4th R Creations began in November of 2007 in the studio of Janie Caldwell. A lover of fabric and color she began to see how felting (washing wool at extremely high temperatures) old sweaters found at thrift shops could be used for a variety of products. The idea of using something that would eventually be discarded appealed to her sense of "being green". A portion of all 4th R profits is donated to causes that benefit the environment and humankind.

The totes and purses were Janie's first attempts and were well received at a church fundraiser auction. Then Janie's Mother-in-Law said "I cannot find a nice tea cozy". Ding! Ding! Ding! The funky tea cozy from felted material was born. Janie has always supported several non-profits in Michigan and Indiana and felt this might be a way to give back and do her art.