Explore materials. See possibilities. Know what to check.
Turn material inspiration into a shortlist you can investigate. This Sustainable Materials Mood Board helps you explore circular materials, reclaimed materials and other options for your next product, packaging or space.
In 20–30 minutes, collect visual references, discuss practical requirements and identify the sourcing questions to answer before investing.
Who is this template for?
Founders, designers and small business teams exploring material choices. Use it independently to organise your research or collaboratively to compare ideas and agree on what to investigate next.
When should you use it?
Use it early in a design project, when reconsidering an existing material or before contacting suppliers and ordering samples. It’s particularly useful when you have inspiring references but need to check whether they fit your requirements, budget and timeline.
How to use this template
Define what you need. Describe what you’re creating, what the material must do and your main constraints. Consider strength, weight, appearance, durability, quantity and timing.
Collect material inspiration. Add images, sample photos, links or descriptions of three to five materials. Record what you like, possible uses and sources or suppliers to investigate.
Ask what matters. Explore each option’s origin, suitability, availability, total cost and potential next life. Mark unanswered questions as “To check.”
Choose what to explore next. Shortlist one or two promising materials. Agree on a next step, such as requesting a sample, checking evidence or testing suitability, and assign an owner and deadline.
Tip: Include delivery, preparation and treatment costs when comparing options. A material that looks promising may need additional work before it is suitable for your project.
What you’ll leave with
A visual collection of material options.
A shortlist connected to your project’s needs.
Clear questions for suppliers and further research.
Practical next steps with owners and deadlines.
An example card featuring reclaimed timber shows how to connect visual inspiration with sourcing questions and a concrete next action.
Recycled, reclaimed or renewable does not automatically mean lower environmental impact. This template helps you identify what to investigate before making a material choice or environmental claim.
