Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Book Review and WIN a copy of Eco Books: Inventive Projects from the Recycling Bin

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I love this book! As someone who can look at virtually any bit of this or that and find value (or at least an attribute that would make it a good crafting material) Eco Books: Inventive Projects from the Recycling Bin is packed full of innovative designs and interesting construction methods for all sorts of books. There are a bunch of great tutorials showing how to incorporate traditional stitching and binding techniques with wild and crazy-cool ideas for using them with unconventional materials. I point out the egg carton book featured on the cover! Lark Books, the fabulous publisher of this book has offered you readers of Recycled Craft Gossip the chance to WIN a copy of  Eco Books: Inventive Projects from the Recycling Bin. Just leave a comment in today’s post by Midnight ET Wednesday November 10th and you are in the running!

And if you want to see a project I made inspired by the book pop on over here for a mini notebook petal bracelet tutorial.

More about the book from Lark Books:

Eco Books: Inventive Projects from the Recycling Bin

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Terry Taylor

“Here are projects for the “pages”: 40 innovative book-making ideas using recycled and green materials! More than just earth-friendly, they’re also beautiful, clever, and witty, stitched with traditional binding techniques.  Egg cartons, wood, beer cans, and cassette tapes morph into covers, while brown bags, coffee filters, and discarded newspapers are transformed into pages. Create a boxed set of cereal box books, an exposed stitch sketchbook out of cardboard and remnants, and even a faux leather journal made from teabags.

In addition to how-to drawings, close-up detail photographs, and simple stitch diagrams, a gallery of eco-books from an international roster of artists provides inspiration.”

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Woolie and Furry Upcycled Slippers by Made By Barb

If you’re a fan of cozy, sustainable crafting, the Woolie & Furry Upcycled Slippers tutorial by Made By Barb is a must-try. This project combines creativity, comfort, and eco-consciousness, resulting in a pair of slippers that are both stylish and functional.

What Makes These Slippers Special?

Barb’s approach to slipper-making is rooted in upcycling, using materials like old Ugg boots, vintage wool blankets, and shearling from repurposed jackets. This not only gives new life to items that might otherwise be discarded but also ensures that each pair of slippers is unique. The use of thick, doubled wool provides substantial warmth and durability, making these slippers ideal for chilly mornings or lounging at home.

The Crafting Process

The tutorial is detailed and accessible, guiding you through each step with clear instructions and helpful tips. Barb introduces the concept of free-motion sewing, encouraging you to “doodle with a sewing machine” to create quilted patterns on the wool. This technique adds a personal touch to the slippers and enhances their texture. The pattern is designed for women’s size 8.5–9 feet but can be easily adjusted for different sizes by printing at a slightly smaller scale.

Materials You’ll Need

  • Old Ugg boots or shearling jackets

  • Vintage virgin wool blankets

  • Free-motion sewing foot for your sewing machine

  • Waxed thread and a strong needle

  • Contact cement for attaching soles

  • A pair of old sandals or flip-flops for the base

 

The Woolie & Furry Upcycled Slippers tutorial by Made By Barb is a delightful project for anyone interested in sustainable crafting. The slippers are not only warm and comfortable but also a testament to the beauty of upcycling. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or create a thoughtful gift, this tutorial provides all the guidance you need to craft a pair of cozy slippers that are as unique as they are functional.

For the full tutorial and free pattern, visit Made By Barb. Happy crafting!