Bikes - so great for recreation on a summer day (a pleasureful ride along the waterfront) or (for those more committed or more athletic than me) your commute. And while they are a planet-friendlier choice than most vehicles, did you know an estimated 44000 tons of bike tire inner tubes end in the landfill each year globally?
The good news, bike riders, is that many local bike shops will take your spent tubes back for recycling, and some partner with artisans for them to be upcycled into new goods.
This past weekend, I was happy to meet Portland artist Gina of Consciously Crafted Jewelry, who repurposes used inner tubes into jewelry. This feather design is just one of the several designs she offers, where the feather shapes are carefully cut from the inner tubes, painted, and then assembled into earrings.
My dear friend, A, helped me pick out these vibrant aqua/jungle colors at just the right length to suit my hairstyle. Although, if you have a more adventurous style, these came in many lengths, including shoulder-skimming!
