Turn waste into something wonderful. From ocean plastic to surplus textiles, what was once overlooked is finding its way into clever, considered design. These are the materials with history, reimagined into something you’ll want to use, keep and love.
Today we’re shining a light on two brands, including our own Papersmiths notebooks, that are giving offcuts, surplus and discarded resources a second life, and proving that sustainability and great design can go hand in hand.
The Beauty of Sustainable Stationery
Good designs shouldn’t cost us the earth, and I mean that literally. The Papersmiths new collection of wirebound notebooks is designed to tread lighter on the planet, combining thoughtful materials with British craftsmanship. Handmade at a 104-year-old bindery just a stone’s throw from our Chelsea shop, these notebooks are made to last and not cause damage to the planet.
Two of the covers feature a bookcloth created from recycled ocean plastic. The others are bound in real linen. Inside, you’ll find FSC-certified paper that’s fountain pen-friendly, paired with ribbons made from recycled and organic textiles. Thoughtful choices, made to close the loop.
Why Ocean Plastic?
Each year, over 11 million tonnes of plastic enters our oceans, harming marine habitats, wildlife and even our food chains. By transforming this waste into robust materials like Toile Ocean bookcloth, we help divert it from the water and give it a new purpose, protecting your notes, ideas and plans.
Recycled ocean plastic is durable, practical and a reminder that design can be a force for good. You can learn more about how to recycle your Papersmiths notebooks and their full sustainability credentials in our eco-friendly notebooks blog post.
Haines Collection: Creative Reuse for Interiors
Haines Collection is a pioneer in sustainable interiors, rescuing surplus fabrics and giving them a second life in creative homes. Whether it’s a remnant destined for landfill or an ex-display fabric looking for love, Haines saves beautiful materials from waste, helping you decorate your home more mindfully.
Since launching, they’ve saved over 40,000 metres of textiles from landfill - a huge win for both people and planet. From upholstery projects to cushions and curtains, Haines champions creativity and conscious consumption.
Explore their mission at hainescollection.co.uk.
Rethinking Waste
Whether it’s ocean plastic or surplus textiles, these two brands prove that waste isn’t the end of the story. Thoughtful consumption, creative reuse and respect for our resources can lead to products that are as beautiful as they are responsible.
Together, we’re part of a growing movement towards thoughtful consumption, creative reuse and design that respects the resources we already have.
Find out more:
Papersmiths Notebooks
Haines Collection
