Back-to-School Notebooks: Part 1

If you’ve got a pile of old playing cards sitting around — maybe they’re from incomplete decks, game nights gone wild, or just worn from use — don’t throw them out! Instead, consider turning those old playing cards into clever DIY projects. Playing cards are the perfect material for upcycled crafts thanks to their glossy finish, durability, and instantly recognizable designs. Whether you’re looking for sustainable craft ideas, eco-friendly decor, or handmade gifts, recycled playing card projects offer endless creative potential.

Recycling playing cards is a fantastic way to reduce waste and embrace a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Crafting with old playing cards is not only budget-friendly, it’s also a great opportunity to create unique home decor, personalized gifts, and fun DIY accessories. From upcycled wallets and purses to holiday ornaments and party banners, these projects make excellent use of something you’d otherwise toss in the trash. And the best part? Many of these playing card crafts can be done with supplies you already have at home.

Crafters around the world are discovering how easy it is to transform playing cards into DIY masterpieces. Want to make a recycled playing card wreath? Looking for a way to craft a handmade Valentine’s Day garland? Curious how to create a one-of-a-kind playing card clock or a quirky jewelry holder? Old playing cards are the answer. Their size, sturdiness, and vintage appeal make them ideal for crafting everything from bookmarks and gift tags to photo frames and tabletop decorations.

These upcycled playing card projects are perfect for holiday decorating too. Create a festive playing card Christmas tree, fold a deck into a Valentine’s Day heart wreath, or string together a DIY party banner for a casino-themed birthday bash. Playing cards lend themselves to all kinds of seasonal creativity, and the results are always charming and memorable. If you love making holiday decorations from recycled materials, don’t skip over that forgotten deck in your junk drawer!

Looking to get organized with your crafting? Try making a DIY playing card storage box or a desk organizer. Their compact size makes playing cards ideal for crafting stylish and functional items like ribbon holders, mini drawers, or office accessories. Want to go even further? Some crafters have even made earring holders, pencil cases, and tabletops using nothing but recycled playing cards and a little creative flair.

This is also a fantastic way to involve kids in upcycled crafting. Reusing playing cards for kids’ craft projects is fun, mess-free, and educational. Encourage them to make DIY bookmarks, garlands, or memory games using old cards. Not only does this teach creativity and motor skills, it also introduces the value of reusing and recycling materials in everyday life.

Crafting with vintage or recycled playing cards also makes for meaningful gift ideas. From a “52 Reasons I Love You” card flipbook to DIY wallets, photo displays, or trinket boxes, handmade gifts made from upcycled materials show thoughtfulness and care. These unique keepsakes are perfect for anniversaries, holidays, and just-because moments.

With the rising popularity of sustainable living and zero-waste crafting, upcycling playing cards has become a go-to choice for eco-friendly creatives. Whether you’re making a repurposed playing card chandelier, a recycled playing card lampshade, or simple DIY gift tags, there’s no shortage of ideas when it comes to turning old playing cards into new treasures.

So if you’re on the hunt for recycled craft ideas, DIY playing card projects, or eco-friendly handmade gifts, it’s time to dig out those old decks and start creating. With over 45 inspiring ways to reuse playing cards, you’ll never look at your game night leftovers the same way again.

Ready to start your next upcycling adventure? Explore the world of playing card crafts and discover how to transform your clutter into creativity — one card at a time.

Playing Card Wallet — CraftBits.com

Clear Duct Tape Card Purse — CraftBits.com

Turn old playing cards into decorative elements – Recycled Crafts

I “Heart” heart Valentine’s Day wreaths – Recycled Crafts

Ribbon Organizers

DIY Valentines Wreath • Refresh Living

paper craft – folded decorative playing card houses – full instructions

DIY UNO Card Game Art – One Mile Home Style

Upcycling Playing Cards – craftygardener.ca

DIY Handmade Storage Box

M Is for Memories

12-Card Star — George Hart