Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure
If you know what these are than you probably have them in your family attic somewhere. My parents are currently learning how to use the equipment to convert them into digital images and then the slides will be winging their way to me to craft with and this is so on my to-do list! Steven James designed this cool slide lampshade for ReadyMade and the full directions are posted there.
Looking for lampshades? Check out these lampshades handmade on Etsy.
I recently stumbled across this super creative project on Instructables – “Face With Recycled Paper Cylinders” – and I had to share it with you all because it’s just the kind of craft that checks all my favorite boxes: recycled materials, hands-on creativity, and fun for literally any age.
The idea is simple but genius—roll strips of recycled paper (think junk mail, old magazines, leftover printer paper) into cylinders, then arrange and glue them to form a unique abstract face. You can make it funky, realistic, Picasso-inspired—whatever your mood or style dictates!
What I really love is the blend of eco-conscious crafting with true artistic expression. This isn’t just another kids’ project—it’s something you could easily do with a group of little ones, a classroom full of teens, or even as an adult art therapy or weekend wind-down activity. It’s super relaxing and surprisingly satisfying seeing all those paper rolls come together to form something new and expressive.
The tutorial itself is easy to follow, with plenty of visuals to guide you along the way. You don’t need any fancy materials—just glue, paper, scissors, and a board or piece of cardboard to serve as your canvas.
I also appreciate how this project leaves so much room for personalization. Want to make it into a full face? Go for it. Prefer to focus on a single eye or mouth? Totally works. You can even play with color schemes by choosing papers with a certain palette, or painting over them once they’re rolled.
In short: this is a total keeper for anyone who loves crafting with purpose. It’s the kind of project that sparks creativity while gently reinforcing the idea that beautiful things can come from what we usually throw away.
Highly recommend giving it a go—solo or with a group. And if you try it, tag me or drop a pic—I’d love to see your recycled masterpiece!
This Lighting project has a unique glow. Does it have a specific bulb that makes it glow like that?
I love your site 🙂 Recycled items can be transformed into meaningful and beautiful pieces of furniture. Recycled items reduce the VOCs that are released indoors because the item has already off gassed the majority of chemicals. So these items keep indoor air cleaner and us healthier 🙂
WOW! You did great! The lamp glows that it shows how beautiful family you have. A refreshing way and style as well.
WORD 😀 l0l i LOOOOOVE that word 😛 but i say it alll gangsta like! copY me every0ne 🙂 🙂