Recycled/Upcycled

When I put out the call for recycling shops wanting a feature - I never thought I would get the response that I did. Who knew that there are so many amazing shops that use recycled materials. It's actually quite inspiring! My Hobby Shop is another wonderful Etsy shop that uses recycled and upcycled materials.

*Where are you from? Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Lily Robinson. I was born in South Bronx, NY but moved to Columbus, OH when I was 9 years old. I am married to a wonderful and supportive husband and we have three children ages 14, 12 and10. I work full time, go to school part time and am actively involved in several volunteer youth organizations.

*How did you decide on your shop name? Why did you start your business?
When I was 13 years old my mother taught me how to crochet. She was an artist and always had some type of project going on. I inherited her passion for art. I love to do everything and anything that requires creating something by hand. It’s been my hobby every since I was young. As I got older my friends would tell me I should sell my item. When I heard of Etsy I decided to sign up and give it a try. I thought it would be a great way to share my hobby with the rest of the world and that’s how MyHobbyShop was born!

*What got you started in recycling?
I am always searching the internet to see what the latest trends are. I came across an article about making plarn. Plarn is making yarn out of plastic shopping bags! I was intrigued and made some of my own to crochet coasters and other items. They were a huge hit at a local craft show. So I started looking for other ways to incorporate ordinary household items into my crafts. My latest item is using large tubing and scrap fabric to create bangles and napkin holders. I love how each item is unique in its own way.

*What’s your supply addiction; is there a specific color or type of supply you just can’t pass up?
YARN! I am absolutely addicted to yarn. It doesn’t matter what color. I just love yarn. I have to force myself to stay away from the craft store unless it’s absolutely necessary. However, since creating my recycled bangles I have started collecting cardboard tubing of all shapes and sizes, along with scrap materials, even old t-shirts that I hope to use to in my designs. At this point I have 3 - 30 gallon plastic tubs full of every type of craft material know to man. Need feathers, pine cones, spray paint, I got it all!

*What motivates or inspires you to create?
Creating is something I truly enjoy. I love seeing my ideas evolve to become an item that someone might use. At work I am constantly thinking of new ideas. So much so that I keep a notebook with my at all time so I can jot them down. I would like this hobby to be a business that would allow me to be at home with my children more often and that’s what motivates me to keep creating.

*Which item in your shop did you enjoy making the most and why?
My recycled bracelets are my favorite items right now. I love making them. It’s messy and fun! I enjoy being able to create beauty out of something that would have otherwise been trash.

*Are there other places on the net we can find you?
My Blog: http://myhobbyshopblog.blogspot.com/
My FanPage: http://www.facebook.com/MyHobbyShopFanPage
Flicker: http://www.flickr.com/photos/myhobbyshop1/

*What is your favorite shop that uses recycled materials, and/or your favorite blog about recycling?
I love “window shopping” on Etsy and I actually have a few favorite shops that do wonderful things with recycled items. Here are just a few.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ivyteakettle
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Crochooley
http://www.etsy.com/shop/arnym