Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

100 color mixing challenge

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100 color challenge

Absolutely stunning, right? I couldn’t help but fall in love with this vibrant idea the moment I saw it. It’s called the 100 Color Mixing Challenge, and it’s not only visually captivating but also a fabulous way to learn about color theory while playing with paint. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who loves getting creative with sustainable materials, this project is a must-try.

The basic idea is simple: mix 100 unique colors using just a handful of base paints. It sounds like a challenge (and it is!), but that’s what makes it so exciting. As you experiment with combinations, you begin to really see how endless the possibilities are. It’s like discovering magic right on your palette.

What makes this even more special is how perfectly it lends itself to upcycling. Got an old wooden tray, a cardboard box, a glass jar, or even some furniture that could use a colorful refresh? Use this technique to turn discarded or outdated items into one-of-a-kind art pieces. Instead of tossing out that old table or frame, why not give it a fresh life with a burst of 100 unique colors?

The blog Teach Kids Art breaks it down beautifully and even offers a free downloadable PDF to guide you through the challenge. It’s especially great for doing with kids—turn it into a weekend project, a homeschool art lesson, or just a creative unplugged afternoon. Not only do you end up with a gorgeous piece of artwork, but your kids will also walk away with a better understanding of how colors work together.

From eco-friendly craft enthusiasts to budding young artists, this project is an inspiring reminder that sustainability and creativity go hand in hand. Paint, reuse, and play—because the most beautiful things are often the ones we make with what we already have.

I am sure there are different ways to do it but over at the blog Teach Kids Art there is a nice guideline and a downloadable pdf for the 100 color mixing project so you and your kids can try out this fun art making project.

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Making Popsicle Stick Playing Cards – Surprisingly Fun and Totally Charming!

Okay, I’ll be honest — when I first saw the Popsicle Stick Playing Cards project floating around on Instructables, I wasn’t entirely sold. Popsicle sticks and playing cards? Sounds like a summer camp throwback, right? But curiosity got the best of me (as it usually does with anything slightly crafty and slightly quirky), and I decided to give it a whirl.

And let me just say: I loved this project way more than I expected to.

At its core, this DIY is super simple. You’re basically fusing old playing cards with humble craft sticks to create chunky, tactile “cards” that are durable enough for little hands — or just to enjoy as a cool novelty set. The end result? A full deck that feels a little bit rustic, a little bit retro, and totally unique.

What I really appreciated about this project was how accessible it was. You don’t need anything fancy to get started — just some basic glue, scissors, popsicle sticks (standard size worked fine for me), and of course, a deck of cards that’s either past its prime or missing a few members. We all have one of those lying around somewhere, right?

I ended up using an old UNO deck that was looking pretty rough around the edges, and it turned out great. The cards stick well to the wood, and once everything’s dry, you get these sturdy, chunky pieces that have such a fun hand-feel. It almost reminds me of vintage tile games or big wooden dominoes.

This would be such a great project for kids — whether it’s as a rainy-day craft, a classroom activity, or even as part of a DIY learning game (think memory matching or number recognition). I can see this also being a hit with older adults or people who need cards with a little more grip or visual clarity.

Plus, if you’re a DIY gift-giver like I am, imagine pairing these with a handmade fabric pouch or wooden box for a personalized twist. It would make a really thoughtful and low-cost present for a game lover or nostalgic friend.

Now, one tiny tip: make sure to let everything dry completely before stacking or using them. I rushed a bit on my first batch and ended up with a few cards stuck together. A bit of sanding or sealing would probably help prevent that too, especially if you want them to last.

Overall, this craft hit all the right notes — easy, upcycled, fun, and surprisingly satisfying to hold in your hands when they’re done. It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into something old, and I honestly can’t wait to make a few themed sets as gifts.

So if you’re on the fence, give it a try. It’s playful, it’s practical, and hey, it might just be your new favorite weekend project.