Friday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• Repurposing worn sneakers

• Sunset of the day on the water

• Solve a family mystery from your phone

• The home trend replacing minimalism

True or False?

Candles made from soy or beeswax burn cleaner than traditional paraffin candles.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Repurposing Worn Sneakers

In downtown Oakland, California, a new kind of classroom is taking shape: one built on creativity, community, and sustainability. At SoleSpace Lab, local teens are learning how to sew, design, and restore sneakers from scratch.

Founded by Jeff Perlstein, the lab offers classes and internships that teach both craft and consciousness. Students learn the full life cycle of footwear, from production to disposal, while customizing and upcycling donated shoes. The goal is simple but powerful: give young people hands-on skills and a deeper understanding of how fashion impacts the planet.

Over six weeks, students from local high schools practiced patience and precision as they stitched, cut, and rebuilt sneakers by hand. Their final projects (custom-made shoes) show what can happen when creativity meets purpose.

For Perlstein, the mission goes beyond sneakers. “Oakland has always been a hub of creativity and social impact,” he says. “This is about investing in both.”

Sunset of the Day on the Water

The Canopy reader Leighy sent in this golden-hour moment from the back of a boat. The kind of summer evening that makes you want to stretch time just a little longer.

Thanks, Leighy, for bringing us along for the ride. Have your own view to share? Send it our way for a chance to be featured.

Step Into the Mystery Everyone’s Talking About

June’s Journey is a beautifully crafted hidden object mystery game that transports players to the dazzling world of the 1920s.

Step into the shoes of June Parker, a sharp and determined amateur detective, as she unravels the secrets behind her sister’s murder and uncovers long-buried family mysteries.

Each chapter takes you deeper into the story, with beautifully designed scenes that reveal new clues and plot twists.

Start solving the mystery.

Thank you to June’s Journey for sponsoring The Canopy.

The Home Trend Replacing Minimalism

The latest home trend making waves isn’t about buying new. It’s about appreciating what you already have. Known as “underconsumption core,” this movement challenges the cycle of constant buying and redecorating, encouraging people to make their homes functional, cozy, and sustainable, without excess.

It starts with taking stock. Sort your belongings into categories to see what you truly use and what’s just taking up space. From there, decorate slowly. Wait a week before purchasing that new lamp or art print to make sure it’s not just an impulse buy. Investing in long-lasting, versatile furniture pieces made from solid materials also helps reduce waste over time.

A few other small shifts go a long way: try the “one in, one out” rule for new purchases and add life to your home with propagated or thrifted plants. The heart of underconsumption is about intention. A slower, simpler home doesn’t just feel calmer; it’s gentler on your wallet and the planet, too.

Quick Picks:

From beauty hacks to wardrobe wins, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🎨 Take a color analysis quiz to simplify your closet

• 🖌️ Make your own non-toxic makeup brush cleaner

• 🧺 Learn how to dry-clean your clothes at home

Final Thoughts:

Uncover hidden clues and solve a family mystery in June’s Journey. Step into the 1920s and become part of a world full of secrets and intrigue.

Play June’s Journey for free.

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True. They produce less soot and are often toxin-free.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!