How to Switch to Plastic-Free Stationery Without Sacrificing Style or Function

Plastic Free July is the perfect time to take a fresh look at the things we use every day – and for those of us who love a good notebook, a stash of pens, or pretty paper bits, stationery is a brilliant place to start.

Plastic Free July is all about refusing single-use plastics where we can. And let’s face it – our pencil cases, desks, and craft drawers can be sneaky spots where plastic still lingers. But the good news? It’s easier than you think to find plastic-free alternatives that still feel joyful to use. Here are some simple swaps and ideas to help you make the switch – or at least take a few steps in the right direction.

I’ve popped a few of my favourite plastic-free stationery finds below (with affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to buy through them – at no extra cost to you).

1. Go for Wooden or Refillable Pens

Plastic pens are often ending up in landfill because they aren't able to be refilled, they’re a perfect place to make a change.

Look for:

• Wooden pens with metal components – beautifully tactile and biodegradable (aside from the ink refill).

• Refillable fountain pens or rollerballs – a classic option that feels like a treat to write with.

• Another option is to choose pens made from recycled plastic or plantable pencils that can have a new life when they are finished with!
  

2. Notebooks with a Past Life

We all know the lure of a fresh notebook. But you don’t have to give that up! Just choose ones made from recycled paper or even upcycled materials like old book covers or coffee cups.

Many eco-friendly notebooks are now even more stylish, with beautiful covers, and different paper styles.

3. Highlight Without the Plastic

Traditional highlighters are bright and bold… but full of plastic. Wooden highlighters are a clever alternative – they work like pencils, so they last for ages, and they’re biodegradable too. Another idea is trying recycled paper sticky notes. Both options are perfect for planners, journaling, or colour-coding your to-do list without adding to your plastic footprint.

4. Stick With Paper Tape

Ditch the shiny plastic sticky tape in favour of paper-based washi tapes or kraft paper tape. These are brilliant for wrapping parcels, scrapbooking, or sealing up envelopes – and they’re fully recyclable. (Plus: They look lovely and add a handmade feel to anything you use them on.)

5. 'Naked' Cards and Giftwrap

Cellophane sleeves are a standard in the greetings card world – but they're one of those unnecessary extras that’s easy to ditch.

Look for:

• Cards and giftwrap that come 'naked', i.e., without cellophane wrap

• Sellers who use paper belly bands or just post their cards with minimal packaging

It might feel like a small thing, but multiplied across birthdays, thank-yous, and thinking-of-yous, it really adds up. My go-to place to order 'naked' greetings cards is Thortful, an online marketplace supporting independent artists, who print to order in the UK. Having used cellophane for protection for many years, I am now moving away from this and all wrap ordered from my Giftwrapped by Eve online store now comes 'naked'.

6. Scrap Your Notes

Got offcuts of paper, old to-do lists, or envelopes you’ve opened? Use the blank sides for jotting down notes, reminders, or grocery lists.

It’s a great habit to get into, in fact it's one I have used for years! If you keep a little tray or jar for scraps on your desk, you’ll always have a paper note to hand without tearing a fresh sheet out of a notebook.

Small Swaps, Big Impact

Plastic-Free July isn’t about perfection – it’s about being a bit more mindful and trying alternatives that are better for the planet. When you run out of something, just ask yourself: Is there a lower-waste version I could try instead?

You don’t have to swap everything at once. Just pick one thing that feels doable – and see how it goes. Every little switch adds up, and your desk will be looking more eco-chic in no time! Share how you got on, tag me in your stories on Instagram or post in my Facebook community 'Giftwrapped by Eve - Learn Eco Giftwrapping'.