Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Giveaway: 3 copies of Upcycled Jewelry: Bags, Belts, and More

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upcycled jewelry bags belts moreToday I have an extra special giveaway, Cico Books has provided 3 copies of the book Upcycled Jewelry: Bags, Belts, and More by Linda Peterson to giveaway to you lucky Craft Gossip readers. Leave a comment in today’s post by February 14th, 2015 and you will be in the running for this super creative and innovative book.

I have seen a lot of recycled jewelry and accessories in my day as it’s one of my all time faves to make but in this new book there are a whole bunch of projects that feature really innovative techniques. There are quite a few projects as well that feature materials I have never seen used in such unique and pretty ways! If you like this kind of thing I bet you will be as inspired as I am.

More about the book:

Upcycle to create 35 stunning pieces of jewellery and accessories. Discover how to take something that was destined for the rubbish bin and give it a new purpose, transforming it into something beautiful. Expert crafter Linda Peterson shows you 35 creative ways to upcycle ring pulls from drinks cans, zips, plastic, bike chains, tyre tubes and more. From a stylish ring pull belt to a pretty gold zip bracelet, and from stamped plastic earrings to a chunky bike chain bangle, there’s plenty here to inspire you to get crafting. Every project has clear step-by-step photographs to guide you, and a basic techniques section covers all you’ll need to know.

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Comments

  5. I’m always looking for ways to use all these bits I have laying around. This book looks perfect!

  8. I love to use belts as embellishments on the bags I make. Vintage shops are my new go to place to find some great ones. Would loved to see how they are used in the book.

  10. This book speaks to my heart. I’m always looking to re-purpose items I come across.
    I hope to win a copy.
    Angie

  11. Love the ideas.i make crsfts out of recycled objects..and everything in my home or or in our yard is made from refurbished items..

  13. Upcycling is such a great way to repurpose items and create such unique and individual treasures. I’d love a copy of this book!

  17. I’m in charge of the craft during VBS at St. Paul Lutheran Church every summer. Every year I make sure we make a craft from recycled items. The kids love to see what we can make out of what they call junk. Would love to win your book!!!!!

  19. I would love to win this cos i have a whole lot of junk in my house n i love recycling 🙂

  20. I also want to learn these innovative methods to create jewelry from Linda. I hope I am not too late and would be considered as one of the contenders.

  26. Sound likeso much fun, I use od ties & incorporate into clutches and other items, love to see what else can be done with cast-offs (treasures).

  36. Would love to make things while recycling products…this book is awesome!! Thanks for the chance to win!

  37. I’ve been recycling all kinds of stuff for years, but this book takes it to an higher level-JEWELRY-love to win a copy!!!!!!

  39. Ooo – what a fun book this has to be! I am SO in my happy element when upcycling cast-off stuff, of all kinds. I grew up w/ a creative mom who did this & taught it to us. I’d be so blessed to win a copy of this cool book. Thanks for the giveaway & Happy Valentine’s to all!! 🙂

  42. I love the concept of reusing things I already have and would love the book for more ideas. Thanks for the chance

  43. I loooove upcycling! It’s both economically and environmentally responsible, and it allows a crafter to flex different creativity muscles than crafting from scratch. Would love a chance to win this book!

  44. I am a recycling crafter and newbie to this site. I am really using all of this site’s ideas to motivate and inspire me. Thank you Craftgossip.

  49. I love making jewelry, especially with upcycled materials. I even made a crocheted pull tab belt once.

Have you read?

DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with Rustic Stems – Upcycled Farmhouse Decor

If you love sunflowers but wish they could last longer than a week in a vase, I have just the project for you. With a handful of thrifted mason jar lids, a little paint, and a dash of creativity, you can make your own DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with rustic stems — the kind that brighten your home all year long.

This project blends farmhouse charm with eco-friendly upcycling, making it perfect for crafters who love to give old materials a new life. Whether you display them in a vase, turn them into a wreath, or pop them into potted plants, these handmade sunflowers bring sunshine into any space.

Why You’ll Love This Sunflower Craft

  • Budget-friendly: Most supplies can be thrifted, recycled, or found at home. 
  • Customisable: Change the petal colour, stem style, or centre texture to suit your dĂ©cor. 
  • Durable dĂ©cor: Unlike fresh flowers, these won’t wilt or fade. 
  • Eco-conscious: A clever way to upcycle mason jar lids and scrap fabric. 

Supplies You’ll Need

To make your own mason jar lid sunflowers, gather these simple materials:

  • Mason jar rings (any size – thrifted or recycled) 
  • Yellow spray paint or acrylic craft paint 
  • Brown felt, burlap, or textured fabric for the flower centres 
  • Hot glue gun and glue sticks 
  • Wooden dowels, sticks, or recycled chopsticks for stems 
  • Green floral tape or green craft paint 
  • Optional: raffia, ribbon, faux greenery, grapevine wreath form 

Step-by-Step: How to Make DIY Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers with Rustic Stems

Step 1: Prep Your Mason Jar Lids

Wash and dry the lids thoroughly. If they have rust spots, give them a quick sanding for a smooth surface. This will help your paint adhere better.

Step 2: Paint the Petals

Lay out your lids on newspaper or cardboard. Spray paint them in a bright sunflower yellow. Two light coats give the best coverage.
 Tip: For a more natural, layered look, dry-brush with mustard or orange tones after the base coat dries.

Step 3: Create the Sunflower Centre

Cut a circle of brown felt, burlap, or textured fabric slightly larger than the inner opening of the lid.
 For extra detail, glue on small black buttons, beads, or seeds for a realistic sunflower centre.

Step 4: Assemble the Flower

Flip the lid over and hot glue the centre fabric to the back so it fills the ring’s opening.
 Press firmly to make sure it’s secure — especially if you’re making these for a wreath or outdoor display.

Step 5: Add the Stem

Glue a wooden dowel, twig, or recycled chopstick to the back of the lid.
 Wrap the stem in green floral tape for a smooth, finished look — or leave a twig unwrapped for a more rustic, natural style.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Tie a bow of raffia or ribbon around the stem. Glue on a couple of faux leaves for extra charm.
 If you’re making a bouquet, vary the stem lengths for a more natural arrangement.

Creative Ways to Use Your Mason Jar Lid Sunflowers

  • Rustic Vase Display: Arrange several sunflowers in a ceramic jug or glass mason jar. 
  • Farmhouse Wreath: Glue the flowers to a grapevine wreath form and hang on your front door. 
  • Garden Accents: Seal with an outdoor spray and stake in flower beds or planters. 
  • Gift Toppers: Make mini sunflowers for wrapping embellishments or party favours. 

 Tips for the Best Results

  • Use different jar ring sizes for varied petal shapes in your bouquet. 
  • Dry-brush the petal edges with orange paint for added depth and realism. 
  • Mix in a few “wild” stems with curled raffia or greenery for a fuller, more natural look. 

The Beauty of Upcycling

This DIY mason jar lid sunflower craft is proof that everyday items — even something as humble as a jar lid — can become something extraordinary.
 It’s not just about making something pretty; it’s about crafting something with a story, saving materials from the bin, and adding a burst of joy to your home.

So next time you spot a box of old jar lids at a thrift store, don’t pass them by. Pick them up and turn them into sunshine that never fades.