Reduce, Reuse, Repair
Although we love solving sustainability problems with creativity, sometimes a specific challenge you’re facing can be best addressed by other local resources + organizations. We’ve put together a list of some of the most commonly asked questions we get when it comes to how to reduce, reuse, or repair something, and paired these questions with our go-to sustainability resources + places. We want to connect you to what you need to be resourceful!
Reduce
Can I donate x, y, or z to Perennial?
The best way to reduce is to buy less stuff, but we understand wanting to share/donate something you no longer need yet still has potential. Check out our up-to-date donation list online for items we’re currently accepting, and if you have an item not on the list, our go-to resources to reach out to include:
- Home Sweet Home — new or gently-used furniture and household items; drop-off + pick up available
- Remains — worn clothing, shoes, + textiles; drop-off available
- St. Louis Teachers’ Recycling Center — traditional art supplies (craft paint, markers, etc.); drop-off by appointment only
- Leftovers — salvaged project supplies with a focus on youth and teachers
- Refab – excess building materials + fixtures
- MRC Recycling – hosts regular Electronics Recycling Drives. See where they’ll be or host your own!
- Find a free exchange program near you! Search for local “Buy Nothing” groups on Facebook.
Reuse
Where can I find x, y, or z?
We sell lots of reclaimed project supplies at our shop to help you achieve your DIY crafting goals, but if you can’t find what you’re looking for at our shop, check out these places for more reclaimed + salvaged supplies:
- City Sewing Room – fabric + textiles
- Preston Art Glass – scrap glass
- Lumber Logs – sustainably-sourced wood
- Restore – building materials + household fixtures
- Refab – building materials + household fixtures
Repair
Can you help me fix x, y, or z?
Check out our classes if you’re ready to learn repair tips + techniques for clothing and home projects. If the project is more than you want to tackle or you’d rather hire an expert, reach out to one of these local businesses:
- Just Sew – sewing machine repair
- Little Cliff Shop – textile mends!
- Bridge Cats – more mends
- Green Rock Sewing – even more mends
- Rustic Roots Farm – for more resourceful farm-focused classes and techniques
Interested in other cool people + places doing cool sustainable stuff?
Check out:
- Seed St. Louis – helpful for the backyard gardener
- EarthWays Green Resources Answer Service is available at greenresources@mobot.org
- Brightside – answers to all your St. Louis City Recycling questions and more!
- Project Clear – find help and funding to improve your home’s rainscaping
