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

  3. I’m always looking for new ideas for upcycling and reusing old and vintage jewelry. This book looks fantastic … I’d love to win! Thank you so much for the chance!!

  10. I love to up-cycle purses, wallets and coin purses. I would love some new and fresh ideas. What a winning gift this would be!!!

  17. Every time I go to the thrift store I look for items I can recycle; belts, sweaters, t-shirts, etc.; I would love to win this book so I can use up my stash! Thanks for the chance!!

  18. Wow, this is a totally awesome book! I love upcycling/recycling things! That belt on the front cover looks amazing!

  19. I would like to win a book. I am always looking for ways to re- purpose items around the house.

  20. I too, just love upcycling items, wish we had a Goodwill close to me, although maybe that wouldn’t be a good idea, lol.

  30. I love the belt on the cover of the book. If you haven’t purchased a belt recently you are in for sticker shock. Make your own and save money.

  37. I am from Mumbai, India and would love to win this book as I firmly believe in saving the environment – reduce, recycle and reuse. Sabita Frances

  45. I love to recycle. Anything we can keep out of the landfills is better for Mother Earth and all of us.

  46. I would love a copy of this book. I have been collecting old jeans, sweaters, belts and such to make some bags. I love the idea of refashioning. Thanks for a great giveaway!

  47. My husband has terminal cancer and I am getting him into trying some new things. This sounds like it could have some good projects for us to do

  50. Count me in I love making something from “nothing” . One mans trash well you know how it goes. Thank you for the chance. Becky

Have you read?

Making Popsicle Stick Playing Cards – Surprisingly Fun and Totally Charming!

Okay, I’ll be honest — when I first saw the Popsicle Stick Playing Cards project floating around on Instructables, I wasn’t entirely sold. Popsicle sticks and playing cards? Sounds like a summer camp throwback, right? But curiosity got the best of me (as it usually does with anything slightly crafty and slightly quirky), and I decided to give it a whirl.

And let me just say: I loved this project way more than I expected to.

At its core, this DIY is super simple. You’re basically fusing old playing cards with humble craft sticks to create chunky, tactile “cards” that are durable enough for little hands — or just to enjoy as a cool novelty set. The end result? A full deck that feels a little bit rustic, a little bit retro, and totally unique.

What I really appreciated about this project was how accessible it was. You don’t need anything fancy to get started — just some basic glue, scissors, popsicle sticks (standard size worked fine for me), and of course, a deck of cards that’s either past its prime or missing a few members. We all have one of those lying around somewhere, right?

I ended up using an old UNO deck that was looking pretty rough around the edges, and it turned out great. The cards stick well to the wood, and once everything’s dry, you get these sturdy, chunky pieces that have such a fun hand-feel. It almost reminds me of vintage tile games or big wooden dominoes.

This would be such a great project for kids — whether it’s as a rainy-day craft, a classroom activity, or even as part of a DIY learning game (think memory matching or number recognition). I can see this also being a hit with older adults or people who need cards with a little more grip or visual clarity.

Plus, if you’re a DIY gift-giver like I am, imagine pairing these with a handmade fabric pouch or wooden box for a personalized twist. It would make a really thoughtful and low-cost present for a game lover or nostalgic friend.

Now, one tiny tip: make sure to let everything dry completely before stacking or using them. I rushed a bit on my first batch and ended up with a few cards stuck together. A bit of sanding or sealing would probably help prevent that too, especially if you want them to last.

Overall, this craft hit all the right notes — easy, upcycled, fun, and surprisingly satisfying to hold in your hands when they’re done. It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into something old, and I honestly can’t wait to make a few themed sets as gifts.

So if you’re on the fence, give it a try. It’s playful, it’s practical, and hey, it might just be your new favorite weekend project.