Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Book Review: Return of The Stupid Sock Creatures

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return of the stupid sock creature book

Do you like it when the things you create make you smile and laugh every time you look at them? That is just what every single page of Return of the Stupid Sock Creature does! If you dive into the quirky, hilarious world of Return of the Stupid Sock Creatures, I can almost guarantee you’ll be laughing the entire time—whether you’re following the instructions step-by-step or simply using them as inspiration to stitch up your own outrageous creatures from recycled socks and scraps. This book is overflowing with personality and creativity, and it inspired me to create something extra silly for my beloved crew of Aminekos.

I took a page (or a few stitches) from one of the book’s wildly imaginative projects and gave my Aminekos a bold new look using a pair of old gloves. The result? A rockin’ new ‘do that had me giggling non-stop! Curious what that looks like? Pop over to Sweater Surgery and check it out—you might just be inspired to give your own handmade creatures a style upgrade too.

Here’s a bit more about the book from Lark Crafts:

Return of the Stupid Sock Creatures
By John Murphy

They’re back—and they’re more ridiculously adorable than ever! In this follow-up to Stupid Sock Creatures, John Murphy teams up with guest designers to bring you 20 delightfully deranged sock creations. From two-headed beasts to wild-eyed monsters and quirky quadrupeds, these characters push the boundaries of weird in the most wonderful ways. Whether you’re working with a single sock or going all out with a four-sock masterpiece, there’s a project here for every level of crafter.

Don’t worry if you’re new to creature-making—John’s clear instructions and playful tone make everything feel approachable (even Piethagorus, the pie-loving creature that’s only slightly intimidating).

John Murphy, the creative mind behind Stupid Creatures, has been making oddball plush monsters since 2003. His creations have been featured in ReadyMade magazine and the Washington Post, and he’s taught workshops across the country. When he’s not crafting bizarre beasts, John works as a counselor for at-risk youth—a role he’s as passionate about as he is his monster-making. Check out more of his creations at stupidcreatures.com.

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Book Review: Upcycle: 24 Sustainable DIY Projects – Eco-Friendly Design Meets Crafty Creativity

upcycled furniture

If you’re someone who finds joy in transforming the old into something new, then Upcycle by Rebecca Proctor is a must-have for your creative bookshelf. This visually rich book is not your average recycled crafts guide—it’s a stylish celebration of eco-conscious design and modern sustainability through hands-on creativity.

The book highlights 24 innovative upcycling projects, all crafted by contemporary designers. Each project turns discarded or everyday materials into stunning, functional items. From furniture made with pallets to light fixtures created from repurposed plastics, the book challenges you to think differently about waste—and what it can become.

As someone who’s always looking for recycled home decor inspiration and ways to reduce landfill waste through crafting, I found this book incredibly refreshing. It’s not just about crafting for fun (although it is fun!)—it’s about mindful making. The focus on design-led upcycling means the projects are genuinely beautiful, not just cobbled together. These pieces could easily fit into a modern home or creative studio.

What I loved most was the way each designer shares the story behind their materials and their process, reminding us that there’s a narrative behind every reused object. The photography is bold and professional, making this book not just a tutorial guide, but also an inspiring coffee table book for fellow eco-conscious makers.

Upcycle is a creative manifesto for sustainable living, perfect for artists, designers, and DIY lovers who believe in the power of reuse. Whether you’re repurposing for the planet or simply love the beauty of unique handmade pieces, this book will leave you full of ideas.