BENZONIA — A community organization in Benzonia is working to reduce environmental waste by transforming old fabrics into new designs. FiberShed successfully diverted more than 3,000 pounds of material from landfills last year and has set a goal to save at least 4,500 pounds of fiber in 2026.
Founded in 2017, the group promotes the reuse of clothing and fiber as a sustainable alternative to purchasing new products. By providing a central location for donations and exchanges, the organization encourages residents to reimagine the potential of discarded materials through crafting and education.
FiberShed uses a weight-based credit system to facilitate the exchange of materials. For every pound of fiber or fabric donated, the organization provides one credit to the donor. These credits can then be used to acquire other items within the shop or shared with other visitors. Individuals who do not have materials to donate are still permitted to visit the Benzonia location to purchase fiber that catches their eye.
Pam Smith, a volunteer with FiberShed, explained that the group accepts a wide variety of items beyond basic cloth. This includes fiber and various notions used for sewing, as well as supplies from different crafting hobbies that residents may have outgrown or no longer need. Smith emphasized that the program relies on the continuous cycle of community contributions.“
The next person coming through the door might be so interested in what you’ve just donated,” Smith said. “So this is kind of about recycling materials to kind of give you something old like new, like we’re keeping all of this out of the landfill.” Smith noted that the process allows residents to see the creative potential in items that might otherwise be discarded. “It’s just amazing to bring new life to everything and sometimes just keep it the way it is, or maybe reimagine it into something brand new,” she said.
Beyond serving as a material exchange, the organization provides educational resources through its on-site facilities. The location includes a dedicated workshop space where the group hosts classes to teach community members how to create unique items from old fabric. Patty Keim, another volunteer, helps maintain the area where these instructional sessions and crafting projects take place
Keim, a community member and craft project participant, moved to the area from northern Indiana within the last few years. She sought out the craft group as a way to establish herself in her new home. “Moved up here just a couple of years ago from northern Indiana,” Keim said. “And I was trying to find a way to build some friendships and get involved in the community.”Keim first encountered the group at an art festival where they were hosting a booth. She became interested in their work after seeing items created from men’s neckties designed to hold glassware or wine bottles. “I thought, now that’s a great way to use some of my dad’s ties or my grandpa’s ties,” Keim said.
The centerpiece of Keim’s recent work is a wool blanket with deep ties to Muskegon Heights history. Her grandfather was a graduate of the class of 1922 or 1923 and served as the captain of the school’s first football team. “My grandfather graduated from Muskegon Heights, and he was the captain of the first football team,” Keim said. “It was 30 years later they presented him with this awesome wool blanket, Muskegon Heights emblem and his name embroidered on the bottom. And I’ve kept it for years and years.”
Keim decided to repurpose the heritage item after seeing other members of the craft group making ponchos. The finished garment allows her to maintain a physical connection to her family history while creating something functional. “And they were making these ponchos and I said, oh, I’ve got a blanket, I’d like to make one, but I’m not sure how I bring it in,” Keim said. “The next thing you know, I’ve got this great poncho and it is awesome. It’s so warm and I get to be close to my gramps again.”
The organization is currently working toward its goal of diverting at least 4,500 pounds of material in 2026. “And we’re making it. We’re making it happen with all the donations we have coming through the door,” Smith said regarding the progress toward the new target.
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