Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Button and sequin ornament Christmas decoration

by

Christmas decorations that can also display a pretty card or photo are a great choice for crafting projects. And a super-fun way to customize blank wood objects is with a coat of paint and pretty colored sequins and beads from Buttons Galore and More!

First step is figuring out your color palette I loved the minty green buttons in the Yuletide Greetings buttons mix and I thought they’d look good sprinkled about the large ball area of the ornament decoration.

I painted the raw wood with Folk Art pearl, gold, silver and pink paint.

Once everything was painted and dried I glued the mint buttons, the silver cap and the pink band onto the base.

I coated the gold star with glue and sprinkled the 28 Lilac Lane Premium Sequins Metallic Mix Gold on it.

I picked out a few large silver sequins and placed them on the top cap.

The pink band was embellished with an iridescent mix.

This ornament comes with a wire swirl that is perfect for holding cards like this one from the Crafter’s Companion Christmas Past Luxury Card Collection.

I further embellished the wire with a little bow of tulle that I glued on a few gold star sequins.

Have you read?

Handmade with a Past: Tuesday’s Top Recycled Etsy Find

Today’s pick is a charming Handmade Upcycled Vintage Tea Towel, and it’s the perfect way to incorporate a bit of nostalgia and sustainability into your home. Upcycled from vintage tea towels, this piece transforms the old into something functional and beautiful—making it a great addition to your kitchen or a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates unique, eco-friendly items.

Each towel has its own story, having been carefully repurposed into something entirely new, and that’s part of the magic. Not only are you giving a second life to vintage materials, but you’re also embracing a style that’s completely different from anything mass-produced.

Why this is a must-have:

  • Upcycled vintage tea towels, each with its own unique character

  • A perfect blend of sustainability and creativity for any home

  • Great for adding a cozy, eco-conscious touch to your kitchen or as a personalized gift

Personally, I’ve always loved the idea of upcycling old textiles, and this handmade towel does just that. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and full of character. It’s amazing how something as simple as a vintage towel can be transformed into something new and meaningful!