10 Fun Crafts to Do with Recyclables

Are you looking for creative and eco-friendly craft ideas to do with recyclable materials? Dive into the world of upcycling with these 10 fun and engaging projects that are perfect for all ages. From turning cardboard tubes into adorable characters to repurposing glass jars into miniature terrariums, there's something for everyone to enjoy while reducing waste and unleashing creativity.

1. Cardboard Tube Characters

Transforming empty toilet paper rolls into adorable characters is a delightful craft that sparks creativity in both kids and adults alike. By using simple materials like paint, markers, and craft paper, you can bring these cardboard tube characters to life with unique personalities and designs. Whether crafting a superhero, animal, or fantasy creature, the possibilities are endless with this fun and eco-friendly project.

Encouraging children to engage in this activity not only provides them with a creative outlet but also teaches them the value of reusing materials that would otherwise end up in the trash. As they paint and decorate their cardboard tube characters, they develop fine motor skills and imaginative thinking, turning a simple household item into a canvas for storytelling and play.

Moreover, this craft promotes sustainability by showcasing how everyday objects can be repurposed into something new and exciting. It's a great way to introduce the concept of recycling and upcycling in a hands-on and enjoyable manner. By transforming trash into treasure, you not only create charming characters but also instill a sense of environmental responsibility in the young crafters.

2. Plastic Bottle Planters

Transforming plastic bottles into colorful planters is a fantastic way to combine creativity with environmental consciousness. By upcycling these bottles, you not only add a touch of greenery to your living space but also contribute to reducing plastic waste. This craft project allows you to repurpose everyday items into functional and decorative pieces that can brighten up any room.

Creating plastic bottle planters is a simple yet rewarding process. Start by collecting empty plastic bottles of various sizes – from soda bottles to water bottles. Cut the bottles according to the desired height for your planters, keeping in mind the type of plants you want to grow. You can use scissors or a craft knife to make clean cuts.

Once you have your bottle pieces ready, it's time to get creative with decorating them. Consider painting the outside of the bottles with vibrant colors or patterns to add a personal touch. You can also use stickers, washi tape, or even decoupage techniques to embellish the planters further.

After decorating the bottles, make drainage holes at the bottom to ensure proper water flow for your plants. Fill the bottom of each planter with small rocks or pebbles to aid drainage and prevent waterlogging. Then, add potting soil and your choice of herbs, flowers, or small plants to complete your plastic bottle planters.

These DIY planters not only serve as a creative outlet but also promote sustainability by giving plastic bottles a new purpose. Display your finished planters on windowsills, shelves, or outdoor spaces to bring a touch of nature into your home while making a positive impact on the environment.

3. Newspaper Basket

Are you looking for a creative and sustainable way to repurpose old newspapers? Why not try making a newspaper basket? This eco-friendly craft not only helps reduce paper waste but also allows you to create a functional and stylish storage solution for small items around your home.

To make a newspaper basket, you will need a stack of old newspapers, glue, scissors, and a bit of creativity. Start by cutting the newspapers into long strips, then weave them together to form the base of the basket. You can create intricate patterns and designs by alternating the direction of the strips.

Once you have the base of the basket, continue weaving the newspaper strips upwards to create the sides. Make sure to secure the strips with glue as you go to keep the basket sturdy. You can also add handles or decorative elements to personalize your creation.

Not only is making a newspaper basket a fun and engaging craft project, but it also allows you to add a touch of handmade charm to your home decor. Whether you use it to store keys by the door or organize small trinkets on a shelf, your newspaper basket will be both practical and visually appealing.

4. Tin Can Wind Chimes

Tin Can Wind Chimes are a delightful craft project that combines recycling with creating beautiful outdoor decorations. By repurposing empty tin cans, you can craft unique wind chimes that not only add visual appeal to your garden but also produce soothing sounds as the wind gently moves through them.

To create your own Tin Can Wind Chimes, start by collecting a few empty tin cans of different sizes. Thoroughly clean and dry the cans to prepare them for painting and decoration. You can use acrylic paints to add vibrant colors to the cans or opt for a more rustic look with metallic spray paint.

Next, carefully punch holes in the bottom of each tin can using a hammer and nail. These holes will serve as the attachment points for the strings that will hold the chimes together. Once the cans are painted and holes are made, thread sturdy string or wire through the holes and tie them securely to create a cascading effect.

For an extra touch of charm, consider adding beads or small trinkets between the cans to create a pleasant tinkling sound when the wind blows. Hang your Tin Can Wind Chimes in a breezy spot outdoors and enjoy the melodic symphony they create as they sway in the wind.

This craft not only offers a fun and creative way to recycle tin cans but also allows you to personalize your outdoor space with a unique and eco-friendly decoration. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking for a new hobby, Tin Can Wind Chimes are a wonderful project to try your hand at.

5. Egg Carton Flowers

Are you ready to add a burst of color to your home decor with these charming Egg Carton Flowers? This craft project offers a delightful way to repurpose empty egg cartons into beautiful floral creations that will never wilt or fade. By using simple materials like paint, scissors, and a dash of creativity, you can transform ordinary egg cartons into everlasting blooms that brighten up any room.

To start, carefully cut out individual cups from the egg carton, ensuring to leave a small border around each cup to form the petals of your flowers. Next, let your imagination run wild as you paint the cups in various vibrant colors, mimicking the hues of your favorite blossoms. Consider mixing and matching different shades to create a bouquet of unique and eye-catching flowers.

Once the paint has dried, you can further embellish your Egg Carton Flowers by adding details such as glitter, buttons, or beads to the center of each bloom. These extra touches will give your flowers a touch of whimsy and personality, making them truly one-of-a-kind decorative pieces.

Arrange your finished flowers in a vase or create a charming floral wreath by attaching them to a circular base. You can also glue them onto stems made from wire or wooden skewers to create a bouquet that will never wilt and can be proudly displayed in your home year-round.

Not only are Egg Carton Flowers a fun and eco-friendly craft project, but they also serve as a wonderful opportunity to explore your artistic side and experiment with different painting techniques. Whether you're crafting solo or with the company of friends and family, creating these delightful floral creations is sure to bring joy and a sense of accomplishment.

6. CD Mosaic Coasters

Are you looking for a creative way to repurpose old CDs and add a touch of color to your home decor? Look no further than CD Mosaic Coasters! This fun and eco-friendly craft project allows you to breathe new life into outdated technology while creating unique and stylish coasters for your coffee table.

By simply breaking the CDs into small pieces and arranging them in a mosaic pattern on plain coasters, you can transform them into eye-catching pieces of functional art. The reflective surface of the CDs adds a touch of sparkle to the coasters, making them a conversation starter in any room.

Not only are CD Mosaic Coasters a great way to reduce electronic waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle, but they also provide a fun and relaxing crafting experience. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this project is suitable for all skill levels and ages.

Imagine sipping your favorite beverage while admiring the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of your handmade coasters. Each coaster tells a unique story, reflecting your creativity and commitment to environmental conservation.

So, gather your old CDs, grab some glue, and get ready to embark on a crafting journey that combines art, recycling, and functionality. With CD Mosaic Coasters, you can add a personal touch to your home while making a positive impact on the planet, one coaster at a time.

7. Plastic Lid Magnets

Looking for a fun and creative way to repurpose plastic lids? Why not try making your own Plastic Lid Magnets! This eco-friendly craft allows you to transform everyday plastic lids from jars and containers into personalized magnets that can add a touch of flair to your fridge or magnetic board.

To create these unique magnets, all you need are some plastic lids, photos, decorative paper, or paint, and magnetic strips. Start by selecting the plastic lids you want to upcycle and clean them thoroughly. Then, you can get creative by adding your personal touch to each magnet. Whether you choose to showcase favorite photos, create colorful designs with decorative paper, or simply paint the lids in vibrant hues, the possibilities are endless.

Once you have decorated the plastic lids to your liking, attach magnetic strips to the back of each lid using strong adhesive. Allow the magnets to dry completely before displaying them on your fridge or magnetic board. These custom Plastic Lid Magnets not only serve as practical tools for holding notes and memos but also double as unique decorative pieces that showcase your creativity and commitment to sustainability.

8. Paper Roll Animals

Are you ready to embark on a creative adventure with paper rolls? Let's transform those empty rolls into adorable animals that will bring a smile to your face. Gather your paints, scissors, and googly eyes as we dive into the world of paper roll animals!

Imagine turning a simple cardboard tube into a playful elephant, a majestic lion, or a colorful butterfly. With a few simple steps, you can breathe life into these creatures and create your very own paper roll zoo. It's not just about crafting; it's about unleashing your imagination and giving these humble rolls a new purpose.

Start by cutting and shaping the paper rolls to form the body of your chosen animal. Whether it's a long giraffe neck or a round panda belly, each cut brings your creation one step closer to reality. Then, grab your paints and let your creativity run wild. Add stripes, spots, or patterns to make your animal truly unique.

Don't forget the details! Use craft paper to make ears, tails, and other features that will give your paper roll animals their distinct personalities. A touch of glue here and a sprinkle of glitter there, and soon you'll have a menagerie of charming creatures ready to inhabit your home.

These paper roll animals are not just cute decorations; they are a reminder of the magic that can happen when you combine recycling with creativity. By giving new life to something as simple as a cardboard tube, you are not only reducing waste but also adding a touch of whimsy to your surroundings.

9. Glass Jar Terrariums

Explore creative and eco-friendly craft ideas using recyclable materials. From paper rolls to plastic bottles, discover how to turn trash into treasure with these engaging projects that are perfect for all ages.

Repurpose glass jars into miniature terrariums filled with tiny plants and decorative elements. Create your own little green oasis indoors while reducing waste and adding a touch of nature to your home decor.

Q: Can I use any type of glass jar for making terrariums?

A: It's best to use clear glass jars to create terrariums as they allow sunlight to enter and promote plant growth. However, you can experiment with different sizes and shapes to create unique terrarium designs.

Q: Do terrariums require a lot of maintenance?

A: Terrariums are relatively low-maintenance as they create a self-sustaining ecosystem. Just ensure they receive indirect sunlight, occasional watering, and prune any overgrown plants to keep them healthy.

Q: Can I add decorations to my terrarium?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add decorative elements like small figurines, pebbles, or colored sand to enhance the visual appeal of your terrarium. Just make sure not to overcrowd the plants to allow them space to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can these crafts be done by children?

  Yes, the crafts mentioned in this article are perfect for children of all ages. They are designed to be fun, engaging, and easy to follow, making them ideal for kids to unleash their creativity while learning about the importance of recycling.

• Are the materials for these crafts easily accessible?

  Absolutely! The materials used in these crafts are commonly found in households or can be easily sourced from local stores. From cardboard tubes to plastic bottles and old newspapers, you can easily gather the supplies needed to start creating these eco-friendly projects.

• How can these crafts contribute to sustainability?

  By repurposing recyclable materials into creative crafts, you are actively participating in reducing waste and promoting sustainability. These projects not only give new life to items that would have otherwise been discarded but also serve as a reminder of the importance of recycling and upcycling in our daily lives.