Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Baking with Blue Jeans + Procrastinators Wanted

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macgyver.jpgOld denim has been repurposed into many crafty things, but these simple pot holders by Canadian crafter Lise Farynowski caught my eye (OK, they actually caught the eyes of ReadyMade editors as they were sorting through the entries of their latest monthly reader’s challenge, aka the “MacGyver Challenge”). See Lise’s instructions to create a pair of your own.

And for those of you who find themselves working at the last minute, try your hand at ReadyMade’s latest challenge, Dead Pens, that asks readers to craft something from the oodles of used disposable writing pens in this world. Deadline is July 31, and the winner receives a ReadyMade subscription, T-shirt and mention in an upcoming issue. Read rules and other details at http://readymademag.com/feature_29_macgyver.php.

 

Looking for more ways to use Recycled Denim in craft projects?

Check out this book featuring 10 other ways to use Denim jeans.

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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.