant, and you can harvest the green leaves while leaving the whole plant or slicing it off. A few varieties to keep in mind are Beltsville Bunching, Crystal Wax and Evergreen Bunching.

    LettuceOne thing that is certain is that lettuce loves containers. You can move it into sun or shade, as needed, lift it away from pests and animals and keep it handy for cutting. If you grow loose leaf varieties and cut only the outer leaves, the plants will continue to grow for months. However sooner or later they will tire out, so keep planting seeds every three or four weeks for a succession of harvests. Lettuce does best in cool weather and water is essential to keep lettuce happy. Lack of water will cause lettuce plants to bolt. When you are planting them, use a container that is around six inches deep and spacing leaf lettuce seeds can be placed close to one another. If you would like them to grow into individual heads, you need a least eight inches of separation.

    RadishesRadishes are best when they grow quickly and growing them in containers will provide the cool, damp conditions they love. You could even plant radishes and carrots together, the way it is often done in the garden. Use loosened soil so the radishes have room to expand. Radishes prefer moist soil, so move your containers to a shady spot and keep it well watered, if you want to continue growing radishes throughout the year. Use a container that is four to six inches deep and try planting Cherry Belle, White Icicle or Scarlet Globe varieties.

    TomatoesA full size tomato plant in a container will require a large pot, a strong stake, and lots of water - but it can be done. Dont skimp on the container and crowding it can stress the plant, leading to disease problems. A whiskey barrel-sized container would work well for beefsteak tomatoes. You could even under-plant it with lettuce, basil or a few flowers.

    If you just want a handy snack, the patio cherry tomatoes are perfect for you and there are dozens to choose from. They can be staked and grown upright or in hanging baskets. You just need the containers to have twelve inches of depth for smaller varieties such as Cherry tomatoes and a minimum of eighteen inches for full-sized plants.

    With these seven veggies and simple steps, you can start your very own tiny garden in today. Before you know it this tiny garden will grow into a giant part of your daily life and most importantly your dinner table.

    08ISSUE 01

  • In this issues Decorate it Yourself is to spruce up an old wooden tray into a new decorative piece to place around the house. Now how do you stencil and dress up that one old wooden try into a one-of-a-kind accessory? Well all you need is the following list of supplies and these easy steps. Once you have everything listed below, you can began the transformation.

    Materials Needed:

    Wooden tray Stencil design One quart of light gray One quart of off white Painters stick Medium grit sand paper Extra-fine grit sand paper Ruler Painters tape Drip cloth Regular paintbrush Small artist brush Polyurethane Your favorite album

    Steps:

    1. Be sure to gather all of the materials listed, especially your favorite album. Even though this project is quick and simple, it makes it just that much better with your favorite tunes playing in the background. Once your headphones are secure, press play and get ready to decorate that tray yourself.

    2. After getting your music started, select a tray, stencil design, paint colors, and place the additional materials near your workspace. Then use a few pieces of painters tape to secure a few sections of yesterdays times to the table as a drip cloth.

    Tip: Consider using a stencil featuring a single damask motif or other pattern to center on a surface. Take a look for a tray at a local flea markets, thrift shops, or laying around your garage.

    3. Next you have to sand your reclaimed tray. To remove the protective finish the tray may have on its surface, try using the medium grit sanding paper. By removing that finish this will allow the new paint to adhere much easier.

    Tip: You may want to begin with an unfinished or try to find an unpainted tray to skip this step.

    written & photographed by:JANELLE beals

    09

    yourself:DECORATE IT DESIGNER TRAY

  • 4. Once the tray is completely dusted off after sanding, paint a coat of primer onto it. Be sure to apply the primer to all surfaces of the tray with a painters brush and let dry for two hours.

    5. After the primer has set, sand the tray again. Using an extra-fine grit sand paper, remove any rough spots prior to painting the first coat. Wipe tray clean again with a tack cloth.

    6. Paint tray again, but now apply the light gray or any selected paint color to all surfaces of tray with a brush. Be sure to let stand for a few hours before moving forward.

    7. Following the four hours, sand the tray between the layers of paint. Again, sand away any rough areas or brush marks using an extra-fine grit sand paper wipe tray clean with a tack cloth.

    8. Apply the second coat of light gray or selected color of paint. Again, brush on the second coat of paint to all surfaces of tray and let dry for a few hours.

    9. After the second application of paint, grab your stencil design and center it on your newly painted tray. Position the stencil design on tray that looks best or by measuring its placement to ensure the design is accurately centered. Then grab a few strips of painters tape to secure it in place.

    10. Paint over the design stencil with an artists brush and using a dry brush method to ensure sharp paint lines. This is done by dripping the tip of the brush into the paint and removing any excess onto a paper towel; then stipple the paint onto the tray.

    11. Fill in the stencil design completely, dry brush the stencil cut outs with paint using a stippling method, which is tapping the brush repeatedly over the surface. Press down the stencil while stippling to prevent any paint seepage underneath. You may want to consider plastic gloves for an easy and quick clean-up.

    12. Once the stencil design is completed, use a small paint brush to fill any unpainted sections you may have missed. Let paint dry for a few hours prior to applying a protective finish.

    13. After the last coat has dried, cover the tray with a protective finish. This will allow the tray to not become damaged from everyday usage. Apply a protective finish to entire surface of the tray and wait for a few hours for it to dry.

    14. Carefully remove the painters tape from the tray and clean up your work area. After that is done try to enjoy your newly, upcylced wooden tray that will become the center piece of any table in your home, your go to drink carrier during parties, and the best conversation starter during get-togethers.

    10ISSUE 01

  • Written by:

    anna stephenSIllustrated by:

    URIAH Fracassi

    THE

    OF FARMING12ISSUE 01

  • Farming is not selfish; it gives back to the community. Teaching those who participate in the process a self motivated work ethic, patience, and a greater understanding of the gratifying outcome. These are the very ideals that Sweet Water Organics upholds and shares with their community just south of downtown Milwaukee.

    Sweet Water Organics is an urban fish and vegetable farm that provides fresh, and safe produce to the local community of Bay View, Wisconsin through their aquaponic systems. In 2008, Josh Fraundorf and James Godsil began the transformation of an abandoned industrial building into what became a showcase of potential living technologies and urban agriculture. Their sustainable aquaponics system recirculates the water from a fish tank and back into a vegetable grow bed that is on top of the tank. As the water passes through the roots of the plants before draining back into the tank, the plants extract the water and nutrients from the fish waste that they need to grow. Cleaning the water for the fish before it is recirculated. Producing various crops of lettuce, basil, watercress, tomatoes, peppers, chard and spinach; and locally produced food means significantly less energy used when compared to the processes of using heavy farm equipment dependent upon oil and gas. As well as the physical labor necessary to till, plant, weed, harvest, process, package, transport, and store the food. Additionally, vegetables, herbs and fruits that are mass produced in this way come from seeds that are resistant to disease and have a very long shelf life.

    Earlier this year I volunteered at Sweet Water Organics in the neighborhood of Bay View, just south of downtonwn Milwaukee. My responsibilities there included running the general store, merchandising, stocking and working with customers that came to visit. I enjoyed these tasks because they enabled me to work with people, to educate our visitors going on tours, as well as an avenue to apply my artistic interests. My supervisors, Toni Johns and Margaret Muza, were two very enthusiastic individuals who made an exciting and fun work environment. We were constantly brainstorming new creative projects to do and through our collective dedication, we accomplished what we put our mind to. Coming into work, seeing what had to be done such as painting a work space, or making a sign and physically doing it, left me with a sense of gratification when seeing the result of our efforts.

    Sweet Water as a whole reflects a philosophy of inspiring change through sustainable tools, and resources, which in turn benefit the surrounding community. Their alternative ways of urban farming provide an infinite amount of education and job opportunities within their headquarters. What makes their on-goings unique is that it is a collaborative effort in every

    sense of the word. Fish farming, harvesting and teaching all take place under the same roof. Activities and classes are offered yearlong throughout the Sweet Water complex. Since the organization operates completely on volunteers, they are always seeking new help and trying to get the word out as much as possible. Whether you are interested in composting, the science of hydroponics or the art of merchandising there are jobs or volunteer opportunities available for nearly everyone. A great about their activities are how hands-on they are. Learning is doing at Sweet Water and nearly all the tasks that need to be done at the foundation to try and involve working together with others willing to help. According to their mission statement, The Sweet Water Foundation develops intergenerational and interdisciplinary educational programming for sustainability

    13

  • with a focus on the potential of urban agriculture and aquaculture in the twenty-first century setting. What is commendable about this is how they have addressed important issues relating to the community (nutrition, agriculture, sustainable methods in urban farming) and they have proceeded to give back, through their offered opportunities and the distribution of their crops. Both their mission statement and methodology behind their efforts reflect their honest approach to attempting to solve very pertinent issues through solutions with longevity.

    How has Sweet Water they achieved this? I believe they have done this through their dedication and hard work. For being an organization primarily run by volunteers, they have found very dedicated and knowledgeable individuals who have put in the time and work to expand the foundation. Once an abandoned warehouse, designated to store train cars, is now an urban oasis of thriving agriculture, a learning center and a spectacle of modern science. I dont think Sweet Water

    would be what it is today if it werent for the shared sense of pride, purpose and responsibility the people who work there have. Their expansion and success has been built from the ground up, literally, with a collective drive and passion.For example, one common job there is harvesting lettuce. This job is something that most anyone could do if taught. However, you might wonder what motivates these volunteers to come in on a weekly basis, on their own time to stand for hours without pay to pick leaves of this seemingly precious

    hydro-lettuce? If there wasnt a sense of community there, with a genuine interest and passion for the tasks that needed to be done, none of this would happen, or survive for that matter. There also seems to be a shared sense of pride and importance for the activities that go on there. For instance, if the lettuce pickers didnt come in to work how would the fish in the same system, survive? If there werent any fish left, how would Sweet Water go on to provide those like The Green Kitchen and countless other local businesses the nutritious ingredients they need to serve their customers? Without this on their menu, would customers come back; would they stay in business? Sweet Waters business model and collective efforts function like a food chain. No single task is undermined in the process of production. Everyone is valued, every job at the organization is relative and respected.

    Aside from the many jobs, I took on working in the general store, I sought out to organize a volunteer appreciation event one that would in essence help bring people together and celebrate their hard work. What I proposed was a potluck gathering open to everyone who was a part of Sweet Water, to bring their friends and family. I worked with both of my two supervisors, as well as Jeff Redmond who was head of the foundations art projects. Jeff became an important contact for this endeavor and for future projects as well. Inside at the warehouse I discovered that he has all the materials that were necessary for screen-printing. He even had several screens already burned with Sweet Waters logo and ready to go! This was very exciting, as a printmaking major at the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design, it gave me the motivation to include this as part of the upcoming event.

    Preparation for the potluck took a few weeks. I spent hours cleaning all of the printing materials which hadnt been used for a while. Materials such as scrubbing squeegees and so on, in the back trenches of Sweet Waters warehouse. What seemed like a gritty job from the get-go, turned out to be more than worth while. Those at the event were more than excited to get their custom shirts made. The event took place in Sweet Waters newly established art gallery space, which is right next to the general store. Jeff had hung some of his own work in the space that week to promote the new edition, which was another exciting aspect. The turnout of the event was great! We had about 50 people come and participate. Families, founders and young volunteers all came and donated a dish to pass. What was scheduled as a 5-hour event turned into a day-long extravaganza of live screen printing, music and games. I took on the task of printing shirts throughout the whole day. What was more than satisfying than the turnout, was the joy that people seemed to get out of receiving a shirt.

    SWEET WATER REFLECTS APHILOSOPHYOF INSPIRING

    14ISSUE 01

  • now. The plan is to paint a large portion of the exterior of the building, which now sits untouched. Not only will this advertise to the visitors, but help make for a more inviting outdoor area for events to be hosted. Needless to say, I am very excited to continue to work with and create projects at Sweet Water! Over the course of these past few weeks, I can say that

    All of the families and their kids were able to participate, let me tell you the moms went crazy! It was funny to see everyone make runs to the thrift store to keep on bringing clothing back to be printed on. Jeff was especially thrilled that his equipment was being put to use, and his screens were so appreciated. I myself, lost track of time because it was so much fun, and can say that it surpassed any if not all of my expectations. The experience in itself embedded a gratifying sense of community and collective accomplishment. I had no idea what I was getting int o when I started but I am glad that Ive got to be a part of Sweet Water Organics. It goes to show that again, the people there are just genuinely awesome!

    As for the future, myself and the people who helped me plan the event want to make a public version of our potluck happen every summer. We are determined to make it actually happen and are motivated by the success of this event. In turn, this could be a great way of recruiting more volunteers to help continue to expand Sweet Water. Hosting it in the outdoor area of Sweet Water would be a great way of making it visible to those passing by. Inviting local vendors, musicians and neighboring businesses will be a great thing for everyone in the community. Jeff was kind enough to offer his screen-printing materials again and anytime needed, which I am very grateful for. I have plans for the near future to work with him on a community mural project for the organization as well. This is something, which I have wanted to do for some time there

    ONCE AN ABANDONEDWAREHOUSEIS NOW AN

  • volunteering has opened my eyes on ideas of community and the importance of networking. It has brought up some very prominent points such as the power we have as people and the responsibility we have to demand and create change. However, I do believe the most impactful experience I have gotten from this has been through the volunteer work itself. Sweet water was a great setting where art and community work went hand in hand. This type of creative environment is one in which I can see myself continuing being a part of.

    I have always been very driven by the process of making things. This is what I do think that was one of the reasons why I enjoyed working at Sweet Water so much. Everything from harvesting lettuce, catching fish and the event we threw was extremely hands on and process-driven. Being able to experience first hand the pay-off of hard work and to see a change in the place after putting in the effort was extremely satisfying. Likewise, having the openness to craft new events and projects was very motivating. Of course running a business of any kind being off of volunteers is risky and has its pros and cons. However, this is an aspect of Sweet Water, which I enjoyed the most because it offered flexibility and creativity to go into the planning of such new projects. The people that I worked with played a huge role in shaping my entire experience too. Getting to know the charismatic co-workers at the warehouse was just as much fun as the jobs themselves. Being around entertaining individuals who were so dedicated and creatively

    motivated, created an encouraging environment to be a part of. After all, it is because of these people who come in and spend their time there who make the place run. The creative atmosphere is the unique component to Sweet Water will be embraced. The space and the organization is meant to be an extension to the creative environment within the warehouse. In this way, I hope people from around the surrounding area are encouraged to make their mark with Sweet Water and get connected in a larger context. The neighborhood, which in itself has lots of artists, vendors and creative people looking for outlets in which to showcase their work. Sweet Water Organics is the place to make that happen. Getting people interested, means getting people motivated to get involved and thats the most important thing Ive learned.

    That motivation and willingness to inspire those around you will push me as I continue my experience with and past Sweet Water Organics. What started out as an odd experience inside just another organic grocer, has become a memory and an experience of a lifetime that I will never forget. Sweet Water Organics doesnt only grow vegetables, it helps grow local neighborhoods and build a supportive and creative communities.

    For more info on Sweet Water Organics please visit,sweetwater-organic.com or call (414) 489-0425

  • I learned a long time ago that some things are worth the wait, and the time it took for me to acquire my very own Forestbound bag was worth every single second. I noticed Forestbound a year or so ago and have been coveting the bags ever since. But Forestbound bags are the one-of-a-kind creations of Alice Saunders, which means that if someone else sees it online before you, the bag is gone. I missed out on a few gorgeous bags before I saw my own WWII era Quilted Tote bag posted on Alices Instagram feed and ran (literally) to my laptop to snap it up before anyone else could. Alice was able to spend a little time answering questions about herself and Forestbound.

    Alice, for those who arent yet familiar with Forestbound, tell us a little bit about yourself and your company.

    Hi! My name is Alice Saunders and Im the owner of a small business called Forestbound where I make bags out of historic materials that I find at flea markets and estate sales all over New England. I grew up in New Hampshire but I am based out of Boston where I live with my sweet rescue dog, Maisey, and my beloved 1988 Toyota Land Cruiser, Ronnie.

    I love that you breathe new life into vintage fabrics. Where do you find your fabrics? Whats the farthest traveled piece of fabric thats made it into one of your bags?

    I do most of my material collecting at a few New England flea markets very early on Sunday mornings, but I also go to a lot of estate sales in Massachusetts & New Hampshire as well as military shows throughout the Northeast. The majority of my fabrics actually come from here in New England, but from time to time I get my hands on indigo dyed cotton from Japan. Some of my all time favorite bags have been made with that material! And its definitely the fabric that has traveled farthest.

    Where and when did you start sewing?I started sewing in the basement of my parents house in New Hampshire when I was in my early teens. My mom had a portable Singer that I ended up using for many, many years it traveled with me to college and actually helped to make some of the first Forestbound bags.

    Your concepts for the bags are they inspired by the fabric you find, or do you go hunting for a fabric to fit your idea?

    Ninety-nine percent of the time the bag concepts come from what fabrics I have in the studio. I dont sew with patterns because every single bag ends up being different in a variety of ways the fabric itself really dictates what shape, size, and style the bag will become. There might be an interesting hand-repair on a 70 year-old feed sack that I want to feature prominently on the front of a bag, or maybe the brass grommets from a World War II era sea bag would look perfect along the top edge of the bag one of the best parts of my job is that each day in the shop is new and different, nothing is every the same I never know whats going to be made by the end of the day or how it is going to look until I get in there and start cutting!

    You sew some pretty heavy duty materials. Have you ever come across a material that just didnt work for a bag?

    I have a few heavy duty industrial sewing machines in my shop that can handle pretty much anything, but there has been a handful of times that Ive tried to incorporate old leather into

    17

    written by:ELLEN foord

    CREATIVEgenius:ALICE SAUNDERS

    Photography By: Jenn Bakos & Ashley Herrin

  • addition means being able to provide a few more shops with Forestbound Originals and also having the time to fulfill custom order requests since I get so many of them and want to have enough time to make that a big focus of my business as well. As far as adding new lines were working on some new styles that Im very excited about and were also planning on having new apparel and small accessories available in 2015.

    What/where is your biggest source of inspiration?

    Im endlessly inspired by the fabrics that I find and the people that I buy them from. Theres truly nothing I love more than being able to connect with older gentleman that spent time in the military and can tell me their stories. But Im also very much inspired by other makers and small business owners who put their full heart and soul into what they do.

    See what I mean about falling in love with Forestbound? Ive hinted to my husband that he should keep his eye on the bags Alice posts for my birthday. At this point, I can say with certainty that every bag Alice creates is a winner, so he or anyone else who wants to make my birthday dreams come true basically cant go wrong. Forget diamonds or fancy dinners, to make my dreams and anyone elses come true just give me some vintage Japanese indigo-dyed cotton and a little World War II canvas handbag or duffel bag.

    bags that just didnt work. Reclaimed leather can be tricky to work with because its very unpredictable on the outside it can look perfectly sturdy but it may be brittle on the inside. I want all of my bags to last a lifetime so I try to stray away from using leather that may crack a few months down the line.

    I love that each bag is a one-of-a-kind work of art, but Ill admit Ive fallen in love with one of your bags only to find it sold. Do you ever get requests to recreate a bag youve already made?

    I get requests to remake bags almost every day! Since Ive been working with vintage fabrics for so many years I can usually source a fabric similar to the original and recreate something close, but its just the nature of Forestbound that no two bags will ever be the same. I personally think it makes the bags that much more special, even though you may have to wait months until the right bag comes along that is meant for you.

    What is your studio like? Do you work alone, or is there a Forestbound team?

    I recently moved into a 500-square-foot studio in a great collective work space called Fringe Union. I had been working out of a smaller studio for a number of years that was more solitary, and I was really craving more creative interaction. This space is such a welcome change since Im surrounded by really innovative work.

    How did Forestbound begin? Youre a designer, but what drew you specifically to the idea of remaking old fabric into handbags?

    I worked on organic farms in New England for a number of years before Forestbound became my full time gig, so during the winters I was trying to find a way to get a little extra money. I thought maybe I could open my own Etsy shop and sell a few pieces. I had always sewed with reclaimed fabric found at the thrift shop just because the idea of reinventing something just made sense to me. That sensibility combined with my love for history and surplus just came together in a perfect way when I saw a World War II duffel bag in 2007 I thought I could use this beautiful, sturdy canvas from it to make a bag of my own.

    Whats the next step for Forestbound? Are you expanding, adding new lines, or enjoying staying put for now?

    The most important thing for me is to keep the focus on the fabrics that I uncover and highlight the little piece of history that each of them holds. Since this is the core of Forestbound, I really want to keep the company at a size where I can make one of a kind bags every day that Im in the studio instead of trying to keep up with the demand for wholesale. Ive had someone in the shop part time for almost a year now and she just came on to work for me full time so Im very excited for that! This

    18ISSUE 01

    Photography By: Jenn Bakos & Ashley Herrin

  • Yes,you can recycle that

    written by:DANNY SEO

  • TENNIS BALLS

    TWELVE THINGS YOU DIDNT KNOW YOU COULD RECYCLE

    EACH DAYIN THE U.S. ONEPERSON CREATESABOUT4.38 LBS OF TRASH

    The numbers dont lie, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that in the United States alone about 4.38 pounds of trash is produced per person per day. That averages out to about 250 million tons of trash per year and only about one-third of waste can be recycled each year. Which is enough to circle the Earth almost twenty-four times. But I know that we can do better!

    Sure, its easy to recycle an empty soda can or toss yesterdays newspaper into the recycle bin, but what about those broken remotes, stray cable cords, and obsene mount of tennis balls in your garage that have lost their oomph? Not only can you recycle them, but you wont break a sweat either! Check out our list of twelve unlikely things that you didnt know you could recycle, but you can. With the help of the internet and all that excess junk taking up space in your home, we can start to reduce that 250 million tons of waste.

    So go venture behind that dusty entertainment stand and grab those stray jumbles of wires, dig through Fidos stash of extra tennis balls in the garage, clear out that jungle you call a junk drawer thats full of dead sharpies, grab that collection of plastic grocery bags crammed underneath the kitchen sink, and pull out those out dated holiday decorations from the attic. These are all things you could recycle, some in your curbside bin, and others through the help of third parties. With this simple and easy list, you dont have to wait until next April to start your spring cleaning, you can do it now.

    1There are only so many tennis balls your dog can fetch, so give old balls a new reason to bounce. If youve got at least 200 old tennis balls, the company reBounces wants them. Their patented Green Tennis Machine actually restores dead tennis balls, giving them back lifeand their original bounce. For your generous collection of dead balls, theyll give you a free pre-paid FedEx slip. Hop over to rebounces.com to learn more and to receive your shipping requirements.

    20ISSUE 01

  • 21

    OFFICEELECTRONICS6

    The office supply chain Staples is making it easy to recycle old home office electronic waste, regardless of where you bought it or what brand it is. Broken computer mice, keyboards, modems, external hard drives, and printers are just a few of the items they accept for free. Go around the office or your home to gather up any out-dated and unused electronic equipment that you could recycle. However, they can only accept and recycle six items per customer per day. Visit Staples.com.

    RECHARGEABLEBATTERIES7

    Unlike alkaline batteries, which can only be used once, rechargeable batteries can be reused and recharged about 1,000 times before needing to be replaced. The nonprofit Call2Recycle is celebrating their twenty year anniversary of making it a cinch for you to recycle your old rechargeable batteries. These battery recycle bins are located in participating Lowes and Home Depot locations. Otherwise please visit Call2Recycle.org to learn find more information on local participating stores near you.

    5The nationwide retail chain Best Buy, has made a goal to collect and recycle one billion pounds of electronics this year. In addition to old televisions, VHS tapes and DVD players, and digital cameras, their front-of-store recycling bins also take hard-to-recycle electronic waste like remote controls and gaming controllers. Gather up those stray cords and connectors from those long lost electronics and donate today.

    ELECTRONICS & CABLES4

    Although the bottle of vino may be empty, dont toss the real cork into the trash. A company called ReCORK collects real wine corks and has collected up to 47 million to date! ReCORK takes the corks and then grinds them up for use in new consumer products such as flooring and soles for shoes. Your favorite wine shop may already be participating, if not you can visit recork.org to find a recycling bin near you.

    WINECORKS

    BRITA WATERFILTERS2

    When its time to replace your old Brita water filters, dont toss them into the trash. Brita and Preserve Products have made it easy to recycle them. Just drop off your old filters in a Gimme 5 recycling bin, which are located in most Whole Foods stores. Gimme 5 will recycle the plastic parts from your used filters into new products like razors, watering cans, and park benches. Visit and learn more at Brita.com.

    SHARPIES & PENS3

    The majority of a Sharpie permanent marker is recyclable, and the innovative recycling company TerraCycle wants your old, dried-out markers so they can rework them into new plastic products. Get your local school or office revved up to start a renew-it brigade at terracycle.com. It is as easy as gathering up all your Sharpies, highlighters, pens, markers, and mechanical pencils and shipping it to TerraCycle.

  • 8Recycle broken-down stretches of holiday lights and save money on new energy-saving, long-lasting LED lights while youre at it. At holidayLED.com they take your old, burnt-out string lights for free and recycle all the parts-PVC plastic, glass bulbs, copper wiring-into brand-new products. Then they will send you a fifteen percent off coupon redeemable toward a new string of LED lights as a reward.

    9Yes, aerosol paint cans are usually recyclable in your normal curbside recycle bins. The one caveat? They must be completely empty and have the plastic spray nozzle removed. To empty a paint can, use up the paint for a home improvement project or spray it into several layers of newspaper until empty. Then throw the paint newsprint in the trash, twist off the cap to the can, and now it is perfect to be recycled.

    HOLIDAY DECORATIONS

    AEROSOLPAINT CANS

    Yes, Ziploc and other plastic-bag makers use the same plastic that is used to produce plastic shopping bags for your local supermarkets. To recycle your Ziploc bags or other sandwich bags, just be sure to clean and dry them before dropping them off in any plastic-bag return at your local supermarket. These bins are usually located in the lobby, but if you experience any difficulties finding a bin head to the stores customer service.

    USED PLASTICSANDWICH BAGS10

    11 12Did you know that more than 75 million pounds of PVC plastic is used for plastic gift cards? SwipeIt is a company that makes gifts cards for small businesses out of recycled cards and has made it easy for anyone to recycle their old gift cards for free. Just mail them your stacks of old gift cards and they will sort and recycle them into new plastic products. To learn more about the program and visit swipeit.com.

    For over twenty-six years, Lenscrafters has collected lightly used eyeglasses to give the gift of sight to people in need around the world. Their nonprofit program OneSight refurbishes old glasses and the shares them free of charge to the seven hundred million people around the world who suffer from poor vision. To see the whole story and to learn more about their program OneSight visit lenscrafters.com.

    PLASTICGIFT CARDS

    USEDEYEGLASSES

    22ISSUE 01

  • visit VERDE.COM081590434930915FACEBOOK.COM/VERDE