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100 Useful Recycled Projects – Crafts Out Of Recycled Materials
You will love recycling and reusing old things and waste materials after seeing these unique recycling ideas for reusing your old stuff. What materials can be recycled, and how are they recycled for home projects? What things we can be made from recycled materials that we can use for DIY home decor projects , crafts and kids projects? Wait!! I’ll explain recycled art here for you. First, try to maintain the good health of the planet by reducing pollution!
What adds a lot to environmental pollution is the garbage, plastic scrap materials, and dangerous chemically treated items that we throw into landfills without any hesitation! A big positive step to reduce increasing global pollution is recycling . Yes, you can recycle the old materials to make useful home decor projects and recycling projects for schools out of waste materials. It will help reduce garbage piles and also in making the land a bit more beautiful!
You can recycle almost anything that you can use in your home decor projects. Just to provide you with all the best recycling ideas, we have shared this big collection of 100 useful recycled projects and crafts out of recycled materials. These waste materials recycling ideas will show you how you can recycle lots of retired, expired, and old materials to make worthy and functional diy recycled crafts! This list of recycling ideas will help turn the trash into treasures that you will love to cherish for years to come! Here You are going to have big fun while doing these recycled crafts !
Creative recycling ideas for the home decor projects:
Recycle the old plastic bottles and wrap the rope around them and make perfect pendant lamps ! Repurpose your old denim jeans and make fabulous jean planters that will make fantastic garden or backyard decor centerpieces! Recycle the glass jars and containers to make enchanting candle holders or votives. Also, repurpose the old water bottles to make precious air balloon crafts and toys for the kids! Instead of putting an old t-shirt into the trash, make an apron out of it. Keep using your old leather jackets by making fashion-worthy totes and handbags! Repurpose the cork trivets and embroidery hoops and make outstanding hanging planter holders and boost your fashion by making exceptional denim bags with your old jeans!
You can recycle pallet wood , mason jars , old tires, plastic bottles, tin cans, old jeans, old furniture , and tons of recycled materials to make fun diy recycled crafts and useful things. Browse the entire list of these useful recycled projects and recycling art ideas to see some ready-made examples! To make these recycled projects check the attached tutorials!
You may also enjoy these PVC pipe projects to make functional things for your home.
DIY Plastic Bottle and Rope Lampshade:
Maybe the pendant lamp lights are a big need for space at outdoor where you often like to sit with friends. Don’t buy them expensive as you can make them at home using simple materials like rope or recycled plastic bottles. To give a spark to your creativity, look at the lovely given sample. Full details here ohohdeco
You can also try these upcycling ideas for the home to make functional things out of recycled material.
DIY Blue Jean Planters:
Don’t put your old jeans also in the trash as they can be recycled in numerous different ways to style up your spaces and gardens. Fill the jeans like the real legs of a man using potting soil or other materials and then plant your favorite herbs or flowers to topside getting adorable jean planters. Full instructions here instructables
DIY Dollar Store Candle Holders:
Candlelight decor has had a great reputation, so make also candlelight centerpieces using recycled and dollar store materials. Grab the dollar store candle holders, get them decorated with glitter and mod-podge treatment, and next put your favorite candle lights inside. Full how-to tutorial here ishouldbemoppin
Make Water Bottle Hot Air Balloons:
The hanging decor and ornament to make for the kids room using the old and recycled water bottles, gorgeous hot air balloon decor to make for kids bedrooms. Just paint the water bottle for a striped balloon appeal and then add a mini basket is having a little toy sitting inside. Full how-to tutorial here asthebunnyhops
How to Turn T-shirt Into Apron:
Don’t let your old t-shirts go wasted, make gorgeous aprons out of them will help get in the kitchen like a pro. Just cut your t-shirts into an apron shape and next sew it again in place. A smart recycled t-shirt project will be a smart solution to keep using your old t-shirts. Step-by-step instructions here makermama
Turn an Old Leather Coat Into a Tote Bag:
May you have nothing to do with your old leather coats, sew them again into beautiful and durable leather tote bags will help style up your shopping routines. This leather tote bag will also make a handsome gift for a beloved one and is quite simple and easy to make. Step-by-step instructions here swoodsonsays
DIY Hanging Shelf Out of Embroidery Hoops:
Upcycle your old embroidery hoops and wood rounds to whip up epic handing decor and centerpieces. Fit together the embroidery hoops, and next make them hold a cork round inside to build a hanging embroidery hoop shelf. It will nicely hold your pots and other accents in the air for bigger style statements. Details here stitchedmodern
Easy DIY Bag from Old Jeans:
Your old denims can be the next most durable fabric in your home. So, why not get rid of your old jeans by doing some sewing projects with them? Just cut your old jeans to cut again according to the bag template. Sew the bag and add with the matching straps, will live for years to come. Complete tutorial here hearthandvine
Upcycle an Old Tray to DIY a Pin Board:
Repurpose your old trays to make adorable memo boards will nicely hold your items, messages, and to-do list to remember all the time. Just add up a tray with a cork sheet, will be super soft to mount your things on using nails or thumbtacks. How-to guides here thecraftables
Make Bath Caddy from Recycled Wood:
You will love this recycled wood plank will serve in your bathroom. Just sand a reclaimed wood slat well and stain in the way you like, next use it as a bathtub tray, will hold your refreshments, books and candle lights. A simple but great project to do with recycled wood planks. Full how-to guides here daintydressdiaries
Make Rainbow-hued Sequin Piggy Banks:
Check these recycling ideas for kids and encourage them in the home to collect the money by giving these sweet rainbow-hued sequin piggy banks . They are cute gifts to give to your kids and every beloved one in or out of the home. Here you need empty chip tubes with lids, decorative paper , and rainbow sequins to do this project. Full instructions here handmadecharlotte
DIY Candle Container to Planter:
Get also crafty with the empty candle containers and recycle them to build fabulous DIY planters , will make outstanding indoor and outdoor decor . Marbleize the finally completed candle container planters for a gorgeous appeal. Step-by-step tutorial here papernstitch
Simple DIY Cushion Cover from a T-shirt:
Do you want to see that for which purpose you can upcycle your old shirts? Then sew them a little more and make fabulous cushion covers out of them, a better way to keep in touch with your old t-shirts. Here this cushion cover is made of a navy t-shirt. Full how-to guides here thecraftygentleman
Quick DIY Plastic Bottle Organizer:
We bring lots of items in a home packed in the plastic bottles , one of the bigger wastes polluting the environments. So, don’t throw your plastic bottles to dumpsters to decay in the soil, reuse them to build fabulous accessory organizers like this given one, made of plastic recycling . Full tutorial here alittlecraftiny
DIY Boho Fringed Planter Using Tin Can:
You can’t imagine that this bohemian planter of centerpiece worth, is made of a recycled tin can. Add the boho yarn fringe all around the tin cans and next start potting in them to make one-of-a-kind planters for your garden and outdoor decor. Full how-to tutorial here ohohdeco
Cute DIY Decoupaged Water Bottles:
Check out here this another smarter recycled project, adorn the water bottles with a decoupage treatment and next start using them as amazing storage options in a home like as an organizer, accessory holder or as a planter. Complete how-to tutorial here handmadecharlotte
Homemade Tin Can Planters:
Tin cans are one of the most commonly found materials lying around. They are one of the most versatile material for easy crafts . Paint the tin cans, and then stencil for custom quotes and next fill them up with your favorite planters or cut flowers. You will love the way these tin can planters will serve in your home. Full how-to guides here thebestideasforkids
Make a Felt Rug Out of Recycled Sweaters:
You can’t wear the same fashion, again and again! so better way it would be to recycle your old sweaters to make something else extra beautiful like this super colorful felt rug. Use the old sweater and felt to make it; everyone will stare twice at the enticing design pattern of this felt rug. A beautiful recycled sweater project made using upcycling methods. Full how-to guides here pillarboxblue
Empty Diaper Box Into a Fabric Storage Bin:
Keep using those old diaper boxes to gain new amazing storage options out of them for your home. Plan an empty diaper box to store the fabric and put your about-to-spend money in your pocket. A better and stylish DIY storage bin to keep stocks of leftover or old fabric. Full how-to tutorial here gina-michele
DIY Flower Vase from Plastic Bottle:
Grab the recycled plastic bottles with fetching design textures, paint them in the way you like, gold and black paint color combination will rock. Next, fill potting soil in your painted bottles and add custom cut flowers and herb stems inside. Get inspired by the sample recycled plastic bottle flower vases. Full tutorial here theseamanmom
DIY Pencil Holder from Empty Tin Cans:
Wrap your recycled tin can in decorative papers and start using them as brilliant pencil organizers in your home. They will rock on a computer desk or a study table and will be a great pleasure to make at home also. Try this pencil holder made from recycled materials here! grillo-designs
How to Make Marbled Clay Bottle:
Prep the marbled clay and wrap it around a recycled glass bottle to make a marbled clay bottle vase. Next, finish it up with decorative gemstones and given an oven bake to get a durable centerpiece vase for your DIY home decor. Complete tutorial here deliciousanddiy
Upcycle Cookies Box Into Flower Pot:
Get the benefits of recycling and repurpose the empty cookies boxes and wrap them in the finger stamped papers. Next, reuse them as enticing flower pots in your garden just by filling a little potting soil in them. An excellently smart garden decor project using recycled items. How-to details here journeycreativity
Upcycled Jean Pocket Pouch:
You can’t keep up with the same jeans all year long, so reuse your old jeans to make amazing functional stuff, accessories, and DIY home decor projects. Reuse the separated apart jean pockets to make this glam pouch, will also be a cute pencil holder for the kids. Details here mypoppet
DIY Glam Coffee Can Flower Vase:
Upcycle the coffee cans to build lasting longer and durable kind of flower vases will never get out of style. Garnish your sitting spaces with the ready-made sample, will greet all the guests sitting around if placed on a coffee or dining table. Experiment this coffee cans with both real or fake flowers. Details here petticoatjunktion
Bird Feeders from Plastic Bottles:
Having nothing to do with the clear plastic tennis tubes? Then do get crafty with them to build outstanding bird feeders , will be a praise-worthy addition to any garden or patio area. Use popsicle sticks to add perches also paint them for custom striped or color block appeal. Step-by-step instructions here handmadecharlotte
DIY Tin Can Silverware Caddy:
Tin can, when getting empty, make the perfect organizers. Yes, you can fill them with custom items that need immediate storage. Paint the tin cans and get them to organize your cutlery on the dining tables. Need a cool inspiration? Then have a look at this tin can silverware caddy. Full how-to guides here pastelsandmac
Zipless Cushion Cover Using Old Leather Jacket:
Check out here a better way to upcycle your old leather jackets that are no longer in use. If you have developed love with them, then you must make this zipless cushion covers out of them. An excellent way to keep in touch with your old leather jackets, these cushion covers will last for years to come. Full tutorial here threadbarecloak
DIY Recycled Handbag Picnic Caddy:
Have you ever thought about what to do with the old fashion accessories while buying new and trendy ones? Upcycle them into something else and different like this picnic caddy made of a recycled handbag. It is easy to carry with caddy and will make you overenjoy a tour or picnic. Step-by-step guides here acraftymix
Easy DIY Cigar Box Chalkboard:
A cigar box, when getting empty, can be used in numerous different ways in the home for both storage and decorative purposes. Employ it to store your accessories or chalkboard paint it to serve as a chalkboard in your home. Write custom quotes inside or draw custom art shapes outside. Full how-to guides here hellolittlehome
Antiques Paint Cart from Old Cupboard:
You will pass lots of praising comments after looking at this paint cart, a smartly creative remake of an old cupboard. Use extra wood to install the edged top, add hooks in the side for tool hanging and hang the antique stenciled wood plank signs on the background wall for casting a rustic atmosphere there. Full how-to guides and tutorial here funkyjunkinteriors
Wall Pocket Organizers from Lotion Bottles:
Don’t trash away from the old shampoo and lotion bottles. They can be of great importance when need to organized. Yes, cut them half and hang on the wall hooks as next most affordable wall pocket organizers, will nicely hold your tools, materials, and accessories. Complete how-to guides here homeyohmy
You may also like these unique and imaginative wall storage ideas to decorate your home walls in a unique style.
Makeup Storage Trays Using Shoe-boxes:
Get helped by the empty shoe boxes in alluring makeup organization. Yes, use the empty shoeboxes to store your makeup. Spray paint the shoeboxes for a custom appeal and add dividers for smarter storage options in them. One more recycled craft project that all style lovers will love. Full how-to guides here sparkandche
Awesome DIY Aluminium Can Vase:
Are you a big fan of interesting things? Then you will get ten out of ten to this colorful aluminum can vase, a bizarre vase to get for any space garnishing. Spray paint an aluminum can, then roll over the colorful paint dots for a colorfully painted appeal. Finish with your favorite cut flowers and enjoy. Complete how-to guides here journeycreativity
Homemade Jetpack from Soda Bottles:
Please, your kids who want to be an astronaut with these soda bottle jetpacks, easy to make kids fun gift. This recycling project will also help to boost outdoor activities of your kids. Spray paint the soda bottles in any metallic paint for a metal look and make the bursting fire using red and orange paper strips. Guides here sugarspiceand
DIY Up-cycled Indoor Herb Garden:
Tin cans can be your next inspirations to jazz up your indoor spaces. Manage a good stock of tin cans as per the demand of decorative vases to have in-home. Spray paint them in gold or copper for an elegant metallic appeal and then start planting herbs in them to make beautiful indoor herb gardens. Full how-to guides and tutorial here lovelyindeed
Make Recycled T-shirt Market Tote:
Repurpose old t-shirts to make this very special market tote, will turn shopping into big fun. This handsome tote bag will be super easy to sew and soft to wear over the shoulder. This project will involve precise fabric cuttings, taking measurements, and accurate sewing. Full tutorial here helloglow
Up-cycled Rainbow Pallet Flower Garden Planter:
Improve the overall aesthetics of your garden by building a gorgeous focal point inside. This rainbow pallet vertical planter will make an ideal choice in this case. Paint each deck board slat in different paint color and then make them hold the planter buckets using hose clamps. Full tutorial here hellocreativefamily
Gorgeous DIY Recycled Jeans Tin Can Planters:
Accomplish your enticing decor desires with these recycled jeans and tin can planters, everyone will love to stare at twice. Wrap the recycled tin can in the old jean fabric and build gorgeous denim tin can planters. Get your coffee tables, accent shelves, and decorative mantled graced up instantly with these recycled planters. Step-by-step instructions here pillarboxblue
How to Turn Paint Can Into Ice Bucket:
Clean the empty paint can and wrap in decorative papers for building awesome ice buckets, will raise your party fun. Employ also your recycled paint cans to add brilliant storage in your home. They can perform in several different ways at home. Full tutorial here heyletsmakestuff
Grocery Bags Into Toy Storage Bin:
Get your hands onto the grocery bags and start employing them storing toys in kids rooms and bedrooms. Here the grocery bags have been stenciled for brilliant art names are looking damn cool. This creative recycling will never make you put the grocery bags in the trash again. Complete tutorial here hellowonderful
DIY Painted Glass Bottle Vases:
The glass bottles are ideal things to make decorative vases , and you can paint them for a striped appeal for more amazing looks. Use the masking tape and then spray paint your glass bottles for a graceful striped look, next fill with your favorite cut flowers. How-to details here homeyohmy
Make Baby Blanket Using Up-cycled T-shirts:
Earn more love of a mother-to-be friend by making this gorgeous baby blanket, made of recycled t-shirts and can be given as a sweet handmade gift. Take good care of your old t-shirts as they can be next most comfy blankets for your babies. Full how-to instructions here polkadotchair
How to DIY Succulent Planter:
The succulent planters are the most favorite when need to bring the natural decor vibes to space. Grow them in the recycled lanterns to let them do more decorative to your spaces. Look at the creative designs, that are looking amazingly beautiful, will be a graceful addition to a dining or coffee table. Details here consumercrafts
DIY Up-cycled Rustic Rope Planter:
Make your way to expensive decor by recycling the plastic bottles. Yes, they are damn feasible to turn into planters, can be brought to a unique rustic appeal by wrapping jute or rustic rope around as you can see. A brilliant recycled plastic bottle planter to make at home. Full how-to guides here acharmingproject
Recycle an Old Bike Frame Into a Wreath:
The wheels from the old and broken upcycle may have great recycling ideas for home and can be recycled in many different way sin home. Upload some greenery and faux flowers on painted recycled bike wheels and use it as a brilliant decorative wreath on the wall, will give a warm welcome to a spring season. Complete how-to guides here daintydressdiaries
Simple DIY Cookie Sheet Magnetic Board:
Upcycle the cookie sheets to make brilliant magnetic boards, will make outstanding memo boards for a pegboard wall. Here sample magnetic board hangs on the wall through rustic rope and will whip up super quickly. A recycled project that is truly a big fun to do. How-to details here craftsbyamanda
DIY Advent Calendar Using Egg Carton:
You will love this creative concept to recycle the egg carton , and they can next be hanged on your favorite walls as a gorgeous advent calendar. It will come packed with interesting candies gifts and surprises and will be a big surprise itself too. Here is how to make it ohohdeco
Make Sunburst Mirror with Plastic Spoons:
Repurpose the wood spoons to make cool sunburst mirrors, will be loved dearly by all the home lovers at home. Basic materials you need here are the foam core board, round mirror, and white plastic spoons. The most beauteous type of decor to add to any interior home wall. Complete how-to guides here creativegreenliving
You recycle the driftwood for your DIY home decor projects; for this purpose we have these best driftwood mirror for you to DIY.
Recycle Plastic Bucket Into Small Stool for Children:
It would definitely be a unique concept for you to transform a plastic bucket into a small stool, will work great as stepstool for kids. Grab a plastic recycled bucket, give smart cuts to gain art style legs and then make use of a wooden round to install a durable stool berth. Full how-to guides here ohohdeco
How to Make Denim Play Crown:
Denim is one of the most durable and good looking fabric, use it also to make lovely crowns for little girls and kids. Cut and sew a crown out of denim having saw-tooth edges and next sew on fabric start and diamond accents. Get inspired of the given crown, the perfect gift to give to a kid. Full how-to tutorial here creativegreenliving
DIY Sushi Mat Makeup Brush Roll:
If you strive for good looks all the time and love to keep your makeup with you then you must make this sushi mat makeup brush roll, will take good care of your makeup brushes. Just wear through a red hot ribbon that will hold the makeup brushes in place beautifully. Full how-to tutorial here cremedelacraft
DIY Vintage Suitcase Table:
Raise the vintage recycled suitcases onto reclaimed wood stools and build fantastic suitcase tables, will make brilliant nightstands and side tables . The turquoise painted appeal will never get out of style. A perfectly cute and stylish vintage table to make with recycled items. Full how-to guides here awesomesauc
DIY Planter with a Plastic Bottle:
It would be easier to start potting in half cut recycled plastic bottles , so why not put them in recycled fabric baskets, for making more epic and glam looking fabric planters, will keep their shape. Some highly epic work has been done here to impress you. Get any space look elevated with this glorious handmade planter . How-to tutorial here ohohdeco
DIY Apron from a Button-up Shirt:
May be you are having lot of button shirts lying useless in your home. So, do get busy them with your scissor and sewing machine to sew beautiful aprons out of them. They will make a cool gift for a kitchen mom and for everyone who loves to be in the kitchen all the time. Step-by-step instructions here mybluprint
Make Ottoman from a Tyre and Rope:
Get your living room styled up with this recycled tire and rope ottoman, will be a graceful rustic addition to any room. Cover both sides of a tyre with wooden rounds, next wrap the rope all around until everything gets covered. Step-by-step instructions here home-dzine
DIY Recycle Tire Planter:
Just cover solid the bottoms of the recycled tyres and paint them in enchanting different colors. By doing so, you will get some beautiful , super durable and cost-efficient planters for amazing garden renovations. Checkout here an alluring rainbow stack of different painted recycled tire planters. Full instructions here lemonbeanandthings
How to Make Light Bulb Vase:
Repurpose also your old glass bulbs and build the amazing vases out of them by removing their metal backs. Fill little water in them and finish by putting some cut flowers in the glass bulb vases. Use the solid wire to make self-standing light bulb vase sands, will beautifully hold your vases and other accent. How-to tutorial here themerrythought
Candy Stand Using Repurposed Plastic Bottles:
Separate apart the solid bottoms from the plastic bottles and then tier them up on a wooden dowel making a lovely candy stand. A genius recycling of plastic bottles that are often to lying around as a big plastic waste. It comes with a flat round plate stand to stand alone in a style. Full how-to guides here instructables
Make a Ketchup Bottle Hanging Bird Feeder:
Allow your favorite birds visit your garden everyday by building gorgeous feeders for them. Make also a cool bird feeder out of recycled ketchup bottle and it can be hanged aloft in your garden as a brilliant hanging decor too. Complete how-to tutorial here wildlifegadgetman
Build French-style Bench from Old Chairs:
Bring a touch of French style living to your garden by building this French-style outdoor bench is a brilliant sitting furniture creation done with two old chairs. Combine the separated apart chair back with rear legs, through a big robust bench birth and here you go. Full tutorial here anoregoncottage
Recycled Shutter Mason Jar Herb Garden:
Window shutters are also one of those materials that are easy to find and can be recycled in tons of different ways. Add up a wooden window shutter Mason jar herb planters , can easily be mount on the wood shutter using white accent ribbon. Decorate it more using a floral wreath too. Complete tutorial here sheknows
DIY Coffee Can Into a Planter Bucket:
Do simple creative operations and give your expired materials a life again! Often the coffee cans are not more than a piece of trash, but they can help create a joyful spot anywhere in your home by being a gorgeous planter bucket! Nothing you have to spend to get this beauty! Tutorial here thewickerhouse
How to Turn Tin Can Into Luminaries:
It has always been a matter of great pleasure to jazz up the most visited places in or out of your home with a lovely assortment of light decor! Repurpose the tin can to make no-cost but arresting luminaries, will spread romance to any targeted space! How-to details here consumercrafts
DIY Quilt Rack From a Headboard:
If you make a quick search in your home trash store where often the crumbled furniture pieces are stored then time to take out an old headboard from there. Refurbish a headboard and start organizing the quilts on its spindles getting a gorgeous quilt rack, a prudent smart recycled project for home organization. Details here brepurposed
Turn Dresser Drawer to Storage Box:
Let the old dresser serve more in your home by doing a little creative recycling with them. Take the dresser drawers out and paint them for getting into the targeted appearance. Add legs for a cool height and cushion its inside if you are going to use it as a pet bed. It will work ideally to store toys. Full how-to guides here twoityourself . You may also like this easy to make a DIY Cat tree for your cats.
Upcycled Lampshade Vases:
Decorative lampshades are the real beauty of light lamps so you can separate them apart from old lamps for making decorative stuff like these cool and colorful vases. Decorate the recycled lampshades for a gorgeous fun appeal and fill with greenery and cut flowers then. How-to tutorial here thehousethatl
How to Make Upcycled Utensil Holders:
The recycling can be a very first aid to environmental pollution so be in it to contribute in getting healthy ecosystems. Upcycle also the old wood chunks and lengths to make something very special, will serve long throughout your life like this utensil holder, a handsome kitchen decor too. Full how-to guides here homemade
How to Turn Candle Jar Into Cotton Ball Holder:
Don’t throw your things away that you can recycle, it will add in the environment pollution. So, instead of putting the old candle jars, make brilliant organizers out of them like this cotton ball holder. An amazing reuse of a candle jar getting retired from your home. Full tutorial here dwellbeautiful
Build a Found Bed Frame Bench:
After looking at this bench you will never think again to waste an old bed? Use extra wood and recycled old bed headboard and components to build this stable outdoor bench , has an arresting design appeal. Use decorative crystal finials and wood accents to decorate the bench design more. How-to tutorial here hometalk
Easy to Make Teacup Bird Feeder:
See your old teacups and saucers feeding your favorite birds in your garden. Give them a birdseed fill and hang above on a height to be easily accessible to birds. Here rustic jute or rope provides table hanging to teacup bird feeder. Complete how-to guides here practicallyfunctional
DIY Repurposed Colander Pendant Lights:
Upcycle a colander also to build fascinating pendant lights, will never get out of style. Being just above your dining table or kitchen countertops, they will be a big reason of extra grace to both in your kitchen and dining room. Use a pendant lamp kit and a colander to make colander pendant lights. Recycled projects details here handimania
How to Make Enamel Mug Organizer:
Get also a big help from the enamel mugs to get organized. Yes, fix your recycled enamel mugs on a wood plank in custom horizontal or vertical arrangements and get a brilliant organizer there on the wall. The best part is you can also avail the mug handles as hooks to hang your stuff safely. Full tutorial here homeroad
Repurposed Shutters Bathroom Shelf:
Don’t spend a lot in buying new things as you can build most of them with recycled materials. This bathroom shelf will surely make you think out of the box, a repurposed shutter project for instant bathroom organization. The best shelf to organize toiletries and to display bathroom decor too. Instructions here simplicityinthesouth
How to Make Shutters Organizers:
Proceed with recycled shutter in your hand to style up your home, give them a stable wall mount and add up with custom knobs, hooks and shelves for getting home organization stations. Learn more by taking a look at the sample demonstrations, shared to inspire. Details here craftsbyamanda
DIY Salvaged Window Frame Mirror:
Cancel discarding the window frames to dumpsters, scheme them up to make arresting wall mirrors, will help bring the modern elegance prudently to your dwelling. This window frame mirror will be a long awaited wish of many of us, now you can get it almost for free. A more than creative recycled project. Details here craftynest
Make a Chalkboard Out of an Old Window:
Want to bring a touch of shabby chic or vintage living in your home? Then feature the chalkboards in your home, here is the best way to do so. Make a chalkboard out of a recycled window, will involve painting the window panels with chalkboard paint . A quick and smart recycling of old windows. How-to guides here theshabbycreek
Build a Cold Frame Using Old Window:
The most innovative concept of reusing the old windows, will definitely win the heart of a garden lover seeking low-cost ways for off season gardening. Use extra wood and glass paneled windows to install beautiful mini greenhouses in your garden , the smarter way to upcycle your old windows. Free plans and tutorial here growgardentomatoes
DIY Entry Bench from Old Door:
Leave you guest stunned and amazed by adjusting this entryway bench for a cool first impression. Here an old door has been recycled to play a functional role of an entry room bench, will be a better alternative too for a hall tree. It also comes with a drawer built-in the seat. Full how-to tutorial here friendly-home
Amazing DIY Bicycle Wheel Clock:
Greet your guest who are first time in your home with this one-of-a-kind wall clock , made of a recycled bicycle wheels and is something highly fascinating. Use the wooden rulers or yard sticks to make epic clock hands, install clock movements in the center of the wheels and paint roman clock numerals on the wall. Full how-to tutorial here thistlewoodfarms
Easy to Make Frame Shelves:
Repurpose also the old photo frames to make gorgeous display wall shelves. Use extra wood to give a bit more depth to them and then hang a collection of them on the wall in custom configurations. Here these frame shelves hang just above wall mounted study desk for bigger style statements. Details here shanty-2-chic
DIY Recycle Bottle Watering Can:
Assist yourself in easy maintenance of your garden by building a cool watering can out of recycled plastic bottles. Make miniature shower holes in the lid of the recycled plastic bottle and that’s it. A super quick, low-cost but durable watering can to make at any time of need. Full how-to tutorial here ajourneytoadream
Make Curbside Dresser Into a Bar:
Keep the parties going on at your outdoor by building cost-efficient diy bar cart at home. Transform also your old furniture into functional designs of outdoor bars, will be a smarter way too to keep using your old furniture. This storage-friendly and well painted design of bar is made of a recycled curbside dresser. Full how-to guides here hometalk
Plastic-bottle Zipper Container:
You will simply get amazed while looking at this sweet mini creation, the plastic bottle zipper container, will be an ideal choice to store your accessories with care. It will make a great pencil organize for school going kids. You only need the plastic bottle bottom halves and a zipper to make it. How-to guides here popsugar
Bird Feeder Using Plastic Bottle:
Feeding birds make you feel proud honestly, recycle the plastic bottles for this good cause and build no-cost bird feeders out of them. Pass the wooden spoons straight through the plastic bottles to gain also cool perches for cool bird sitting. The perfect birdfeeder that will fill automatically. Step-by-step guides here handimania
Build Palette Wood Centerpiece:
Giving a second chance to wooden pallets can make you get with this, the sweet and lovely floral centerpiece made of a pallet wood box. Get a few slats of wooden pallets to make this centerpiece box made and fill it up with your favorite cut flowers. Complete how-to guides here daintydressdiaries
How to Make Tea Tin Planters:
Creative recycling can make you get treasure out of trash. Recover these awesome succulent planter beauties out of recycled tea tins, will be whole natural centerpieces to go with for amazing garnishing of your spaces. You are to use much less extra in this project that is a breeze to do. How-to tutorial here demetres
DIY Noir Leather Earrings Tutorial:
The leather lace is often to use in various projects for accent side trimming, have a little leftover in your crafting room? Make gorgeous DIY earrings using the leather lace, lacquered cylinders, crystal beads, ribbon crimps and ear hooks. Do add these sample noir leather earrings in your earring collections. Full tutorial here jewelsofsayuri
Cherry Blossom Hula Hoop Wreath:
Don’t treat the leftover hula hoops like a waste in your home, they can be a next most prominent decor in your home. Paint a hula hoop in pink and then transform it into handsome cherry blossom wreath using faux cherry blossoms and green spring garland. The pink white appeal will surely mesmerize the onlookers. Tutorial here craftsbyamanda
Upcycle Plastic Jars Into Mini Planters:
Save your planet getting dirty by recycling the old and expired items. Make also outstanding planters out of upcycled plastic jars, will be the cutest natural centerpieces to add to your spaces. Spray paint the plastic containers for a stone look and the wrap the rope around their opening for a more stunning appeal. How-to tutorial here homeyohmy
DIY Terra Cotta Pot Chair Planter:
Upcycle your old chairs also to build lasting longer and durable planters, will be a great addition to your patio and outdoor areas for amazing visual details. Spray paint a recycled chair in black and then fit a black painted terra cotta pot in its seat and get a stunning patio or garden centerpiece. Full instructions here morenascorner
Wool Sweaters Into Patchwork Throw:
Sorting out smart way to reuse your old wood sweaters? Then you must make some outstanding patchwork throws out of them, an inventive way to live more with your old wood sweaters. Take your old wood sweaters into lovely hexagon and then sew them together to make lovely throws . Full how-to tutorial here pillarboxblue
DIY Nursery Art From Cabinet Door:
Bring back those broken up furniture pieces in your home in some different ways and feel less worry of losing them. Old cabinet doors can be painted and stenciled for custom quotes to make cool wall art signs. Jazz up your nursery with this handsome cabinet door nursery art. Full tutorial here pitterandglink
Easy to Make Rustic House Number Sign:
Reclaimed the wood planks and put them together to make gorgeous rustic signs , can be painted for gorgeous numbers to make enticing home number plates. Copy it to add a great curb appeal to your home and it hangs on the wall as a gorgeous numbered sign. Here is how to make it thehoneycomb
How to DIY Sisal Rope Basket:
Do also smart makeovers of the thrift store items to get them beautifully transformed in custom avatars, will be appreciated in your particular modern or rustic DIY home decor theme. Wrap the sisal rope all around thrift store basket and get a fetching rustic basket, it also comes with a unique label in front. Details here whitecottageho
Recycle Cabinet Into a Kitchen Island:
Missing out a cool and storage-friendly kitchen island then do build a gorgeous one using the old and recycled cabinets. Refurbish and repaint the old cabinet, finish with rolling feet and with a solid edged countertop. Install also a towel rack in sides and get a fully functional design of kitchen island at no-cost. Complete how-to guides here sawdust2stitches
DIY Painted Tin Can Planters:
Build lasting longer and outstanding planter out of recycled tin can, will be the affordable solution to bring greenery home. White and gold striped appeal will go super eye-catching and haivng this tin can planter on a coffee table top or on a shelf, will bring tons of grace. Full recycled projects here thecraftedsparrow
Jewelry Stand Made From Plastic Bottles:
Cut apart the flower shaped bottoms of the plastic bottles and then them onto a threaded rod as tiered levels, stop them in place using nuts and washes. Soon you will get a decent tiered organizers, will rock for jewelry storage. A recycled plastic bottle project that every jewelry wearer will love to do. How-to tutorial here epbot
DIY Recycled Tire Coffee Table:
Get praised for your sitting setups by adding this rope coffee table in the center. Make it with a recycled tire, plywood round, furniture feet and rope. Cover the bottom of the tire with plywood round, wrap rope all around the tire and next finish it up with the furniture feet. The wonderful DIY coffee table is ready to decorate your home. Complete how-to guides here persialou
Planter Out of Tire:
Spruce up your green spaces and patio paradise with this epic handmade beauty, a gorgeous recycled tire planter. Get the tired covered in accurate rope loops, cover the bottom with a plywood round or with a recycled spool wheel. Install a stylish trio of legs for giving it a unique standing style. Full tutorials here addicted2diy
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Creative Recycling Projects from Common Household Items
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United Nations figures show that the world produces 2.12 Billion TONS of waste every single year , and the figures are going up! Luckily, some creative recycling projects at home can help save the planet. If you’re interested in creative recycling projects you can do at home , then skip the intro and scroll straight down.
Not only that, but you’ll have a lot of fun doing these creative recycling projects – whether on your own or with your family! Unfortunately, it’s fair to say that, many people have lost sight of the traditional “make and make do” philosophy. Modern life is fast and everything feels disposable.
However, there are considerable benefits to slowing down and thinking of ways to reuse common household items ! Creative recycling is good for the environment, saves money, and can form the basis of an enjoyable and engaging hobby. Nowadays more and more people are taking this one step further, and turning their recycling ideas into money-making projects, with some even building businesses around upcycling items that would otherwise have been thrown away!
This article provides a host of ideas on how to make creative things from waste material at home . These ideas are a lot of fun , as well as being good for the environment.
Top 10 Reasons to Recycle
There are a host of good reasons for recycling; While the central reason that it’s great for the environment is, of course, perfectly valid, there are plenty of specific reasons too.
- It can be an extremely enjoyable way to spend some spare time, on your own or with your family.
- While modern landfill sites are now created more safely than they once were, it’s crazy to send materials to landfill unnecessarily.
- Recycling reduces global warming and prevents unnecessary greenhouse gasses reaching the atmosphere.
- Recycling (and up / downcycling) is good for wildlife; The damage done to ocean life by discarded plastic bottles , for example, is well documented.
- Recycling dramatically reduces energy use. For example, producing aluminum cans from “secondary production” uses 92% less energy than doing so from raw materials .
- New raw materials are generated from recycled products, providing a way to make new things without the further use of resources that may be finite.
- Reusing materials for new purposes can save a considerable amount of money. As this article shows, many useful items can be produced by repurposing items that would otherwise have been thrown away.
- When more people become environmentally aware, demand for recycled products increases. This creates a self-perpetuating circle of demand that’s good for the industry and for the planet.
- Water pollution is reduced when recycling increases, as producing goods from recycled materials doesn’t pollute as much as using virgin raw materials.
- With an average family in the western world producing a ton of waste each year , recycling is one activity where just one family (or one person) can make a genuine difference.
Whether you’re recycling by sending materials for industrial reuse or reusing items by trying out some of the recycling projects here, you’re contributing to a global effort to improve the environment for everybody, and for the future.
What Things Can Be Recycled?
If you’re looking to make something useful out of something recycled, you may be surprised by just how many items you can reuse creatively. Even a simple plastic bottle can be turned into a garden sprinkler , a bird feeder or a watering can!
So never assume the only possible destination for an item is the trash. There are creative recycling projects out there for dozens of everyday items, including (but by no way limited to!) the following:
- Glass bottles
- Plastic bottles
- Paper rolls (from kitchen towel and toilet paper)
Stale bread
- Vegetable peelings
- Plastic Pots
- Dryer sheets
- Coffee grounds
- Egg cartons
- Old and damaged tiles
- Bottle caps
- Mailing tubes
- CDs and DVDs
- Light bulbs
- Christmas trees
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it gives a good idea of just how many things have plenty of uses beyond their original purpose.
Non-Recyclable Items
Unfortunately, there are some non-recyclable items that have to go to the landfill if you can’t find a secondary use for them. One way to reduce the environmental impact of these items, in some cases, is to try to refrain from using them wherever possible, instead choosing items that can be recycled.
- Plastic wrapping
- Bubble wrap and packing “donuts”
- Items tainted by food
- Disposable nappies
- Laminated paper
- Garden waste
Upcycling is a way of recycling creatively, turning items that would otherwise be unused into functional and useful things. An example often seen is when people reuse wooden pallets and turn them into anything from outdoor seating areas to staircases .
Upcycling is also possible with far smaller items than pallets! Wine corks, for example, have myriad uses in upcycling projects, with creative people turning them into anything from kitchen backboards to bathmats and plant labels.
Upcycling can produce striking decorative items, or items that are merely practical, such as an upturned plastic bottle used to irrigate a plant pot while someone is away on holiday. Either way, the items get used again rather than being treated as waste.
Downcycling
Upcycling, as described above, is something we hear a lot about these days, with some people even building businesses around upcycled items . Downcycling is just as useful but involves stripping down items to component parts, usually with less of an inherent value than the original item.
Downcycling usually happens on an industrial scale. However, anyone looking how to make creative things from waste material at home will also find examples of downcycling that work as personal projects, such as using old clothes as dusters or linings for pet beds or turning old CDs and DVDs into drinks coasters.
Creative Recycling for Common Household Items
This section looks at some of the common household items everyone tends to have lying around all the time, and discusses some of the ways they can be reused creatively.
For each item there’s one main suggested project, along with a whole host of other possibilities.
Paper Rolls
Paper rolls from the middle of kitchen paper and toilet paper are something everyone has a constant stream of. While it may seem hard to think of many things to do with these, the abundance of them has caused many people to get really creative, and it turns out there are some really inspiring options!
There are literally hundreds of images on Pinterest showing some of the things people have managed to do with paper rolls.
Whether or not you’re particularly artistic, you should be able to find something to do with them that will keep plenty back from being discarded.
A Toy Garage
You’d struggle to find any parent who wouldn’t welcome an idea that help keep the house tidier, and this toy garage does just that with just a box and a pile of old paper rolls.
All you need to do is use a shoe box or something a bit larger, and fix in a series of used paper rolls in rows. Then, each roll can be used to contain an individual toy car or similar small toy. Not only is this a far tidier way of storing such items, putting the toys in place is a fun activity that even a young toddler may be persuaded to participate in.
More Paper Roll Recycling Ideas
Here are some more ways to recycle your paper rolls:
- Decorations, painted or colored in , for Christmas, Easter or Halloween
- Small gift boxes for jewelry or soaps
- Marble run toys for kids
- Organisers for pens , crayons or makeup
- Starter pots for seedlings
- Napkin rings
Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes are supposed to be replaced at least every three months, according to the recommendations of dentists and manufacturers, so they’re something you’re likely to end up with plenty of.
The most usual use for old toothbrushes is in household cleaning; Their bristles mean they are perfect for scrubbing surfaces and their size means they can get into places that are hard to reach. But there are plenty of other uses for old toothbrushes, including some that help with other upcycling projects.
A Toothbrush Bracelet
Making a bracelet out of an old toothbrush may not sound instantly appealing, but you cut off the bristles before doing so! Then, the use of boiling water should be sufficient for the plastic of the toothbrush to bend exactly as you require.
If you use a patterned toothbrush such as those popular with children, you can make an appealing and unique bracelet. And if your child has a character toothbrush featuring a superhero, it can become a superhero bracelet when it needs replacing!
More Toothbrush Recycling Ideas
Here are a few more ways to recycle your old toothbrushes:
- Paint brushes for children , or for flicking and spattering paint onto other creative projects
- Seed pollinator
- Sweetcorn brush – nothing’s better for removing the stringy silks from corn-on-the-cob than a toothbrush, so long as it’s clean
Stale bread may seem good for nothing but the bin, but there are actually plenty of uses for it. Many country’s cuisines include recipes that actually work better if the bread is slightly stale, and even if you can’t use it immediately, you can always freeze it.
Breadcrumbs
Fresh bread doesn’t make good breadcrumbs – the bread glues together and the crumbs get sticky. It’s far better to use stale bread for this, and it’s easy to turn the bread into crumbs – all it takes is a whizz in a food processor. If you don’t have access to a food processor, you can toast the bread in the oven and then bash it into crumbs with a rolling pin.
Breadcrumbs that you can’t use straight away will keep in the freezer for several months in a sealed food bag. The crumbs just need defrosting before use. These crumbs will be far better than shop bought, and cost nothing!
More Stale Bread Recycling Ideas
- Make summer pudding – a fruit pudding that works far better with stale bread
- Oven bake the stale bread to make crispbreads or bread sticks
- Make souffles or French toast – both work fine with stale bread
- Use the bread to feed birds or other animals
While stale bread is fine to use, moldy bread really isn’t. Therefore, be sure to check it’s not deteriorated too much before use.
Plastic Bottle Recycling
Plastic bottles are causing a serious environmental problem at the moment, and there’s lots of pressure to reduce the use of them. Thankfully there are multitudes of things you can do with them to keep them out of your household waste.
Jet Pack Costume
There are dozens of way more practical ways to upcycle plastic bottles, but the jet pack costume is sure to be irresistible to anyone with children and is really easy to make!
A cardboard backboard is all that’s needed to form the center of the costume. Straps are attached to one side, and two downward-facing large plastic bottles attached to the other. With orange tissue paper for flames and a little paint, these are easy to build and customize – and quick enough to make to build several for a party.
More Plastic Bottle Recycling Ideas
Here are some more plastic bottle recycling projects you can try at home:
- Garden sprinklers
- Mailing tubes – send sweets, crayons or papers in the mail
- Bird feeders
- Organisers for pens or makeup
- Scoops and trowels
- Piggy banks
- Garden Pots
Some Additional Creative Recycling Ideas
Here is a selection of ideas of ways to upcycle or downcycle some other items:
- Turn wine bottles into sparkly garden lights by dropping in inexpensive battery powered fairy lights
- Make bags out of scraps of carpet
- Use all kinds of containers and boxes to organise children’s toys
- Turn old buttons into bold earrings
- Use old dryer sheets as air fresheners for cupboards and closets
- Use wine corks as kindling for starting fires and barbecues
- Make puppet toys from old (clean!) socks
- Use egg boxes as propagators for seedlings
- Make oven-baked vegetable chips from peelings
- Use old coffee grounds to repel garden pests
Creative Recycling Projects Recap
This article gives a mere sneak preview of just how much can be done with the household items so many people throw away.
There are thousands more creative ideas out there. As mentioned above, some people go on to build businesses around the incredible things they make from what would otherwise be waste items.
It is great for the environment to do something creative with these items. Also, it potentially saves money when you can build something that you otherwise would have paid for – in turn creating more clutter and more waste.
Many of these projects are so simple that they don’t even require much creative skill.
So, next time you’re about to pitch something into the trash, have a good think about how you could repurpose it. Hopefully, you’ll now come up with plenty of ideas.
If you have any other ideas, let us know in the comments, or even send us photos of the work you have done!
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30 Recycled Crafts for Kids That Are Easy and Fun
Tin can planters and water bottle fishes are only a few unique ideas on our list.
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Our DIY ideas range from egg carton flowers and cork bottle bugs to water bottle fishes and bird feeders made of toilet paper rolls, which are perfect for inspiring your child's creativity and teaching them about climate change (and how to make a positive impact on our environment ). And don't worry about blowing your budget on craft supplies. The materials needed are versatile, with glass, plastic and cardboard being a few pieces you can purchase for less or find around the house (great for showing your little ones how important it is to make responsible choices about products they buy daily). So if you're looking for something fun to do on April 22 with your kids, choose one (or even two) of these crafts from our list. Plus, be sure to check out our best Earth Day quotes for eco-friendly inspiration.
Accordion Paper Flowers
These paper flowers are so colorful and fun to make. Download these templates before following the steps below to make them (in multiple, sizes, shapes and colors).
- Cut out 4 pieces of yellow or white paper (depending on what color daffodil you would like) using the first template.
- Fold the paper in half both vertically and horizontally and open again. Fold the bottom up about ¼" and crease it down.
- Flip the paper over and fold all the way to the top until you create an accordion.
- Fold the accordion-folded paper in half and attach the two middle pieces together with double-sided tape.
- Repeat steps 2-4 with the remaining 3 pieces of paper.
- Connect all 4 together with a strip of double stick tape to create a flower shape.
- Cut out a rectangle of orange paper about 2" x 1.5" and cut little points on one of the long edges.
- Roll the rectangle loosely to make a tube shape and connect with a small piece of double-sided tape, folding the bottom edge down to create a flat bottom.
- Glue the little cup you made into the center of the flower to finish your daffodil.
Window Frame Organizer
Turn a dumpster-bound window frame into an entryway organizer. Have your kids help you paint the frame in their preferred color before DIYing unique ways to make it functional, including adding small hooks for keys and compact accessories.
Egg Carton Flowers
These colorful flowers will last longer than real ones — and only a few materials are required (egg cartons included).
Get the tutorial »
Paper Flowers
Your little ones will have so much fun making paper flowers to spruce up their room. To make, have them fold dyed cupcake liners in half and cut out petal and fringe shapes. Then fold a piece of floral wire in half and twist around the faux flower stamen. Poke the wire through the center of three to four paper liners. Finish it off by wrapping floral tape around the base of the liners and bringing it all the way down the stem.
Recycled Robot
Let your kids search through the recycling pile for materials to make their own robots. Cardboard, tissue paper rolls, canisters and containers can all be added to a pile so they can pick their preferred robot parts.
Get the tutorial at My Mommy Style »
Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder
Spring is a beautiful time to go birdwatching. Bring the birds to your backyard with a DIY bird feeder.
Get the tutorial at Craftaholics Anonymous »
Tin Can Planter
After turning a regular tin can into a silly-faced planter, show your kids how to grow and care for their own succulents.
Get the tutorial at Tried and True Creative »
Bottle Cap Horse
Gather the stash of bottle caps you've been saving and invite your kids to DIY their version of a horse. You can also purchase caps if you don't have enough to complete this project.
Get the tutorial at Crafts by Amanda »
SHOP BOTTLE CAPS
Wine Cork Giraffes
If the zoo is your child's favorite place, bring the animals right to them! Your little one can make their very own mini and tall giraffes with an assortment of wine corks.
Get the tutorial at Craft Project Ideas »
Earth-Shaped Crayons
These unique earth-shaped crayons can be made using a round silicone mould or a metal muffin tin. Along with being a fun Earth Day craft, they also make cute gifts.
Get the tutorial at Emma Owl »
SHOP SILICONE MOLDS
Juice Jug Rocket
Believe it or not, this rocket was made with a finished bottle of apple juice. You can use any bottles of juice, water or soda in the house and give kids the freedom to transform them into rockets.
Get the tutorial at No Time for Flashcards »
Mini Lid Banjos
These mini banjos can be made in less than 10 minutes. Although their sound is on the soft side, they're still cute crafts for kids to try.
Get the tutorial at The Craft Train »
Water Bottle Flowers
Instead of discarding your pack of water bottles when they're finished, your kids can turn them into colorful flowers using pom poms, construction paper and straws.
Get the tutorial at Kid Friendly Things To Do »
SHOP POM POMS
DIY Terrarium
Develop your child's green thumb early on with this DIY terrarium made from paper and a plastic cup.
Tin Can Wind Chimes
You and your kids can make wind chimes using tin cans and washers. Try different sizes of washers and tin cans to experiment with a variety of sounds.
Get the tutorial at Hands on as We Grow »
Cork Love Bugs
Show the Earth your appreciation with these adorable cork love bugs. From coloring the corks to glueing on the googly-eyes, your kids will enjoy every step of this craft.
Banana Leaf Wreath
As warmer weather approaches, this wreath makes a cute decoration for the home. You can swap out the green color of the crepe paper for your kids' favorites.
Get the tutorial at Persia Lou »
SHOP CREPE PAPER
Yogurt Cup Animals
After they clean out their yogurt cups, they can easily be turned into their favorite zoo animals — from bears and elephants to monkeys and giraffes.
Water Bottle Fish
Teach your kids all about ocean life by teaching them how to make their own little fishies with simple water bottles. Use both standard size and smaller bottles to mix things up.
Get the tutorial at Meaningful Mama »
Tissue Box Succulent Planter
Save your tissue boxes so your kids can turn them into planters. Wrapping twine around the box makes a unique design, while keeping it sturdy enough to hold their succulents.
Get the tutorial at See Vanessa Craft »
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping , where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine . She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions , in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community , a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.
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14 Creative Crafts Made from Recycled Household Items
Whether you use up what you've got or make something out of a found treasure, these recycled craft ideas will cost you next to nothing. Whip up a handmade cake stand or try one of our other crafts from recycled materials. These easy recycled crafts are fun and easy for the whole family!
Seashell Rainbows
Recycle cardboard from boxes or leftover food containers to create these darling rainbows. To make this recycled craft for kids, cut an arch shape from the cardboard. Paint colorful stripes on the arch with acrylic crafts paint. Once the paint is dry, hot-glue flat shells ($7, Michaels ) to the rainbow.
Visible Mending
Don't toss that worn-out jean jacket or tattered linens. Give them new life with visible mending —all it takes is a few simple embroidery stitches and scraps of colorful fabric.
Fabric Scrap Balls
An easy craft to make, these fabric-wrapped balls use up scraps from your stash and can be displayed in a pretty bowl. Cut strips from coordinating fabrics and use glue to adhere them to foam balls. Select a variety of fabric patterns and use both small and large balls for extra interest.
Desk Accessories Holder
Jazz up an old tin can to sit pretty on a desk. Remove labels and clean can. Cut textured decorative paper to the height and width of the can. Wrap the paper piece around the can and adhere it with decoupage medium. Cut a length of coordinating ribbon. Wrap it around the can and tie.
Bottle Cap Magnets
Bring the recycled-chic look to your kitchen with bottle-cap magnets. Find vintage caps at flea markets or thrift shops and hot-glue a small magnet, available at crafts stores, inside.
Business Card Holder
Here's a fresh idea for upcycling simple garden rocks. Use acrylic crafts paint to create colorful designs. Once dry, use the painted rocks as garden markers or leave them outside to help spread joy as people walk by.
Buy It: 16 Color Matte Acrylic Paint Value Pack , ($12, Michaels )
Mod Mosaic Table
Give a worn tabletop new life by covering it with colorful pieces of glass, stone, or tile. Make your own mosaic designs in just three simple steps . We found it was easiest to create the design on a table with a tray top like this Gladom Tray Table , ($25, Ikea ).
Patterned-Paper Book Covers
Use your leftover scraps of fabric to craft these eco-friendly beeswax wraps . Each wrap will last for up to one year and replaces single-use plastics. To clean them, simply wipe them down with warm, soapy water.
Metallic Vase
Give a simple vase new life with a handful of plastic spoons! Simply cut the bottoms off the spoons and give them a quick coat of metallic spray paint. Once dry, glue the spoons to the vase and display your DIY recycled craft.
Newspaper Holder
Whip up a chic cake stand using recycled cardboard and toilet paper tubes. That's right! We'll show you how to assemble the stand and give it a makeover with a quick coat of paint. Use an edge punch to add the final trim.
Buy It: Daisy Border Punch ($17, Joann )
Recycled Jewlery Holder
This easy craft idea will have you saving those cardboard paper towel tubes. Transform them into a DIY jewelry holder with a few pieces of felt and colorful ribbon. Customize your holder with holes to hold earrings or use it to display necklaces and bracelets.
DIY Evelope Pillow
Sew an envelope pillow cover from a favorite sweatshirt, college t-shirt, or sports jersey. This handmade pillow cover requires just a few simple sewing skills. Add a patterned backing to the pillow to fit your decor.
Fabric Storage Bins
Make a set of square fabric bins by repurposing pieces of fabric or leftover fat quarters. Use our free template to create your own storage containers. Stiff interfacing helps give the bins stability—use them to hold bottles on your bathroom vanity or to corral jewelry or scrunchies.
Paint Cans Turned Organizer
Create this cool organizer to store your art and craft supplies. Cover quart paint cans with scrapbooking, wallpaper, or wrapping paper scraps. Use double-stick tape or spray adhesive to secure the paper to the cans. To make a display, stack the cans on their sides and glue them together. Use the same idea with gallon cans to store larger items.
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150+ DIY Recycling Projects Perfect for Earth Day
Last Updated on May 24, 2020 by April
Going to the local craft store can be pretty expensive for things you thought should cost less than a buck. Enjoy these recycling projects; I know I will!
Table of Contents
Why Make a DIY Recycled Project?
- Create a unique piece of home decor that most people won’t have
- Make a copycat of one of your favorite store brands and save hundreds or thousands
- Cut down on waste
- Bragging rights to home guests about how you made your own home decor
- The satisfaction of completing a home improvement project
Best DIY Recycling Projects
Recycling projects are one of the best ways to put old stuff to good use. If you don’t feel like selling or donating the stuff you’ve accumulated in your home, there are so many beautiful crafts you can create and show off to your family and friends. The best part is, you save a ton of money! If you’re ready to learn how to reuse plastic containers and create art from garbage, read on.
Mosaic Tile Birdbath
As a kid, I’ve always been in awe with how sparkly and wonderful the back of DVDs are. With digital downloads becoming more and more popular though, DVDs are sort of obsolete at this point. Instead of throwing away your old DVDs, try making something gorgeous like this mosaic tile birdbath out of it!
Hanging Light Bulb Planter
At first glance, light bulbs are maybe a boring concept, but once they’ve burned out there are plenty of cool things you can do with them. Why not take something initially intended for electronics and technology and use it for nature?
25 Uses for K-Cups
There are many practical uses for K-Cups that you’ve probably never thought of before. From playing card holders, kids crafts, and gardening seed starts, you’ll never run out of things to do. Get the details from Happy Hooligans .
50+ Ways to Re-Use Baby Food Jars
If you’ve recently had a baby, you’re likely wondering what you should do with all of the leftover baby food jars. Gather up all the jars you’ve left lying around and try one of these easy recycling projects from Happy Hooligans .
30+ Toilet Paper Crafts
Instead of throwing your used cardboard rolls into the bathroom trash can, try one of these toilet paper roll crafts. Happy Hooligans will show you how to make Christmas, Halloween, and even Easter crafts for kids with your upcycled rolls.
20 Brick Recycling Projects
Bricks are super fun; you can use them in your house, on your house, for your garden. You are bound to find something you are interested in trying out in this list of 20 brick DIYs!
Old Drawers
Now this is something a lot of people can use when they plan on moving homes. If you want to get new furniture but want to get more use of the old stuff you invested so much money into, try creating something new out of it!
Bird Feeder
While ketchup bottles aren’t the most expensive items in the world, and most people have no problem just tossing them, it is still made out of plastic. Instead of just throwing the plastic away, why not feed some cute birds?
These lamps are seriously cute! This DIY project shows just one of the many creative water bottle uses when creating recycled home decor.
The Garden Glove
Trampolines are expensive so if you don’t want to toss out your trampoline once you kids have grown up, just turn it into a stunning hanging bed!
Wine Bottle
I am seriously in love with the torch idea here! If you want to see tons of wine bottle recycle DIY ideas, check this site out!
How to Upcycle Milk Jugs
You will be surprised by the many ways you can recycle milk jugs. These milk jugs upcycling projects will show you how to create a DIY watering can, make a DIY bird feeder, and even a DIY plant pot. Let Cool DIY Ideas show you how it’s done.
Tin Can Recycling Projects
Tin cans are one of the most common household items that can be repurposed. Let Cool DIY Ideas teach you 10 recycling projects using tin cans. These tin can crafts are easy to make and the perfect Earth Day crafts.
Water Bottle Wind Spirals
More Recycling Projects to Try Out
How to Flatten Wine Bottles from Hunker
Plastic Bottle Planters from Ideas2Live4
Magazine Silhouettes from Supply Me
Hair Accessory Holder from DIY Inspired
Pill Bottle Fire Starter from Mom With a Prep
DIY Toothbrush Holder from Domesblissity
Mini First Aid Kit from One Good Thing by Jillee
Candy Wrapper Hair Bows from Doodle Craft
Sock Snowman Craft from Easy Peasy and Fun
Wine Bottle Planter from HomeTalk
Being the type of person who doesn’t like to spend a whole lot of money on my hobbies, these DIYs are a blessing to know about! Which one is your favorite?
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17 comments.
So nice things .I loved all
Yes! : ) These ideas are so awesome and I can’t wait to try them out!
Lovely ideas – I will definitely try the one with the bottle and the ketchup bottle.
Hi Brooke! I love how accessible that hack is since TONS of people have ketchup bottle already. Take care, April
Yes! These bloggers are so talented. : )
Thank you so much. I love it. Good idea. ?
No problem! Take care.<3
Could you share step by step directions for the birdbath made from cds? I’m interested in doing it with children, what did you use as the surface to put the cds on? Thanks for any tips you can offer!
I hope your day is going beautifully. : ) All the information for the bird bath can be found here: https://www.meandmydiy.com/2013/05/mosaic-tile-birdbath-using-recycled-dvds.html
Good luck and take care!
How do I get to the website that show me how to make the projects
All you have to do is find the link under the photo of the project you’d like to try. : )
Hope this helps!
I loved them all your very clever I cant wait to try out all of these crafts…
oh and by the way if you have any more websites I can use for crafts that would be great
I am so happy you liked these!
If you have wine corks, I recommend these wine corks crafts. Here are some more recycled DIYs if you’re looking for more of those.
Hi!! First of all, THANKS a bunch for the can ideas!! I do NOT like to add to the junk in our landfills, oceans etc!( basically everywhere…!) I want to know, IF you or anyone knows of some good uses for GOBS of plastic grocery bags? If so please email me at lisa.bowman1955@ gmail.com. I know that these bags are very dangerous for sea animals, but recycle doesn’t take them…..!! Thanks for ANY suggestions!
They can get crocheted into sleeping mats for homeless.
How do you do this.
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50 Simple Recycling Project Ideas: Sustainable Living Starts Here
Welcome to the ultimate playground of “Simple Recycling Project Ideas” – where we’re turning trash into triumphs, and your discarded goodies are about to get a seriously stylish makeover! Picture this as your backstage pass to a recycling fiesta, where mundane items get a VIP treatment and emerge as the rockstars of sustainability.
We’re not just talking about separating your plastics from paper; oh no, we’re on a mission to make recycling downright dazzling. Those forgotten jars in your pantry? Get ready to witness their Cinderella moment as they transform into the trendiest organizers on the block. And don’t even get us started on those old clothes – they’re about to strut their stuff on the fashion catwalk after a little DIY magic.
So, buckle up for a ride where recycling meets creativity, and your everyday discards become the stars of the show. Grab your recycling spirit and let’s embark on a journey of eco-friendly crafting that’s so engaging, it’ll have you high-fiving Mother Earth.
Table of Contents
Why Recycling Matters ?
Hey superstar, let’s dive into why recycling is basically the rockstar of the green movement. Buckle up for the fun ride:
- Resource Remix: Earth’s resources are like the coolest playlist, but it’s not on repeat. Recycling is the DJ that keeps the jams going, remixing materials for a sustainable beat.
- Pollution Party Pooper: Imagine recycling as the ultimate party guest – it swoops in, grabs the trash, and leaves the place cleaner than it found it. No mess, no fuss.
- Energy Saver Champ: Recycling is the energy-efficient superhero in the room. It’s like upgrading from an energy-draining gadget to the latest, low-energy version. Go, planet-saving mode!
- Landfill Limbo Dance: Landfills are so last season – crowded and not chic. Recycling steps in, saving materials from the landfill limbo, and keeping the party alive elsewhere.
- Climate Change Crusader: Recycling is our climate change warrior. It battles those pesky greenhouse gases and keeps our atmosphere cool, literally.
- Habitat Defender: Recycling is like the superhero cape for wildlife. It saves habitats from destruction, ensuring that our animal buddies have cozy homes.
- Eco-Economics Maestro: Recycling isn’t just a green move; it’s a money magician. It creates jobs, boosts the economy, and makes saving the planet the trendiest gig in town.
- Loop of Everlasting Coolness: Recycling is the party that never stops. It’s the loop of everlasting coolness, turning old stuff into fresh, trendy treasures.
- Green Mindset Guru: Recycling is the mindset guru we all need. It’s like the yoga class for your brain, making you see the world in a seriously eco-friendly light.
- Legacy Builder Extraordinaire: Recycling isn’t just a task; it’s your chance to be a legend. It’s like leaving behind a legacy of green goodness for generations to come.
So, recycling isn’t just separating trash; it’s your ticket to the coolest show in town. Every little bit counts, and each recycled item is like a high-five to our amazing planet.
Simple Recycling Project Ideas
Check out simple recycling project ideas:-
Paper and Cardboard:
- DIY Paper Beads: Roll up strips of colorful paper or magazine pages to create unique beads for jewelry.
- Cardboard Box Organizer: Turn old cardboard boxes into stylish organizers for your desk or shelves.
- Newspaper Pots for Plants: Fold old newspapers into pots for seedlings. Once the plants are ready, you can plant the entire pot in the soil.
- Paper Mache Creations: Get messy and creative with paper mache to craft anything from masks to decorative bowls.
- Homemade Greeting Cards: Use old cards, magazines, or colored paper to create unique handmade greeting cards.
- Magazine Collage Art: Cut out interesting pictures and phrases from magazines to create vibrant collages.
- Upcycled Book Page Art: Turn old book pages into art by drawing, painting, or printing images onto them.
- Origami Creations: Learn the art of origami and create various animals, flowers, or geometric shapes from paper.
- Paper Bag Book Covers: Use paper bags to create unique and customizable covers for your books.
- Recycled Paper Stationery: Make your own eco-friendly stationery by recycling paper scraps into notepads, envelopes, and more.
Plastic Bottles and Containers:
- Upcycled Planters: Cut plastic bottles in half, decorate them, and use them as planters for small herbs or flowers.
- DIY Bird Feeder: Turn a plastic bottle into a bird feeder by cutting out feeding holes and adding perches.
- Plastic Bottle Garden Edging: Cut bottles into strips and use them as colorful edging for your garden beds.
- DIY Sprinkler: Transform a plastic bottle into a garden sprinkler by poking holes in it and attaching it to a hose.
- Upcycled Plastic Jewelry: Cut and shape colorful plastic bottles into unique jewelry pieces like earrings or bracelets.
- Plastic Spoon Mirror Frame: Create a decorative mirror frame by arranging and gluing plastic spoons around its edges.
- Soda Bottle Terrariums: Make mini terrariums using soda bottles, soil, and small plants to create a tiny ecosystem.
- Plastic Bottle Bubble Blower: Craft a bubble blower by cutting the bottom of a plastic bottle and dipping it in soapy water.
- DIY Plastic Bottle Chandelier: Create an artsy chandelier by hanging and arranging plastic bottles with LED lights inside.
- Plastic Container Organizers: Cut and stack plastic containers to make organizers for small items like craft supplies or office materials.
Glass Jars and Bottles:
- DIY Candle Holders: Paint or decorate glass jars to make beautiful candle holders.
- Herb Garden in Jars: Plant herbs in small glass jars and line them up on your windowsill.
- Glass Bottle Vases: Remove labels from glass bottles and use them as vases for fresh or dried flowers.
- DIY Terrarium: Create a mini ecosystem using a glass jar, stones, soil, and small plants.
- Glass Jar Lanterns: Add a handle to glass jars to make charming lanterns for outdoor evenings.
- Mason Jar Soap Dispenser: Transform a mason jar into a stylish soap dispenser for your bathroom or kitchen.
- Glass Bottle Candle Centerpiece: Turn glass bottles into a stunning centerpiece by placing candles inside them.
- Jewelry Organizer with Jars: Attach jars to a wooden board to create a practical and decorative jewelry organizer.
- DIY Glass Jar Snow Globes: Craft festive snow globes using small glass jars, water, glitter, and mini figurines.
- Glass Bottle Wind Chimes: Create melodious wind chimes by hanging glass bottles of different sizes with varying levels of water.
Textiles and Clothing:
- T-shirt Tote Bags: Transform old t-shirts into reusable tote bags with a few simple cuts and knots.
- Upcycled Denim Projects: Use old denim jeans to create items like denim coasters, pot holders, or even a denim rug.
- Fabric Scrap Garland: String together colorful fabric scraps to make a festive garland for special occasions.
- DIY Rag Rug: Cut old textiles into strips and weave or crochet them into a cozy rag rug.
- Repurposed Sweater Pillows: Turn old sweaters into stylish throw pillows for your home.
- Fabric Scrap Headbands: Create fashionable headbands using colorful fabric scraps and elastic bands.
- Patchwork Quilts: Sew together fabric scraps to make a beautiful and eclectic patchwork quilt.
- Upcycled Sock Puppets: Give mismatched socks a new life by turning them into adorable puppets.
- Denim Pocket Organizers: Cut out pockets from old jeans and sew them together to make hanging organizers.
- DIY Cloth Napkins: Use old sheets or fabric scraps to sew your own cloth napkins for a sustainable dining experience.
Metal Cans and Containers:
- Tin Can Planters: Paint and decorate tin cans to use as planters for herbs or small flowers.
- DIY Utensil Holder: Remove labels from metal cans and use them to organize kitchen utensils or office supplies.
- Metal Can Lanterns: Create lanterns by puncturing patterns in metal cans and placing candles inside.
- Upcycled Tin Can Wind Chimes: Attach tin cans of various sizes to create a charming wind chime for your garden.
- Tin Can Desk Organizer: Stack and glue tin cans together to make a practical and unique desk organizer.
- Metal Can Stilts for Kids: Turn large metal cans into stilts by attaching strings for handles – a fun outdoor activity.
- Tin Can Herb Garden: Paint and repurpose tin cans as planters for a compact and stylish herb garden.
- Metal Can Pencil Holders: Decorate and organize your workspace by repurposing metal cans into pencil holders.
- DIY Tin Can Drum Set: Turn various-sized tin cans into a makeshift drum set for a musical DIY project.
- Metal Can Wall Art: Create a unique piece of wall art by arranging painted metal cans into an eye-catching pattern.
These projects offer a mix of creativity and sustainability, turning everyday items into functional and beautiful creations. Enjoy your crafting!
What is an example of a recycling project?
Let’s have a close look at an example of a recycling project:-
Ready for a Green Thumb Expedition? Let’s Create a Plastic Bottle Herb Haven!
- Gather Your Troops: Grab those empty plastic bottles—preferably the ones that once housed your favorite thirst-quenchers. We’re turning them into herb-holding superheroes!
- Operation Greenhouse: First, prep your bottles by giving them a good wash. No labels allowed—these bottles are getting a green makeover!
- Botanical Surgery: Time to get crafty! With scissors or a craft knife in hand, delicately slice those bottles in half. Now you’ve got pots and domes, our dynamic herb duo.
- Drill, Baby, Drill: Let’s ensure our herb pals don’t drown. Add a few drainage holes to the bottom half of each bottle. It’s like giving them a little breathing room.
- Herb Real Estate: Mark out where each herb will put down its roots. Create cozy sections in the bottom half of the bottle, ready to host your soon-to-be garden celebrities.
- Planting Extravaganza: Now, the star-studded moment! Fill those sections with potting soil and invite your chosen herb seeds or tiny plants to the green party.
- Dome Deployment: Don’t forget the protective dome! Pop the top half of the bottle over your newly planted herb haven. It’s like putting up a VIP canopy for your green darlings.
- Watering Ritual: Show your herbs some love with a gentle watering. The dome acts as their personal raincloud, ensuring they stay hydrated and happy.
- Sunny Soiree: Find a sunny spot for your plastic bottle herb gardens. These herbs are sun worshippers, and they thrive when basking in sunlight.
- Tender Loving Care: Keep an eye on your green buddies. Remove the domes as they grow, giving them more space to stretch their herbal legs.
- Harvest Hoopla: The grand finale! Once your herbs are all grown up, it’s time to host a harvest party. Snip, chop, and sprinkle your homegrown herbs into your favorite dishes.
And there you have it—a Plastic Bottle Herb Garden, where recycling meets gardening, and every snip is a flavor-packed victory! Ready to embark on this eco-friendly, herb-infused journey? Let the gardening games begin!
How do you make a school recycling project?
Here’s your ultimate guide to crafting a school recycling project that’s as fun as it is impactful:
- Assemble the Green Team: Gather a squad of eco-warriors! Students, teachers, and anyone with a passion for the planet—this is your Green Team. Ready for action?
- Dive into the Waste World: Time for a Waste Expedition! Conduct a Waste Audit, aka detective work on our trash. Get your gloves on and see what treasures (recyclables!) are hiding in there.
- Spot the Super Recyclables: Identify your superheroes—plastic, paper, aluminum—they’re your recyclable champions. Now, let’s give them the spotlight!
- Set Epic Recycling Goals: Picture this: Epic Goals on a big green banner! Reduce waste, boost recycling rates—what’s your school’s recycling quest? Time to set those goals!
- Recycling Stations: Introduce Recycling Stations! Bins labeled with superpowers—Paper Saver, Plastic Hero, Aluminum Avenger. Make recycling a superhero experience!
- Earth-saving Edu-tainment: It’s showtime! Educate with flair—pop-up quizzes, catchy jingles, and maybe a Recycling Hero mascot . Who said learning can’t be a blast?
- Call in the Local Heroes: Reach out to local eco-warriors—recycling centers, businesses, green heroes in your community. They might join your mission or share their wisdom!
- Collect-A-Palooza: Time to collect recyclables! Launch a regular Collect-A-Palooza. Make it exciting—what’s the most epic recyclable haul this week?
- Check Progress & High-Five: Keep tabs on your recycling superhero stats. Are you reducing waste? High-five everyone when you hit milestones!
- Celebrate in Green Style: Put on your green capes! Celebrate victories—throw a Green Gala, create eco-art, or have a Recyclable Fashion Show. Who said saving the planet can’t be glamorous?
- Go Beyond the School Walls: Take the mission to the streets! Involve the community—local businesses, families, everyone can be part of your recycling superhero league.
- Spy on the Collection Scene: Have a recycling collection system that rivals a secret agent’s operation. Regular pickups, smooth logistics—nothing gets past your eco-spy team!
- Keep the Party Going: Sustainable living is an ongoing fiesta! Integrate recycling into the school culture, make it as natural as breathing. The planet-saving party never ends!
- Share Tales of Triumph: Shout your victories from the rooftops! Share stories on social media, school newsletters, or maybe even a recycling-themed school play. Let everyone know how your school became the recycling superhero headquarters!
- Sustainability Superheroes: Aim for a legacy! Turn your school into a Sustainability Superhero Academy. Let every student leave with a cape and a sense of responsibility for the planet.
And there you have it—your School Recycling Adventure! Ready to make recycling the coolest quest in the school? Let’s do this!
What are the 5 examples of recycle things?
Check out the 5 examples of recyle things:-
- Aluminum Cans – The Rockstars of Recycling: Picture this: your empty soda or energy drink can strutting its stuff on a recycling stage. These aluminum superstars are ready for a smelting encore, transforming into shiny new cans or even parts of a bicycle. Encore, please!
- Paper – The Storyteller’s Comeback: Ever wonder what happens to your old newspapers and cardboard? They get a second life! They embark on an epic journey, breaking down and rising again as fresh paper products. It’s like a rebirth for your favorite bedtime stories and Amazon deliveries.
- Glass Bottles and Jars – The Eternal Chameleons: Meet the shape-shifting heroes of recycling – glass bottles and jars. They’re like magical chameleons, taking on new forms every time they’re melted down. From pasta sauce jars to fancy beverage bottles, they’re ready for their glassy transformation.
- Plastic Bottles – The Transformers of Recycling: Plastic bottles are like the Autobots of the recycling world. They may start as water or soda containers, but with the right process, they can morph into new plastic treasures – maybe even a snazzy backpack or colorful playground equipment.
- Steel Cans – The Tough Guys of Recycling: Steel cans mean business! Picture your used soup or bean can flexing its recycling muscles. After a little melting magic, it’s back in action, joining the league of sturdy steel items, like bicycles, car parts, or maybe even part of a construction project. That’s one tough can!
Recycling isn’t just a chore; it’s a superhero saga for your everyday items. They get to reinvent themselves and keep the cycle of sustainability spinning. So, next time you toss that can or newspaper into the recycling bin, imagine the standing ovation awaiting them in the recycling center.
So, rounding up our recycling hangout – these easy projects? They’re like the cool side of saving the planet. It’s us telling Mother Earth, “Hey, we’re in this together, turning old stuff into something kinda awesome!”
Imagine flipping an old tee into a tote bag, or turning glass jars into these fancy candle holders. And who knew cardboard boxes could become storage wizards? It’s not just being eco-warriors; it’s like hosting a crafty party with the planet.
Picture it like a laid-back convo with Earth, saying, “You’ve got potential, and we’re here to bring it out!” It’s a colorful, upcycling dance with stuff that’s ready for a second act.
These projects? It’s like a personal fist bump to the planet, saying, “I got you!” Finding joy in crafting, getting a bit messy, and feeling that sweet vibe of creating something rad.
So, grab those recyclables, call up your pals, and let’s dive into this recycling party! Turn trash into treasures, groove to the beat of sustainability, and let the crafting good times roll. Happy crafting, eco buddies!
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are commonly used in recycled paper crafts.
Recycled paper crafts often use old newspapers, magazines, and cardboard as primary materials.
How can I debunk recycling myths in my community?
Host informative sessions, create engaging infographics, and leverage social media to dispel common recycling myths. Education is key to fostering a recycling-friendly mindset.
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14 Recycled Crafts That Will Help You Go Zero-Waste
Alexandra is a former assistant digital editor for MarthaStewart.com.
Give new life to outgrown clothing, fabric scraps, and other materials lying around the house with our eco-friendly craft ideas.
When it comes to craft projects, we like to think that nothing is off-limits—including scraps. From orphan buttons and leftover yarn to empty jars and swatches of fabric, there are plenty of ways to recycle odds and ends around the house and turn them into brand-new items. Not only do these zero-waste crafts help clear up the clutter in your junk drawer and craft bins, but they also help keep it from accumulating in landfills. Even better, many of these projects make great heartfelt gifts or eye-catching present embellishments, so you can't save money instead of shelling out to buy new ones. Talk about a win-win-win!
Of course, recycling certain materials like paper and empty jars is certainly one way to be a bit more eco-friendly. However, finding a way to reuse these items by giving them a second (or even third) life takes your sustainability to the next level. If you need inspiration for crafting with paper, we have fun and simple ideas from paper flowers and hand-sewn books to lanterns and wall art. We've even got enough ideas to help inspire little ones to craft . And for those empty glass jars ? Try turning them into beautiful containers for your pantry, planters for windowsill herbs, or sweet little containers for homemade gift-worthy treats like granola or jam.
However you decide to use your recycled materials, remember that when it comes to unleashing your creativity by recycling, reusing, and repurposing can be some of your handiest crafting tools—and we're willing to bet that Mother Nature would agree.
Frame Display
Here's an idea for repurposing old glassless frames: turn them into an artistic display. With a few coats of paint, you can instantly transform a mixed assortment of frame sizes and styles into one cohesive set.
Button Cards
As for those orphan buttons in your sewing collection, why not stitch them on a card for a charming three-dimensional embellishment? Get inspired with our templates, or get creative with your own ideas.
Patchwork Throw
Now here's a sewing project we can get behind: transform fabric cast-offs and sewing project remnants into a cozy patchwork blanket. We opted for assorted menswear fabrics in wool, flannel, and corduroy, but feel free to use whatever similarly-weighted fabrics you have on hand.
Homemade Marble Crayons
Did you know that you can melt down broken crayons into a brand new set? With this easy project, they bake in the oven and become a marvelous marbleized collection of colors! Grown-ups can handle the cutting, while kids assist with sorting the colors and filling the molds.
Teacup Lights
Try this creative trick for using up the leftover wax in your nearly-finished candles: melt them down into a new set of charming teacup lights. Plus, it's the perfect way to put your antique cup collection to use.
Wallpaper Cards
Have a surplus amount of wallpaper left post-renovating? Craft the swatches into cute stationery and one-of-a-kind notecards that anyone would be delighted to receive.
Cork Stamps
Perfect for decorating wrapping paper and cards or for keeping kids busy, these cork stamps are a great way to repurpose the little bottle stoppers.
Give leftover yarn a second life as a pair (or dozens) of peppy pom-poms . This project can be done in a pinch and can use any kind of yarn. Plus, the pom-poms made adorable adornments for a pair of sneakers or as soft little critters . For every size and shape of pom-pom, there are endless ideas to use them .
Fabric Flowers
With the help of our template and a few basic sewing supplies, you can turn fabric scraps into pretty pansies for brooches, pins, gift-toppers, or just because.
Naturally-Dyed Eggs
Those kitchen scraps? Before you cast them to the composting bin, boil them in a dye bath to achieve richly colored, beautiful eggs. In fact, you can use natural dyes to color all kinds of items: fabric, wooden beads, and other odds and ends.
Dip-Dyed Candles
Brighten a set of ordinary pillar candles with this secret coloring ingredient: crayon shavings! A slow-cooker or double broiler helps to melt beeswax beads so that you can dip and dye to your heart's content.
Bangle Bracelets
Here's a great (kid-friendly) way to repurpose leftover or discarded fabric, either from old printed sheets to a favorite shirt that shrunk in the wash: wrap fabric strips around a wooden bangle for some eco-friendly fashion accessories.
With just three materials and four simple steps, you can transform a spool of thread into a sweet tassel. Craft a handful to accent everything from pillows and curtains to a purse handbag or zipper pull.
Sewing Kit in a Jar
There are so many ways to repurpose old jars , including this handy portable sewing kit. Say goodbye to lost pins, spools, and thimbles.
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