13 Cute & Clever Eco-Friendly Crafts.

 13 Cute & Clever Eco-Friendly Crafts

Certainly! Here are some cute and clever eco-friendly craft ideas that you can try:

1. Recycled Paper Flowers:
Collect old newspapers or magazines.
Cut them into flower shapes and color them using non-toxic paints or markers.
Attach them to twigs or recycled cardboard for stems.
These paper flowers make a charming eco-friendly decoration.

2. Upcycled Jar Lanterns:
Clean and remove labels from glass jars.
Paint the jars with eco-friendly paint or decorate them with decoupage using recycled paper.
Place a tea light or LED candle inside for a lovely lantern.

3. Fabric Scrap Keychains:
Gather fabric scraps from old clothes or linens.
Cut them into small shapes and sew them together, leaving a loop for a keyring.
These cute keychains make use of fabric that would otherwise go to waste.

4. DIY Cloth Napkins:
Repurpose old fabric or bedsheets into cloth napkins.
Cut them into squares and hem the edges.
These reusable napkins are both practical and eco-friendly.

5. Soda Can Herb Garden:
Clean empty soda cans and remove the tops.
Paint the cans with eco-friendly paint and decorate them.
Fill them with soil and plant herbs like basil, mint, or parsley.
These mini gardens are perfect for small spaces.

6. Plastic Bottle Bird Feeder:
Cut a plastic bottle in half and discard the top part.
Paint or decorate the bottom half.
Fill it with birdseed and attach a wooden spoon as a perch.
Hang it in your garden to attract feathered friends.

7. T-shirt Tote Bag:
Repurpose old T-shirts by turning them into reusable tote bags.
Cut off the sleeves and neckline, leaving the bottom intact.
Stitch the bottom hem, and you have a handy eco-friendly bag.

8. Newspaper Coasters:
Roll up strips of newspaper tightly and glue them together in a circular shape.
Coat with eco-friendly varnish to make them waterproof.
These coasters are not only functional but also a great conversation piece.

9. Wine Cork Plant Markers:
Collect used wine corks.
Cut a slit in one end and insert a small wooden stick.
Label the stick with the name of the plant or herb.
Stick them into your garden to keep track of your plants.

10. Repurposed CD Wall Art:
Take old CDs that are no longer in use.
Paint or decorate them with eco-friendly materials.
Arrange them on a wooden frame to create a unique wall art piece.

These eco-friendly crafts not only allow you to express your creativity but also help reduce waste and promote sustainability. Enjoy making them!

1. Recycled Craft Bean Bag Toss Game

Creating a recycled craft bean bag toss game is a fun and eco-friendly project that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. Here’s how you can make one:

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Cardboard box or a sturdy wooden board (recycled if possible)
2. Recycled bean bags or make your own using scrap fabric and dried beans or rice
3. Acrylic paint (eco-friendly options are available)
4. Brushes
5. Scissors
6. Craft knife
7. Ruler
8. Pencil
9. Hot glue gun and glue sticks
10. Optional: Old magazines or newspapers for decoration

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Board:
Start with a sturdy base for your bean bag toss game. You can use a cardboard box with one side open or a wooden board made from reclaimed wood or old furniture.
If using a cardboard box, reinforce it by adding extra layers of cardboard inside for stability.

2. Design the Game:
Decide on the design of your bean bag toss game. You can paint a simple target with different point values or get creative with themes like animals, numbers, or shapes.

3. Paint the Board:
Use acrylic paint to decorate the board. Make sure to use eco-friendly paint, and consider using recycled or non-toxic paint if possible.
Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

4. Cut Holes:
Determine the size and placement of the holes for tossing bean bags. You can have one or multiple holes with varying point values.
Use a ruler and pencil to mark the hole positions.
Carefully cut out the holes using a craft knife. Make sure the holes are large enough for the bean bags to fit through but not too large to make the game too easy.

5. Decorate the Game Board (Optional):
If you want to add additional decoration, consider using old magazines or newspapers to create collages on the board. Use eco-friendly glue to adhere the images and seal them with a non-toxic varnish or sealant.

6. Make Bean Bags:
If you don’t have recycled bean bags, you can make your own by cutting scrap fabric into squares, sewing them into pouches, and filling them with dried beans or rice. Make sure to secure the openings tightly.

7. Play and Enjoy:
Set up your bean bag toss game outdoors or indoors.
Establish rules and point values for the different holes.
Take turns tossing the bean bags and keep score.
Have fun playing your eco-friendly bean bag toss game with family and friends!

By using recycled materials and eco-friendly paint, you can create an entertaining game while promoting sustainability and creativity.

2. Upcycled E-Reader

Information on how to make your own eReader or tablet case with some fabric and an old book.  If you enjoy accessories, this is a fun way to collect numerous covers, make a unique gift, or just have for convenience.

visit DIY eReader Case to learn more.

3. Reuse Your Egg Cartons As Puppet Material For Kids

This article provides instructions on how to turn used egg cartons into entertaining puppets for your children. Then arrange a performance and relish your efforts!
Visit Jennifer Fischer’s blog to learn more.

4. Eco Craft for Kids: Making Your Own Pencil Box

Paper scraps can be stored in clear, plastic lettuce containers with lids, and used shoe boxes work well for storing paint and paintbrushes. We also use unused cleaning wipe packets or diaper wipe boxes to store crayons and markers. This easy DIY project encourages children to reuse things by “upcycling” materials.

5. Upcycled Sewing Machine Craft

Upcycling an old sewing machine into a unique craft project can be a rewarding and creative endeavor. Here’s how you can transform an old sewing machine into a functional piece of art or furniture:

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Old sewing machine (preferably non-functional or one you’re willing to repurpose)
2. Screwdriver and wrenches
3. Sandpaper and sanding block
4. Primer (if painting)
5. Paint (eco-friendly options are available)
6. Brushes or spray paint
7. Clear varnish or sealant
8. Fabric or cushion for the seat (optional)
9. Foam padding (if making a seat)
10. Staple gun (if making a seat)
11. Decorative hardware or accessories (optional)

Instructions:

1. Disassemble the Sewing Machine:
Begin by carefully disassembling the sewing machine. Use a screwdriver and wrenches to remove the various components, including the sewing machine head, motor, and any other unnecessary parts. Keep the parts you might want to reuse.

2. Clean and Sand:
Clean all the components to remove any dust or grease. Sand the metal parts lightly to create a smooth surface for painting.

3. Prepare for Painting (Optional):
If you want to paint the sewing machine, start by applying a coat of primer to help the paint adhere better. Allow the primer to dry completely.

4. Paint and Decorate:
Choose your paint color or colors and apply them to the sewing machine components. You can use brushes or spray paint, depending on your preference.
Get creative with your design. You can go for a solid color or create intricate patterns or designs. Let your imagination run wild.
Allow the paint to dry completely between coats, following the instructions on the paint can.
Optionally, add decorative hardware or accessories to enhance the look of your upcycled sewing machine.

5. Protect with Varnish:
Once your paint is dry and you’re satisfied with the appearance, apply a clear varnish or sealant to protect the finish. This will also give it a glossy or matte appearance, depending on your preference.

6. Assemble and Repurpose:
Reassemble the sewing machine, keeping only the parts you want for your upcycled project. You can use the base as a unique table, desk, or even a vanity.
If you’re turning it into a seat, attach foam padding to the sewing machine’s seat area using a staple gun, and cover it with your chosen fabric. Secure the fabric tightly.
Ensure that all the parts are securely fastened and the sewing machine is stable.

7. Display or Use:
Place your upcycled sewing machine in your desired location or use it for its intended purpose, whether as a decorative piece, a functional desk, or a statement furniture item.

Transforming an old sewing machine into an upcycled craft project allows you to give new life to a vintage item while showcasing your creativity and commitment to sustainability.

6. Making Seeded Paper Green Craft

Making paper with your children is a wonderfully enjoyable pastime that is a terrific way to teach them about recycling.  She was immediately interested when I began to demonstrate how to manufacture plantable paper to my daughter. She questioned whether it was the process used to create the paper she writes on and whether all paper is made from trees.

7. Turn A Plastic Bottle Into Bathroom Storage

Makeup, toothbrushes, or cotton balls fit perfectly in Cristin Frank’s recycled plastic bottle bathroom storage idea.  It is perfect for compact settings because it doesn’t take up any counter space.
visit Plastic Bottle Storage to learn more.

8. Eco-friendly Craft: Make Your Own Pet Motel

Your kids will enjoy crafting this entertaining activity, and once they’re finished, they’ll have endless hours to use their imaginations and play. For your child’s stuffed animals, make this eco-friendly project into a pet hostel. Actually, you may construct any variation of this that you like, such as a doll house or a parking lot.
visit Cardboard Boxes Crafts to learn more.

9. Eco-Friendly Clay Elf Craft

Make your favourite elf to spread some festive cheer this year! All you need is some clay (any sculpting or non-hardening clay will do), a pencil, a hair raiser (garlic press or strainer), and of course, your IMAGINATION! “Clay is one of the kid-friendly ‘toys’ on the planet.  Every kid I teach and watch enjoys and grins when they work with clay since it is simply muck.
find out more at Creating a Clay Elf

10. Make Your Own Eco-Friendly Puzzle Kids Craft

Children may learn while having fun and you can avoid taking them to the toy store by letting them make puzzles. They can repurpose their artwork or old magazine photographs by making a DIY puzzle. They get to learn about reusing and recycling while also getting to practise problem-solving.
visit Eco-Friendly Puzzle to learn more.

11. Recycled Box Music Makers

Making rattle boxes is a terrific way to have some musical fun because the holidays bring so many parcels of various sizes and shapes to your home. If you embellish them with textured paper or fabric, it becomes both a melodic and sensuous experience.

tinytappingtoes.wordpress.com is the source of the image.

12. DIY Dog Bed Eco-Friendly Craft

Some clothes can be too torn or discoloured to be donated. What are you supposed to do with clothes that isn’t suitable for donation? Old T-shirts, for example, can be reused in a variety of ways, such as by being turned into cleaning rags. Make a DIY pet pillow out of your old textiles if you have enough rags to do so.
Homemade Pet Bed has additional information.

13. Recycled Picture Frame

Creating a recycled picture frame is a wonderful way to give new life to old materials while showcasing your favorite photos or artwork. Here’s how to make a recycled picture frame:

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Old Frame: Look for an old picture frame that you no longer use or visit thrift stores and garage sales to find one.

2. Sandpaper: To smooth out rough edges or surfaces (optional).
3. Paint or Stain: Choose a color or finish that suits your style and matches your decor.
4. Paintbrushes or Stain Applicators: For applying the paint or stain.
5. Clear Varnish or Sealant: To protect the finish (optional).
6. Decorative Elements: Optional items such as buttons, seashells, or small trinkets for embellishment.

7. Glue: To attach decorative elements (if desired).
8. Photograph or Artwork: The picture you want to display in the frame.
9. Cardboard or Foam Board: To create a backing for your picture.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Frame:
Start by cleaning the old frame to remove any dust or dirt.
If the frame has rough edges or a finish you want to change, use sandpaper to smooth the surface. Be sure to sand in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask if necessary.

2. Paint or Stain the Frame:
Apply your chosen paint or stain to the frame. You can paint it a solid color or create a distressed or weathered look for a rustic feel.
Allow the frame to dry completely between coats, following the instructions on the paint or stain label.
If you’d like to protect the finish and add a glossy or matte appearance, apply a clear varnish or sealant once the paint or stain is dry.

3. Prepare the Backing:
Cut a piece of cardboard or foam board to fit the dimensions of the frame. This will serve as the backing for your picture.
Attach your photograph or artwork to the backing using tape, glue, or mounting adhesive.

4. Decorate (Optional):
Get creative and add decorative elements to your frame. You can glue on buttons, seashells, small tiles, or any other items that match your aesthetic.
Allow any glue to dry completely before moving on.

5. Assemble Your Picture Frame:
Place the backing with your photo or artwork into the frame.
If your frame has a back panel, secure it in place using the provided clips or screws.

6. Display Your Picture Frame:
Find the perfect spot to display your upcycled picture frame, whether it’s on a wall, a shelf, or a table.

Repurposing an old frame not only reduces waste but also allows you to create a unique and personalized piece of decor. It’s a great way to showcase your favorite memories or artwork in a sustainable and creative manner.

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