Unspecified

Received this email from Bunz last night. As of Sept 10, they have terminated my contract (and many others) as a vendor on this platform. This will be a bit of a longer post, so buckle up.

A recap of events for those who didn't know about the signs that Bunz had financial problems leading up to this. Last year, Bunz wanted to limit the amount of BTZ per transaction, but had to roll it back due to backlash from businesses. The CEO stated that they wouldn't make changes without a 30-days notice. In April 2019, Bunz wanted to implement a monthly fee of $10+tax for all participating businesses starting May 1. The rollout was postponed until Sept 1 due to backlash and lack of interest from businesses. I just paid mine on Sept 9th. Then out of nowhere, they sent the termination email on Sept 10 at 9pm.

How does this affect you?
You can no longer redeem BTZ for products and services from the affected vendors. This means you have less than half of the choices now (we had so few in Metro Vancouver to begin with). Affected Makers include myself @alisayao, @tinymoonspells, @zerowastesimplicity @alittlemaur. Affected Shop Local businesses included @thelittlebarber, a general store in North Van, @kotn and another store downtown (sorry I couldn't find their usernames). Not sure about the remaining non-food/coffee businesses left on here.

How does this affect me?
I make and sell my products full time. Bunz has been about 5% of my income. Sucks to lose a chunk of income so suddenly, but this is exactly why I didn't put all my eggs in one basket. While I respect their decision to end the program, more notice would have been nice. This was literally 0 notice and not professional. I now have customers that can no longer support me on this platform, many who saved BTZ for months. And now their BTZ is no longer of use to them.

Going forward:
While I can no longer accept BTZ for my products, I will be moving my product and service listings to my main account @aymyao in the next while. I will only be doing TRUE TRADES from now on. I no longer believe that BTZ is a sustainable form of currency because of the lack of choices that the users have, and the fluctuating rate at which they are rewarded.

What I think we, the Bunz community, should do:
1. Speak up about these changes happening behind our backs. I think all app users should have been informed. Bunz ONLY emailed those who were terminated, and that isn't right. And now the businesses remaining also face alot of uncertainty. 
2. Reconsider the role of BTZ in your trades. It is only as valuable as a gift card in your pocket. It has no value if businesses don't accept it.
3. Want to support your locals? Come visit us in person at craft markets, farmers markets, and stores. Unfortunately this platform no longer supports us.

Bunz CEO's response: https://medium.com/@bunz/shop-local-changes-e866f2a67fd2

🚨PSA🚨 BTZ No Longer Accepted At Some Businesses

Pickup in person from my home studio or at a craft market (see dates on profile). Canada-wide shipping is also available based on weight of the order (approx 200-250 BTZ /pack).

Choose from unbleached or rescued cotton prints!

SIZES: 
Variety pack of S, M, L:  (2200 BTZ per set)
Small: 6"   (500 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 5 )
Med: 10"  (800 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 3)
Large: 14"  (1200 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 2)

My beeswax wraps are made from 100% rescued cotton fabric infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, organic jojoba oil, and pine resin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. The wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water, and last about 6-12 months. Wraps can be rewaxed or composted at their end of life.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

ASSORTED PRINTS: made with recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!

#zerowaste #handmade #giftit

Beeswax Food Wrap Packs

This reusable snack pouch is made from cotton fabric infused with pure filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and rosin. This bag is suitable for use as a snack bag or as a produce bag since the beeswax is breathable and water resistant. You can pinch or roll down the top to secure the contents. When snacking, you can mould the bottom so it lies flat in the palm, making it easier to hold. 

Dimensions: 
5"x2" opening and 9" height
7"x9" when flattened

The antimicrobial and water resistant properties of beeswax makes it an ideal alternative to plastic wrap and bags when it comes to food storage. These pouches can be spot cleaned with cold water (non-toxic non-alchohol-based soap optional) and air dried. Depending on the amount of use, the bag can last around 6 months, and can be cut up and composted when you are done with it. Or maybe you can come up with other clever ways to use the bag?

Beeswax Canvas Snack Bag - Indigo Flowers

See pic 2 for available outer case colours

26" x 7" x 3"   Perfect bolster for deep breathing and relaxation. The length supports the entire spine, from the lower back to the head. The small width and gentle lift allow the chest to relax and open, allowing for deeper breathing.

FEATURES:
- Removable outer case with carrying handle. Outer case can be washed.
- Extra flap on the back covers the zipper and protects the floor (pic 3).

Made by me using 100% recycled textiles and stuffed with textile scraps (weighs over 5lbs). Check out my Instagram page for behind the scenes process photos.

#zerowaste #yoga

Yoga Bolster

Classes are 1-on-1 and all materials are provided. Classes will take place in my home studio in Coquitlam. I am available most weekdays and on weekends that I am not vending.

I offer 3 in-depth classes depending on what you want to learn. You are not required to take the classes in order, but it is recommended if you have never sewn before. See below for class details:

5500 BTZ per class (ISOs accepted as well!)
Classes take ~2 hours each. 
All materials will be provided.

CLASS 1: The Basics
Introduction to domestic sewing machine and serger, how to use them. Introduction to sewing tools, basic stitches and finishes. You will learn to sew a drawstring bag and document your sewing samples

CLASS 2: Trims & Volume
Introduction to different types of trims such as zippers and bias tapes. Introduction to sewing gussets and building volume into products. You will learn to sew a zippered and gusseted toiletry bag with bound seams.

CLASS 3: Multi-Material
Introduction to multi-materials products and sewing materials of different weight. You will learn to adjust machine settings to accommodate changes in materials. You will learn to sew an oversized gusseted tote bag with a hidden external slot pocket.


I specialized in soft goods design and production in school, and I am proficient on all domestic and industrial machines. I have taught sewing for 2 years. To see the quality of my work, you can check out my Instagram, or request my design portfolio.

Beginner Sewing Classes

Got an event (wedding, corporate, etc) coming up and need zero waste gifts for guests? I can provide discounts for 1-time bulk purchases and also provide custom sizes and packaging to suit your needs.

Discounts start at 20+ items. 
Orders need to be placed at least 1 month before your event.

Pictured: 100 custom sized beeswax food wraps for the Vancity conference on Feb 19th. They requested no packaging and a slip of paper with information about the product and who made it.

Custom Zero Waste Gifts

Pickup in person from my home studio (Coquitlam) or at a craft market (see dates on profile). Shipping is also available (based on weight of the order). 

Choose from unbleached or rescued cotton prints!

SIZES: 
Variety pack of S, M, L:  (2200 BTZ per set)
Small: 6"   (500 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 5 )
Med: 10"  (800 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 3)
Large: 14"  (1200 BTZ ea / 2200 BTZ for 2)

My beeswax wraps are made from 100% cotton fabric infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, organic jojoba oil, and pine resin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. The wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water, and last about 6-12 months. Wraps can be rewaxed or composted at their end of life.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

ASSORTED PRINTS: made with recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!

#zerowaste #handmade #giftit

Assorted Beeswax Food Wrap Sets

Plastic-free and metal-free zip ties. I can throw these in free of charge with any trade.

These are the off cuts from my beeswax wraps / snack bags. They are perfect for tying up plant cuttings, as they do not cut into the stems. They are also water resistant and mold resistant.

I've been using them myself, but have way too many now due to the extra products I've been making for the holiday season.

FREE Compostable Zip Ties

Snack bag for plant lovers. This reusable snack pouch is made from cotton fabric infused with pure filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and rosin. This bag is suitable for use as a snack bag or as a produce bag since the beeswax is breathable and water resistant. You can pinch or roll down the top to secure the contents. When snacking, you can mould the bottom so it lies flat in the palm, making it easier to hold. 

Dimensions: 
5"x2" opening and 9" height
7"x9" when flattened

The antimicrobial and water resistant properties of beeswax makes it an ideal alternative to plastic wrap and bags when it comes to food storage. These pouches can be spot cleaned with cold water (non-toxic non-alchohol-based soap optional) and air dried. Depending on the amount of use, the bag can last around 6 months, and can be cut up and composted when you are done with it. Or maybe you can come up with other clever ways to use the bag?

Beeswax Canvas Snack Bag - Plant Print

An eco-friendly way to pack food. Bring food and snacks for lunch at school or at the office. Take it grocery shopping and store your large veggies in the fridge with it!

This waxed bag is made from cotton canvas infused with pure beeswax, organic coconut oil, organic jojoba oil, and pine resin. The beeswax is food safe and water resistant. You can easily roll down the top to secure the contents. 

DIMENSIONS:    13"H x 7.5"L x 4"W 

The antimicrobial and water resistant properties of beeswax makes it an ideal alternative for food storage. The beeswax also gives the bag a nice aroma.

Beeswax Canvas Grocery/Lunch Bag

Custom formulated beeswax for rewaxing food wraps. Each hexagon puck weighs 12.5g on average. Due to seasonal crop variations, beeswax will vary in colour.

INGREDIENTS: local beeswax, organic jojoba oil, organic coconut oil, pine resin

NOTE: these pucks are not suitable for making personal care products or candles.

Rewax Pucks

Get your snacking on! This reusable snack pouch is made from cotton canvas infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, and pine resin. This bag is suitable for use as a snack bag or as a produce bag since the beeswax is water resistant. You can press or roll down the top to secure the contents.

Dimensions: 
5"x2" opening and 9" height
7"x9" when flattened

The antimicrobial and water resistant properties of beeswax makes it an ideal alternative to plastic saran wrap and ziploc bags when it comes to food storage. These pouches can be spot cleaned with cold water (non-toxic soap optional) and air dried. Depending on the amount of use, the bag can last around 6 months, and can be cut up and composted when you are done with it. Or maybe you can come up with other clever ways to use the bag?

Beeswax Canvas Snack Bag

DIMENSIONS: 6" x 6"
Available in unbleached or recycled cotton prints

My food wraps are made from 100% cotton fabric (unbleached/recycled) infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil and rosin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. Beeswax wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water, and last about 6-12 months. Wraps can be rewaxed or composted at their end of life.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

RECYCLED: made with assorted recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!

Reusable Food Wrap - S

Choose from unbleached or recycled cotton prints!
This listing includes one wrap in each size:
Small: 6" x 6" 
Medium: 10" x 10" 
Large: 14" x 14

My beeswax wraps are made from 100% cotton fabric infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil, jojoba oil, and rosin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. Beeswax wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water, and last about 6-12 months. Wraps can be rewaxed or composted at their end of life.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

ASSORTED PRINTS: made with recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!

#zerowaste #handmade

Food Wrap Set - S, M, L

This cotton sack is perfect for shopping for dry bulk items, small bread loaves, and produce. It has a little window (optional) to see the contents so you don't hold up the line at checkout!

DIMENSIONS: 9" x 16" (default)

Customisation:
-  400 BTZ if you don't want the window
+ 400 BTZ upgrade to 12" x 18" size

Cotton Drawstring Bag - Tropical Print

DIMENSIONS: 10" x 10"
Available in unbleached or recycled assorted prints

1 for   800 BTZ
3 for 2200 BTZ

My beeswax wraps are made from 100% cotton fabric infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil and rosin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. Beeswax wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water and can last about 6-12 months.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

ASSORTED PRINTS: made with recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!

Beeswax Food Wrap - M

DIMENSIONS: 14" x 14"
Available in unbleached or recycled cotton prints

1 for 1200 BTZ
2 for 2200 BTZ

My beeswax wraps are made from 100% cotton fabric infused with filtered beeswax, organic coconut oil and rosin. Beeswax wraps are a great alternative for plastic wrap. You can use them to wrap cheese, cut fruit, snacks, and cover bowls. Beeswax wraps can be spot cleaned with cold water, and is compostable. Depending on the amount of use, each wrap can last about 6-12 months.

UNBLEACHED: off-white colour with tiny specks. This is the natural colour of cotton and the specks are bits of the cotton plant itself.

ASSORTED PRINTS: made with recycled cotton fabric, leftover cotton fabric from other projects, or bolt ends from the fabric store too small to use otherwise. Every print will be different!