Recycled crafts
turn something old into something new and fabulous.
Recycling is fun, especially when taking an old item and turning it into a fabulous new item. The only thing needed is a little creativity. Recycled crafts are great for adults and children. For parents or teachers, recycled crafts are a great way to teach children about being good environmental stewards while having fun crafting.
T-Shirt Pillow
Everyone has a collection of old T-shirts. Some are more difficult to throw out than others, especially if they are associated with a memorable event. A fun way to recycle those old T-shirts, especially for children and teens is to turn them into throw pillows. Simply sew the collar together, sew each sleeve closed and then stuff the body of the T-shirt with poly-fil polyester stuffing, which is found at most fabric and craft stores. Play with the poly-fil until the pillow has a good shape and the sew the bottom of the T-shirt closed.
CD Sun Catcher
Most everyone has old CDs laying around. CDs reflect light well and make wonderfully decorative sun catchers. Take old CDs and loop a piece of yarn or cord through the center. Decorate the CDs with a variety of paint in addition to gluing glitter and plastic gems, which you can find at the local craft store, to make the sun catcher fun. Hang in a bright window or on the back porch and watch the way the sun catcher reflects sunlight. For longer sun catchers, tie additional CDs together using yarn or cord, play around with CDs and glue them into a fan shape or, using hot glue, attach pieces of thread with hanging gems to the bottom of each CD.
Coffee Can Bank
Coffee cans are easily recycled into a fun bank for children. With the help of an adult, turn the can on its side and cut a 2-inch slot in the center side of the can. Depending on the thickness of the metal on the can, either strong utility scissors or wire snips are a good choice for cutting the slot. Use duct tape to tape the edges of the slot to make sure there are no sharp edges exposed. Place the lid on the can. Once the preparation work has been completed, allow children to paint the can in whatever color they choose. Pink works well for a pig, white works well for a polar bear and yellow works well for a lion. After the bank is dry, children will use construction paper, chenille stems and additional paint to turn the can into a fun animal bank.
Jean Pocket Purse
Old jeans are a perfect fit for recycled crafts. Choose a pair of old jeans with decorative pockets. With a seam ripper, remove the back pockets. With good sides facing out, sew the pockets together around the side edges and bottom, leaving the top edge open. Choose a fun decorative 1/2-inch thick ribbon cut in two 18-inch lengths. Sew a ribbon on the two top corners of the pocket and tie a bow in the ribbons to make a shoulder strap. The pocket has now been converted into a fun purse that any young girl will enjoy carrying.
Tags: works well, bank children, crafts great, pockets With, recycled crafts