Episode 143—Giving Our Supplies a Second Life
What happens to the fabric, notions, and patterns we never get around to using? In this episode, Emily Yost and Ariel Riccardi of Creative Reuse Montana share about this innovative, volunteer-run nonprofit in Livingston, Montana. The organization collects unused creative supplies and puts them back into the hands of makers, teachers, and community groups instead of landfills. Emily and Ariel share how the organization grew from a single craft supply swap into a downtown shop that runs free community swaps, workshops, and wishlists for classrooms, youth programs, and senior centers. We talk about how reuse centers around the country are helping sewists find affordable materials and community after Joann Fabrics closed. Learn how you can find or start a creative reuse effort wherever you live.
SHOW NOTES
Emily’s Substack article about Creative Reuse Montana
Eagle Mount in Bozeman, Montana
Rogue Sunflower Atelier—Ariel’s business
Giving Art to Missoula (GAM) in Missoula, Montana
Wheelhouse Community Art Studio in Bozeman, Montana
Janet Szabo’s website
Big Sky Knitting Designs website—Purchase digital copies of Janet’s knitting patterns and order copies of her books.
The ‘Suck It Up, Buttercup’ Blog—Janet’s commentary on life in Montana
Janet will be teaching again at Sew Expo 2027—Note the new dates of March 4-7, 2027! Registration goes live on December 1, 2026, so don’t wait.