If you’re anything like me, you probably have a drawer or box overflowing with old Christmas cards—too pretty to throw out, but you’re not quite sure what to do with them. That’s why I was so excited to flip through Recycling Christmas Cards by Anneke Lipsanen. This book is a goldmine for anyone who loves eco-friendly crafting, DIY holiday projects, and finding new ways to recycle instead of tossing things in the bin.
The book is packed with 50 creative ideas for repurposing old greeting cards into beautiful and functional crafts. We’re talking handmade Christmas ornaments, recycled gift tags, upcycled decorations, and even festive garlands. As someone who loves vintage and handmade charm, these projects speak to my crafty little heart. The designs are super approachable, too—even if you’re not a seasoned paper crafter, the step-by-step instructions and full-color photos make everything easy to follow.
One of my favorite features is that it comes with 45 templates specifically designed to work with standard card sizes. That means you’re not left trying to guess measurements or eyeball layouts—just trace, cut, and create. It’s the perfect mix of structure and creativity.
What I really appreciate about this book is how it encourages a more sustainable, mindful approach to crafting. Instead of letting those beautiful cards pile up or, worse, end up in the landfill, this book shows how to recycle them into something meaningful. It’s a great reminder that recycling can be stylish, sentimental, and super fun.
Whether you’re looking to reduce waste, start some holiday traditions with the kids, or just love the idea of crafting with recycled materials, this book is a must-have. It’s one of those go-to guides you’ll pull out every December (and probably for other holidays, too). Plus, it’s a lovely way to keep the warm memories from past Christmases alive—because let’s be honest, some of those card designs are just too gorgeous to let go.
So, if you’re on a mission to craft more sustainably and get the most out of what you already have, this book totally deserves a spot on your shelf. Trust me, your craft stash—and the planet—will thank you.
