Think before you throw anything away, you will be surprised what you can make out of everyday objects. This page contains craft projects and ideas using recycled materials.
Making a Rug from Plastic BagsThere are a few different ways to make a plarn hooked or braided rug reusing hundreds of plastic bags. This is a page about making a rug from plastic bags.
Making a Necktie PurseThis is a page about making a necktie purse. Neckties can be repurposed into a number of interesting craft project.
Crafts Using an Old Wedding Dress?This page is about using an old wedding dress. When these dresses are no longer in good enough shape for another wedding, there are ways the beautiful fabrics can be reused.
Crafts Using Crown Royal BagsThis is a page about crafts using Crown Royal bags.Those beautiful purple cloth Crown Royal bags are perfect to use in many crafts.
Plastic Soda Bottle Wind Chimes?Plastic 2 liter bottles can be used for many different types of crafts, even wind chimes. This is a page about plastic soda bottle wind chimes.
Making Crafts With PlarnThis is a page about making crafts with plarn. Plarn is yarn made from cut up plastic grocery bags. It has many craft uses, as it can be substituted for acrylic and other yarns in some projects.
How to Make Bookmarks from Greeting CardsGreeting cards are a good craft supply to keep on hand; there are so many uses they can be put to. One easy and fun project is to make bookmarks from them. They make great all around gifts and remembrance gifts.
Crafts Using Old SilverwareThis is a page about crafts using old silverware. In addition to the silverware wind chime, there are endless crafting possibilities for using old silverware.
Crafts Using Milk JugsPlastic milk jugs make a good starting place for many creative craft projects. This is a page about crafts using milk jugs.
Recycled Candle Wax Air FreshenerMake a pretty air freshener using leftover scented candle wax. It can be cut into fun shapes using a cookie cutter. This is a page about recycled candle wax air freshener.
20+ Clever Crafts Using Toilet Paper TubesThis page contains crafts using toilet paper tubes. Empty tissue paper tubes can be useful in many, fun craft projects.
Craft Uses for Plastic Foam Curlers?It is sometimes amazing the creative ideas that crafters come up with when working with recycled or repurposed items. Even old foam hair rollers may find a new life. This is a page about craft uses for plastic foam curlers.
Uses for Wallpaper BooksWallpaper sample books have many beautiful and sturdy samples that can be used in crafts. This is a page about uses for wallpaper books.
Uses for Empty Thread Cones?This is a page about uses for empty threads cones. Large conical thread cones can be reused in a variety of ways including craft projects.
Sunflower Craft IdeasSunflowers are bright and cheerful flowers that are a symbol of summer. These yellow, orange or brown flowers are easy to use as decorations on homemade craft projects.
Ideas for Old Wallets and also Old Plastic Store CardsI have a two-fold idea for old wallets (you see so many at the garage sale tables) and old cards that you no longer use - (you know, the grocery store cards, etc.?)
Upcycling Expired PlannersIt's 2023 now! Do you have any 2022 planners? While cleaning, I found a few 2022 planners that I used half way but never really utilized the planner to the fullest. While flipping through the planner there were lots of potential.
Copycat Paint Brush CoverI found a good use for all those political ads and other ads I have received in the mail. I pulled one out of my recycling paper. The size and thickness was perfect for making the paint brush cover that I needed. I had one that I liked and I traced it.
Simple Little BirdhouseMy husband made this cute birdhouse when we went to visit grandkids. The neighbor donated wood from a swing set and my husband used it to make the birdhouse. Even the dowels were saved from an old project. We already had the screws. So the birdhouse was no cost.
Recycled Ceramic Look VaseI used plaster of Paris to make this ceramic looking vase from a soda bottle.
Tootsie Roll Wrapper Fishing LureOnce when I went fishing, I caught a fish in the ocean using a shiny metal lure. I decided to make my own lure out of a Tootsie Roll candy wrapper with a little bit of a semi melted tootsie roll. I squished it and used the wrapper and twisted it and twisted it again and again to make a replica of a fish. Now I do not know what fish looks like a barcode but the inside liner was shiny foil like material, which I think during the day time the light to reflect off of it and produce an eye-catching lure for the fish!
Recycled Chair Leg Candlestick HoldersI had four chair legs left from a previous craft project (posted on Thriftyfun a few months ago). Rather than discard them, I made them into candlestick holders.
Pattern For Flowers From 6-pack Rings?Years ago, I made hyacinth flowers from plastic 6-pack rings and wooden skewers. After completed, I spray painted them in pastels. Anyone have the directions?
Knitted 3D Wire HeartYou don't need expensive materials and special tools to make beautiful jewelry. To make this original heart, you only need wire from an old transformer and knitting needles. Knitted wire jewelries look really amazing. This heart will look great as a pendant. You can add a brooch pin and you will have a beautiful brooch.
Easy Sock Top Mug SleeveI used a child's sock and cut it off where the ribbing ended and made a mug sleeve. I did add a little embroidery but it's just fine as is, if you just want a basic sleeve for your mug. Super easy and a cute little protector for your hands.
Buckle from Drink CanIf you need a small buckle, you can quickly and easily make one from pull tag of a drink can. This buckle will fit a strap about 1 inch wide. You can also paint the buckle any color you like.
Beads from Plastic BottleThere are many ways to use plastic bottles in craft. I suggest you make beads out of plastic bottles. It is not difficult at all and will not take much time.
Shank Button from Old Aluminum CanI want to share with you my idea for making Shank Buttons. This project will help not only to make original buttons, but also to reuse old aluminum cans.
DIY Wiggly EyesWiggly eyes are hard to find in my place nowadays. I have gone to so many craft stores and I just couldn't find them. And maybe due to this pandemic, the supply of this craft material in my area has become scarce as it is not part of the essentials. Then I found out a simple hack on this at home.
Origami Dove Brooch from Old JeansOrigami is the art of paper folding. I made this brooch by folding denim from old jeans instead of paper. I used the origami scheme for folding a dove.
Plastic Utensil DragonflyHere is a way to make a dragonfly using plastic utensils.
Converting a Drawer Unit Into a FootstoolI recently gave a very large desk to a gal just across the road from me. I had used it less and less over the last year, so it was time.
Upcycled Valentine's Candy Box Birthday GiftHeart shaped candy boxes make the perfect beginning for a repurposed birthday gift. Some paint, stickers, and other decorations alter the original message and the plastic candy compartments can be used for little message papers. Learn how to create your own below.
Gift Card Earbuds HolderWith some strategic cutting you can transform a pretty gift card into a holder for your earbuds. The instructions needed to make this convenient tangle free storage solution follow.
Gift Card Earbuds HolderGetting earbuds tangled up is not only annoying, but terrible for their lifespan. You can make this cute and convenient holder for your earbuds in less than 10 minutes. This is a great way to upcycle or make use of gift cards that have some sentimental value in them. I use these for storage purposes. I also for on-the-go times, popping them securely in my purse.
Making a Notebook from Vinyl RecordsThis unique notebook was made from two vinyl records, cut, drilled, and then bound with a handmade wire spiral. Give this practical recycled craft a try.
Crafts Using Paint CansPaint cans have a certain charm, whether using an old vintage one or a clean new one. Many craft ideas use a paint can as a base or a decorated container.
Making a Mixed Media Journal CoverSave your odds and ends to make this mixed media journal cover. This is a great project or gift for a tween or teen.
Making an Egg Carton AlligatorSave your cardboard egg cartons to make one of these adorable alligators. This is a great recycled craft to do with the kids.
Making a Recycled Snow and Heart VaseMake an inexpensive vase to express your love for Valentine's day. Using a recycled jar, acrylic paint, and left over Christmas art supplies you can create a special gift.
Upcycled Giftcard Keychain FobReuse expired or empty gift cards, or coupon cards to create your own upcycled giftcard key fob. Create a design such as the simple bird found here or one of your own making and follow the easy steps to make one for yourself or to give as gifts.
Making a Wiggly Paper SnowmanUse some of your paper to recycle creating a wiggly paper snowman. With white paper, magazines, scissors and glue you can make a cute seasonal, hanging decoration.
Making Paper Tube Napkin RingsUnique paper tube napkin rings can be crafted to use for any occasion. Decorate them with wide ribbon, colored paper and embellishments, seeds, beads, and more. This page contains some example craft projects for making paper tube napkin rings.
DIY Shirt Collar Stays from Magnetic Hotel KeysWhen the creative juices begin to flow anything is possible. Try making shirt collar stays from magnetic hotel keys. Recycled crafts are are an excellent way to keep crafting affordable, plus they help the environment as well.
Redesigned Greeting CardsBy covering up sayings on cards you have received from online orders, you can redesign cards to add a suitable greeting. Learn how to make redesigned greeting cards for a holiday, birthday, or any occasion.
Making a Hanging Wood Accent Laundry SignNeed a reminder about when to run your laundry? Make this simple accent sign for your laundry room and customize it to fit your needs.
Repurpose a Cylindrical Container Into a Jewelry StandYou too can make this unique jewelry stand from a sturdy cylindrical food container. Add some decorative paper and ribbon and you have a fun piece for your dresser to help organize and display your jewelry.
How to Make a Pouch from an Old Mini DressLearn how to make a fabric pouch from an old mini dress by following the step by step instructions on this page. Photos accompany the steps to make the craft easier to complete.
Crafts Using Greeting CardsSave your old greeting cards to use in a wide variety of crafts. There are a number of examples for such crafts on this page from a basket made from cards to scrapbook uses.
Weekdays Clothespin OrganizerKeep your days of the week organized by using these handy and colorful clothespins. They make a pretty decoration but are also useful for organzing paperwork or chores.
How to Make Plastic Bottle Cap NozzlesTurn your ordinary caps from plastic bottles into handy nozzles. Just use a metal skewer or other thin metal implement that can be heated.
Making a Yarn Cozy Jean PocketHold your skein of yarn together with this cozy made from a recycled jean pocket. It can hold your scissors and a few other basic supplies, allowing you to knit or crochet on the go.
How to Make Plastic Egg FirefliesTake colorful plastic Easter eggs and a few basic supplies to create these adorable light up fireflies. This is a page about plastic egg fireflies.
Make Pot Holders from Shoulder PadsRecycled or repurposed crafts are not only fun, but they can be earth friendly. Shoulder pads go in and out of fashion. If they are not in fashion or not to your liking remove them and create something new and useful. Pads filled with cotton or wool are preferred for pot holders, as polyester does not block heat effectively. Learn how to make pot holders from shoulder pads.
How to Make a Junk Journal Out of EnvelopesJunk journals are a combination of journaling and mixed media. This craft has been around for some time allowing each person to create a truly unique personal memento. Altered books are similar projects. Learn how to make a junk journal out of envelopes.
Making Recycled Paper Mini NotebooksHaving a mini notebook that you can slip into your purse or bag can come in really handy. Don't buy them, follow the steps in this page to make your own using recycled paper, and save money. This is a page about making recycled paper mini notebooks.
Bloomin' Straws Bouquet for Mother's DayTake leftover drinking straws and a recycled container to make these pretty little blooms. It's perfect for kids to make and Mom or Grandma is sure to appreciate it. This page has instructions for making a bloomin' straws bouquet for Mother's Day.
Salvaging Hardware from JunkMost things eventually fall apart, but not all at the same time. Here, two pairs of my boots became so worn out, they were too dangerous for wear. They were not suitable for donation, however, the silver hardware and laces were still like new. I removed them to use in crafts and sewing projects.
Making a Trivet for Hot Dishes from a Puzzle?Puzzle pieces are fun to use in lots of craft projects. To make a hot dish trivet you would need to cover the pieces either with heat resistant glass or some type of heat resistant epoxy coating. This page contains some suggestions for making a trivet for hot dishes from a puzzle.
Making a Bible CoverMaking a cover for an often used book such as your bible will protect the volume and provide years of enjoyment. There are many ways to make book covers, including repurposing a worn crochet handbag. This is a page about making a bible cover.
Recycled Heart BoxThis is a page about making a recycled heart box. You can easily make one of these adorable little heart boxes out of recycled food packaging. It is easy to customize the size to suit your needs and the decorating possibilities are endless.
Saving Little Plastic Balls for CraftingHere are two ways to get 'nearly' free little plastic balls for crafting.
Cardboard Tube Christmas WreathWith recycled empty paper rolls, you can create a simple craft with the kids. This is a page about cardboard tube Christmas ring wreath.
Handcrafted Rag Made From Old ShirtsThis is a page about making a handcrafted rag made from old shirts. Grab two old cotton t-shirts and a pair of scissors to make this nifty recycled cleaning rag. This is an excellent way to reuse old clothing.
Clear Plastic Cap MagnetsI have upcycled these salt/pepper containers into vases. I have the caps left and now finally figured out what I could do with them. I turned these caps into magnets!
How to Make an Aluminum Can PinwheelRecycle aluminum drink cans to make these fun garden decorations. This is a page about how to make an aluminum can pinwheel.
Tin Can Pull-top OrnamentA fabric yo yo can make a cute ornament when fashioned around a recycled can pull top. This is a page about tin can pull-top ornament.
How to Make Snack Box New Year's NoisemakersSmall snack boxes such as dried cranberries are packaged in can be converted into these cute noisemakers to ring in the New Year.This is a page about how to make snack box New Year's noisemakers.
Crafts Using Plastic Leis?If you are trying to decide on some crafting ideas using plastic leis read on. This is a page about crafts using plastic leis.
Making Yarn from SocksThis is a page about making yarn from socks. Before you throw out those old socks, consider reusing them as yarn for new projects. Not only are you keeping items out of the garbage, you are creating something unique and frugal.
Reusing a Balloon Weight Gift BagThis is a page about reusing a balloon weight bag as a gift bag. If your bundle of balloons came attached to one of these cute little weighted bags, here is a tip about to reuse it as an actual gift bag.
Expired Credit Cards for Storing EarphonesLet's make use of expired credit cards or old IDs. If you have a creative mind, you can make this craft. You never know; there are a lot of ideas for things you can do with those cards!
Mosaic Caterpillar Using Bowling BallsBroken tile mosaic finish makes this recycled bowling ball project fun to do and gives you a cute piece of garden art. This is a page about mosaic bug bowling balls.
Recycled Clothing Pet BedOld worn out socks and clothing can find new purpose when making a bed for you dog or cat. This is a page about recycled clothing pet bed.
Making a Little Lady Pop Tab Key FobMake this cute key fob with a recycled pop can tab and some bits of fabric. This is a page about making a little lady pop tab key fob.
Recycled Bread Tie PeopleGet out the paints and markers and recycle your bread bag ties into cute little people. This is a page about making recycled bread tie people.
Making Watercolor Paints with Dried Up MarkersWhen your colored markers get dried up, there is still a great way to some more fun craft uses out of them. This is a page about making watercolor paints with dried up markers.
Tea Cup Pedestal ServerThis is the perfect project for one of those lovely thrifty store tea cup and saucer sets that you had to buy with no clear use in mind. This is a page about tea cup pedestal server.
How to Make Recycled Taper CandlesThis is a page about how to make recycled taper candles. Use up your leftover wax that wasn't enough to burn, but was bound to have a use some day, to make new candles.
Recycled Detergent Cap Wind ClackersMost recycling facilities don't accept plastic caps. This recycled craft finds a way to reuse them by making wind clackers.
Bottle Cap MagnetsThere are so many ways you can decorate metal bottle caps and make them into magnets. This is a page about bottle cap magnets.
Making Recycled Clothing CoastersThis is a page about making recycled clothing coasters. Strips of braided recycled clothing or left over fabric can be sewn into pretty coasters.
Making a Cardboard Tube WreathThis is a page about making a cardboard tube wreath. A lovely, inexpensive wreath can be fashioned from flattened, cut and glued cardboard tubes pieces.
Toilet Paper Tube Gift Card HoldersThis is a page about toilet paper tube gift card holders. Reuse and decorate a flattened paper tube to wrap a gift card for a special occasion.
Making a Paper Towel Holder from a Clothes HangerThis is a page about making a paper towel holder from a clothes hanger . A creative upcycle for a basic wire clothes hanger.
Pet Dust BunniesThis is a page about pet dust bunnies. If you are looking for a clever gag gift that doesn't cost much; here it is. These cuties are made of recycled dryer lint.
Decorating Quilted HangersThis is a page about decorating quilted hangers. Fabric covered quilted hangers can be decorated to look even more elegant.
Making Coasters and Pot Holders From JeansThis is a page about making coasters and pot holders from jeans. Denim fabric is so durable that recycling old jeans into new items is a popular craft. Try making pot holders or coasters for yourself and to give as gifts.
Making a Floating Wine Cork KeyringThis is a page about making a floating wine cork keyring. A wine cork floating key ring is an easy to make, inexpensive gift for the boating or fishing enthusiast on your list.
Making an Old Window Coffee TableThis is a page about making an old window coffee table. Repurpose an old window and make a unique coffee table.
Making a Book Page BookmarkThis is a page about making a book page bookmark. Discarded books can find a new life when used to make a variety of craft projects.
Making a Recycled Tin Can Pin CushionThis is a page about making a recycled tin can pin cushion. A decorated tin can is a good start to making a unique pin cushion.
Making Denim ScrubbersThis is a page about making denim scrubbers. Old jeans have so many uses after we retire them from our wardrobe.
Halloween Craft Ideas for Orange Net Bags?This is a page about Halloween craft ideas for orange net bags. The bright orange color of these bags make them perfect to recycle into some creative Halloween crafts.
Making a Folded Paper TrivetThis is a page about making a folded paper trivet. This recycled craft is fun and easy enough to have children help make some to give as gifts.
Crafts Using Bridesmaid DressesThis is a page about crafts using bridesmaid dresses. Bridesmaid dresses are often not re-worn and are relegated to the back of the closet. Consider using them in a lovely craft.
Craft Ideas Using Golf BallsThis is a page about craft ideas using golf balls. When these game balls get dented or torn, they can be upcycled in creative ways.
Making a Recycled Mesh Bag Pot ScrubberThis is a page about making a recycled mesh bag pot scrubber. Mesh produce bags can find a second calling as a pot scrubber.
Making a Foot Stool from a Kitchen PotThis is a page about making a foot stool from a kitchen pot. Recycle a large cooking pot to make a neat foot stool with a place for storage.
Making a Shampoo Bottle Mobile Phone...This is a page about making a shampoo bottle mobile phone charging station. Recycle an empty shampoo bottle and make a useful charging station for your mobile phone.
Making a Dog Food Bag RugThis is a page about making a dog food bag rug. Heavy duty dog food bags are the perfect material for making a rug.
Crafts Using BlanketsThis is a page about crafts using blankets. Old, but not too worn blankets, or even thrift store finds, can have a second life when touched by the hand of a creative crafter.
Recycled Wine Cork Bulletin StripThis video shows you how to make your own bulletin strip out of wine corks.
Drinking Glasses from Recycled BottlesIt's easy to use a rotary bottle cutter to make recycled drinking glasses from Perrier bottles. Learn how to make them in this short video.
Making Red Hat Magnets from Soda Bottle Caps?I am trying to make red hat magnets out of plastic soda caps. I can't figure out the best way to do it. Can you help me with some suggestions?
How to Cut Tires?What sort of tools are needed to cut old tires to make ornamental objects?
How Do You Make Plarn?My computer has a heavy duty security system and will not allow the instructions for making plarn. Could someone email the directions to me directly? I have a lot of bags and would like to knit some outdoor rugs and chair seats. I have 8 feral cats who love sitting on my cushions....
Recycled Greeting Card Projects?Does anyone have any ideas for using used greeting cards for craft projects?
Melting and Reshaping Plastic Soda Bottles?How do I melt and reshape 2 liter pop bottles?
Uses for 250 Hot Pads?I am pretty sure I am about to be asked to take back the "Care Squares" I made from recycled yarn from a local shop, because they are acrylic. They are not pot holders, but hot pads. We crafters have been making them for decades, but now it's a melting issue because they are essentially plastic.