Create Craft
14 Creative Crafts Made from Recycled Household Items.
Certainly! There are countless creative crafts you can make from recycled household items. Not only do these projects help reduce waste, but they also provide an opportunity for artistic expression. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:
1. Tin Can Planters:
• Take empty tin cans, clean them thoroughly, and remove any sharp edges.
• Paint the cans with vibrant colors or decorate them with decoupage.
• Fill them with soil and plant your favorite herbs, succulents, or small flowers.
2. CD Mosaic Coasters:
• Gather old CDs that you no longer need.
• Break them into small, mosaic-like pieces.
• Glue the pieces onto plain coasters or wooden squares.
• Seal with a clear varnish for a glossy finish.
3. Wine Cork Bulletin Board:
• Collect wine corks and arrange them on a piece of cardboard or a wooden frame.
• Glue them in place and let them dry.
• You now have a stylish bulletin board for notes and reminders.
4. Magazine Collage Art:
• Cut out colorful images and interesting text from old magazines.
• Create collages on canvas or heavy paper.
• Frame your artwork for a unique wall decoration.
5. Plastic Bottle Bird Feeder:
• Cut out holes or windows in a clean, empty plastic bottle.
• Fill it with birdseed and hang it in your garden.
• Watch as birds come to feed.
6. Glass Jar Lanterns:
• Save glass jars of various sizes.
• Paint them with translucent glass paint or glue tissue paper to create colorful patterns.
• Place tea lights or LED candles inside for a warm glow.
7. Denim Pocket Organizers:
• Cut pockets from old jeans and sew them onto a piece of fabric or canvas.
• Hang it on the wall or the back of a door to store small items like keys, pens, or makeup.
8. Egg Carton Flowers:
• Cut individual cups from a cardboard egg carton.
• Paint them in vibrant colors and attach them to wooden sticks.
• Arrange them in your garden for a burst of color.
9. Newspaper Baskets:
• Roll newspaper pages into tubes and secure them with glue.
• Weave the tubes together to create a sturdy basket.
• Paint or decorate it as desired.
10. Cereal Box Desk Organizer:
• Cut and fold empty cereal boxes into various shapes and sizes.
• Decorate them with wrapping paper or fabric.
• Use them to store office supplies or craft materials.
Remember to personalize these projects according to your preferences and available materials. Recycling and upcycling household items not only reduces waste but also encourages creativity and resourcefulness. Enjoy your crafting.
1. Seashell Rainbows
For these adorable rainbows, reuse cardboard from boxes or discarded food containers. Cut an arch from the cardboard to create this kid-friendly project using recycled materials. With acrylic craft paint, draw stripes of different colours on the arch. Hot-glue flat shells ($7; Michaels) to the rainbow once the paint has dried.
2. Visible Mending
“Visible mending” is a popular and eco-friendly trend in the world of textile and fashion. It involves repairing clothing and fabric items in a way that not only fixes the damage but also turns it into a unique and decorative feature. Here’s how you can embrace the art of visible mending:
1. Gather Supplies:
• You’ll need a damaged textile item (e.g., jeans with a hole, a torn shirt), thread in a matching or contrasting color, a needle, scissors, and fabric patches.
2. Assess the Damage:
• Identify the area that needs mending and assess the extent of the damage.
3. Choose a Mending Technique:
• There are various visible mending techniques to consider:
• Sashiko Stitching: This Japanese method uses running stitches in a grid pattern to create beautiful designs while reinforcing the fabric.
• Embroidery: You can use embroidery stitches to create colorful patterns over the damaged area.
• Patchwork: Attach a fabric patch to cover the hole or tear, making it a decorative element.
4. Prepare the Fabric:
• If you’re using a fabric patch, cut it to the desired shape and size, ensuring it covers the damaged area with a bit of overlap.
5. Start Mending:
• Thread your needle and begin stitching over the damaged area or attaching the fabric patch. Make sure your stitches are secure, especially if you’re repairing a functional item like jeans.
6. Get Creative:
• Use your imagination to create intricate patterns, color combinations, or designs with your stitches. This is where visible mending becomes an art form.
7. Secure and Finish:
• When you’re satisfied with your mending work, tie off the thread securely on the inside of the garment.
• Trim any excess thread or fabric.
8. Wear with Pride:
• Your mended item is now not only functional but also a unique piece of wearable art.
• Show it off proudly and embrace the idea of “wabi-sabi,” which finds beauty in imperfection.
Visible mending not only extends the life of your clothing and reduces waste but also allows you to express your creativity and individuality. Plus, it’s a sustainable way to embrace flaws and tell a story through your garments.
3. Fabric Scrap Balls
These fabric-wrapped balls are a simple project that can be made from leftover scraps from your stockpile and displayed in a nice bowl. Foam balls are covered in pieces of complementing fabric that have been cut and glued. To add further interest, pick a range of fabric designs and use both little and large balls.
4. Desk Accessories Holder
Creating a desk accessories holder is a practical and creative project that can help you keep your workspace organized. You can use recycled or readily available materials to craft one. Here’s how to make a desk accessories holder:
Materials You’ll Need:
• A sturdy container or base (e.g., a tin can, a wooden box, or a plastic container)
• Decorative paper, fabric, or paint (optional)
• Glue or adhesive
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Desk accessories (e.g., pens, pencils, scissors, paper clips)
Steps to Make a Desk Accessories Holder:
1. Prepare Your Container:
• Start with a clean and empty container. This can be a tin can, a wooden box, or any sturdy container that suits your style and needs.
2. Decorate (Optional):
• If you want to add a decorative touch to your holder, you can cover the exterior with decorative paper, fabric, or paint it. Measure and cut the material to fit the container’s dimensions.
• Use glue or adhesive to secure the decorative material in place. Allow it to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
3. Divide the Interior:
• Determine how you want to organize your desk accessories. You can create compartments by dividing the interior of the container.
• Measure the height of your desk accessories and mark off sections inside the container accordingly. Use a ruler and pencil to draw lines for dividing the space.
4. Cut and Assemble Dividers:
• Cut pieces of cardboard or foam board to create dividers. Ensure that they fit snugly inside the container and provide stability for your desk accessories.
• If you want, you can cover these dividers with the same decorative material you used for the exterior of the container.
5. Glue the Dividers in Place:
• Apply glue or adhesive to the bottoms of the dividers and press them firmly into the container, following the lines you drew earlier.
• Let the dividers dry in place.
6. Arrange Your Desk Accessories:
• Once everything is dry and secure, arrange your desk accessories in the divided sections. You can organize items like pens, pencils, scissors, paper clips, and more.
7. Personalize (Optional):
• To add a personal touch, you can further decorate your desk accessories holder by adding labels, stickers, or embellishments.
8. Place on Your Desk:
• Your desk accessories holder is now ready to use. Place it on your desk and enjoy the convenience of having your items neatly organized and within reach.
This DIY desk accessories holder not only helps you keep your workspace tidy but also allows you to customize it to match your style and preferences. It’s a practical and fun project for both organizing and decorating your desk area.
5. Bottle Cap Magnets
Magnets made from bottle caps will give your kitchen a recycled-chic appeal. A little magnet, available at craft stores, can be hot-glued inside vintage caps that you find at flea markets or thrift stores.These fabric-wrapped balls are a simple project that can be made from leftover scraps from your stockpile and displayed in a nice bowl. Foam balls are covered in pieces of complementing fabric that have been cut and glued. To add further interest, pick a range of fabric designs and use both little and large balls.
6. Business Card Holder
Here’s a novel way to recycle common garden rocks. Create vibrant patterns using acrylic craft paint. When the painted pebbles are dry, use them as garden markers or leave them outside to promote happiness as people pass by.
Purchase this 16-color value pack of matte acrylic paint from Michaels for $12.
7. Mod Mosaic Table
Creating a mod mosaic table is a fantastic DIY project that can add a unique and artistic touch to your home decor. This project involves using mosaic tiles to transform a plain table into a colorful and eye-catching piece of furniture. Here are the steps to make a mod mosaic table:
Materials You’ll Need:
• A plain table (wooden or any suitable material)
• Mosaic tiles (ceramic, glass, or other decorative tiles)
• Tile adhesive or mosaic glue
• Grout
• Grout sealer
• Tile nippers or glass cutter (if needed)
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Sponge
• Bucket
• Tile spacers (optional)
• Plastic sheets or newspaper (to protect your workspace)
Steps to Create a Mod Mosaic Table:
1. Select a Table: Choose a table that you want to transform into a mosaic masterpiece. Ensure it’s clean and free from any dirt or debris.
2. Plan Your Design: Decide on the mosaic design you want to create. You can go for a geometric pattern, an abstract design, or any other pattern that suits your style. Sketch out your design on paper to use as a reference.
3. Prepare the Tiles: If your mosaic tiles need cutting to fit your design, use tile nippers or a glass cutter to trim them to the desired size and shape. Be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves while handling tiles.
4. Apply Tile Adhesive:
• Work in small sections. Apply a layer of tile adhesive or mosaic glue to a section of the table surface using a trowel or a putty knife.
• Press the mosaic tiles onto the adhesive in your chosen pattern. If necessary, use tile spacers to maintain even spacing between tiles.
• Continue this process, section by section, until you’ve covered the entire table with tiles according to your design.
5. Let It Dry: Allow the adhesive to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 24-48 hours.
6. Grouting:
• Mix grout according to the instructions on the packaging. Make sure it’s a consistency that’s easy to work with but not too runny.
• Apply the grout generously over the mosaic tiles, making sure to fill all the gaps between the tiles.
• Use a sponge or a grout float to press the grout into the spaces and remove excess grout from the surface of the tiles.
7. Clean the Tiles: After about 10-15 minutes (before the grout fully hardens), wipe the tiles with a damp sponge to remove any grout residue on the tile surfaces.
8. Final Clean-Up: Once the grout is dry (usually after 24 hours), clean the mosaic table again with a damp sponge to remove any remaining haze from the tiles.
9. Seal the Grout: Apply a grout sealer to protect the grout lines and keep them looking fresh.
10. Enjoy Your Mod Mosaic Table: Your mosaic table is now complete! Place it in your desired location and enjoy your unique and artistic piece of furniture.
Creating a mod mosaic table can be a time-consuming project, but the result is a stunning and personalized addition to your home decor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and design a table that reflects your style and personality.
8. Patterned-Paper Book Covers
Create these earth-friendly beeswax wraps from spare fabric scraps. Each wrap replaces single-use plastics and can last up to a year. Simply wipe them down with warm, soapy water to clean them.
9. Metallic Vase
With a few plastic spoons, you can give a plain vase a new lease on life! Simply remove the spoons’ bottoms and spray-paint them with metallic paint right away. After it has dried, glue the spoons to the vase and show off your recycled DIY project.
10. Newspaper Holder
Utilising recycled cardboard and toilet paper tubes, quickly create a stylish cake stand. That is correct! We’ll walk you through putting the stand together and giving it a fresh coat of paint. Add the last trim by using an edge punch.
Purchase Daisy Border Punch at Joann for $17.
11. Recycled Jewlery Holder
Creating a recycled jewelry holder is a fun and eco-friendly DIY project that helps you keep your jewelry organized and easily accessible. You can make a stylish jewelry holder using materials you already have at home. Here’s how to create a recycled jewelry holder:
Materials You’ll Need:
• A recycled wooden frame or piece of wood (e.g., an old picture frame or wooden plank)
• Recycled materials for hooks or hangers (e.g., old drawer knobs, fork tines, clothespins, curtain rings, or bottle caps)
• Paint and brushes (optional)
• Decorative paper or fabric (optional)
• Glue or adhesive
• Screws and a screwdriver
• Sandpaper (if needed)
Steps to Make a Recycled Jewelry Holder:
1. Prepare the Frame or Base:
• If you’re using a wooden frame, remove any glass, pictures, or backing.
• Sand the wood to smooth any rough edges or surfaces if needed.
2. Paint or Decorate (Optional):
• If you want to add a pop of color or style, paint the wooden frame or base with acrylic paint. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
• Alternatively, you can cover the frame or base with decorative paper or fabric. Measure and cut the material to fit the dimensions, leaving a small border.
• Apply glue or adhesive to the back of the decorative material and carefully press it onto the frame or base. Allow it to dry completely.
3. Determine Hook Placement:
• Decide where you want to attach hooks or hangers to hold your jewelry. Arrange them evenly on the frame or base. You can use a ruler to measure and mark equal distances if needed.
4. Attach Hooks or Hangers:
• Use screws and a screwdriver to securely attach the recycled hooks or hangers to the frame or base. Ensure they are tight and won’t come loose.
• If you’re using drawer knobs or bottle caps as hooks, simply screw them in place.
5. Hang Your Jewelry:
• Hang your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings on the hooks or hangers. You can use S-hooks, small jewelry organizers, or curtain rings to hang different types of jewelry.
6. Add Extra Features (Optional):
• You can enhance your jewelry holder by adding extra features like small shelves or a corkboard section for pinning earrings.
• If you’re using a wooden plank as a base, you can also attach small hooks or clips on the bottom to hold rings or stud earrings.
7. Mount or Display:
• Depending on the size and weight of your jewelry holder, you can choose to mount it on the wall or display it on a dresser or vanity.
8. Enjoy Your Recycled Jewelry Holder:
• Your jewelry holder is now ready to use. Enjoy the convenience of having your jewelry neatly organized and on display.
This DIY recycled jewelry holder not only helps you organize your jewelry but also adds a unique and eco-friendly element to your home decor. It’s a creative way to repurpose materials and showcase your favorite pieces of jewelry.
12. DIY Evelope Pillow
Use a favourite sweatshirt, college t-shirt, or sports jersey to sew an envelope pillow cover. There are only a few basic sewing techniques needed for this handmade pillow cover. To match your decor, give the pillow a patterned backing.
13. Fabric Storage Bins
Creating fabric storage bins is a practical and customizable way to organize your belongings while adding a touch of style to your space. You can make fabric storage bins in various sizes to suit your needs and decor. Here’s how to make fabric storage bins:
Materials You’ll Need:
• Sturdy fabric (such as canvas, denim, or upholstery fabric)
• Measuring tape
• Fabric scissors
• Sewing machine and thread
• Iron and ironing board
• Fabric marker or chalk
• Ruler
• Pins
• Cardboard or foam board (optional, for reinforcing the bin)
Steps to Make Fabric Storage Bins:
1. Determine Bin Size:
• Decide how large you want your fabric storage bin to be. Measure the height, width, and depth of the desired bin.
2. Cut the Fabric:
• Cut two pieces of fabric for the sides of the bin and one piece for the bottom.
• For the sides, the height should be the desired height of the bin, and the width should be twice the desired width of the bin plus seam allowance (usually 1/2 inch on each side).
• For the bottom, cut a piece of fabric with dimensions matching the width and depth of the bin plus seam allowance.
3. Mark and Sew Corners:
• Fold each side piece in half with right sides together, so it forms a rectangle. Mark a line across the bottom of the fold, creating a triangle. This will be the corner of the bin.
• Sew along the marked line, creating a triangle-shaped seam at each corner. Repeat this step for both side pieces.
4. Iron and Hem the Top Edge:
• Fold and iron the top edge of each side piece down by about 1/2 inch to create a clean edge.
• Sew along the folded edge to secure it and create a finished hem.
5. Assemble the Bin:
• Place the two side pieces with the right sides facing each other and align the bottom edges.
• Sew along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open. Use a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
• Reinforce the bottom corners by sewing across them diagonally.
6. Create Handles (Optional):
• To add handles, cut two fabric strips to your desired handle length and width.
• Fold each strip in half lengthwise with right sides facing.
• Sew along the long edge and one short edge, leaving one short edge open.
• Turn the handle right side out and press it flat.
• Attach the handles to the inside of the bin by sewing them securely to the top edge.
7. Finish the Bin:
• Turn the bin right side out.
• If desired, insert a piece of cardboard or foam board into the bottom to add structure and stability.
8. Use Your Fabric Storage Bin:
• Your fabric storage bin is now ready for use. Fill it with items you want to organize and place it on a shelf or in a closet to keep your space neat and tidy.
You can make multiple fabric storage bins in different sizes and fabrics to match your decor and storage needs. This DIY project allows you to create functional and stylish storage solutions for your home.
14. Paint Cans Turned Organizer
For storage of your art and craft items, make this cool organiser. Scrapbooking, wallpaper or wrapping paper remnants can be used to line quart paint cans. To attach the paper to the cans, use spray adhesive or double-stick tape. The cans can be stacked on their sides and joined with glue to form a display. Use gallon cans and the same concept to store larger items.