Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Aluminum Mini Trays

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cantray.jpgUsing only a pair of scissors, Instructables member xavtek has been making these mini trays from aluminum cans for years. They’re meant to be used as ashtrays, but they function just as well as jewelry holders, soap dishes, spare change keepers, sorters for your beads, snaps and brads … the list goes on.

I’ve seen a few other similar trays, but I think the key to making one as perfect as this one is cutting as many petals as possible, as consistently as possible, as well as making the folds consistent. (You’ll see what I mean when you look at the tutorial.) My only suggestion? Throw a pair of protective gloves into the mix. Ouch!

[tags]recycled cans, aluminum cans, ashtray, tray[/tags]

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Comments

  2. Good question, Heather. I haven’t made one of these yet, but I am guessing that some of the edges are still exposed, so I wouldn’t recommend having these within the reach of small children or gnawing pets.

Have you read?

I Found a Table Made from Mannequin Legs—and I’m Still Not Over It

 

manequin table recycled

Okay, I have to tell you about one of the most bizarre-yet-brilliant DIYs I’ve come across in a while. While scrolling through google (as one does when deep into a late-night upcycling rabbit hole), I stumbled on a video tutorial for a table made out of mannequin legs. And honestly? I couldn’t look away.

This project is peak creative chaos—in the best way. The concept is exactly what it sounds like: four mannequin legs, flipped and fixed in place, supporting a standard tabletop. It’s got this quirky, surreal vibe that makes it feel part high fashion, part modern art installation. Think: Tim Burton meets IKEA.

What I loved most about this video is how surprisingly accessible it is. The creator breaks the process down clearly—so even though the end result looks totally wild, the steps are manageable. You’ll need a few tools and a decent amount of glue or screws (depending on how permanent you want this table to be), but nothing too technical.

Design-wise, this piece is an absolute conversation starter. It would look amazing in a creative studio, a funky coffee shop, or even as a statement piece in a minimalist home—anywhere you want to break the “normal furniture” mold. The contrast between the realistic mannequin legs and a basic tabletop is just the right kind of weird.

If you’re into recycled home decor, eco-conscious DIY projects, or just love adding some unexpected personality to your space, this one’s worth bookmarking. Whether or not you ever make it yourself, it’s guaranteed to make you see mannequins—and furniture—in a whole new way.

Catch the full tutorial and see the visual magic for yourself on Recyclart. Just be prepared to say, “Wait, is that a leg?” every time someone visits your house.