Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Raw Crafts: 40 Projects from Hemp, Jute, Burlap, and Cork

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raw crafts by Denise Corcoran book review image

If you’re a fan of eco-friendly crafts and sustainable living, Raw Crafts by Denise Corcoran is an inspiring guide that taps into the growing trend of using natural materials in crafting. From hemp and jute to cork and burlap, this book introduces 40 creative projects that make the most of these versatile, earth-friendly materials.

The book is divided into clear and easy-to-follow sections, each focusing on different types of raw materials. Corcoran walks you through an impressive variety of projects, ranging from home decor items like pillows, woven bowls, and rugs to accessories such as tote bags, jewelry, and toys. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, there’s something for everyone, and the projects are suitable for different skill levels.

What makes Raw Crafts stand out is its emphasis on sustainable crafting with materials that are not only beautiful but also kind to the planet. Hemp, jute, burlap, and cork are all natural, biodegradable, and abundant, making them perfect choices for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Corcoran also includes tips for personalizing your projects with techniques like dyeing, printing, beading, and embroidery. These add a unique touch to your creations, allowing you to express your style while staying true to the raw, natural aesthetic.

 

Love working with recycled items? Check out this amazing recycled Crafts book.

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Comments

  19. I love prim/rustic/country decor and this book would fit right in with my craft making. Would love to win!

  21. “Oh what fun – it is to win – this book real soon someday!” LOVE the natural materials vibe of all these items. Looks like a great resource for lots of craft/gift-making applications. Thanks for the giveaway & a blessed Christmas to all! 🙂

  22. I would love to win this book. I am a volunteer who runs two craft groups for seniors and I’m always looking for simple, inexpensive ideas.

  31. I love all the burlap crafts I’ve been seeing. Would love to have this book! Thanks for the chance to win.

Have you read?

DIY Kids Craft Project – Upcycled Cardboard Box Sandcastle

kids-upcycled-cardboard-sandcastle

Looking for a creative way to keep the kids entertained this summer without spending a fortune? Turn your trash into treasure with this fun Recycled Sandcastle Craft Project! Using cardboard boxes, plastic lids, glue, and a bit of imagination, kids can build their very own sandcastle kingdom – no beach required!

 

What You’ll Need:

  • Cardboard boxes (cereal, tissue, shipping boxes – any size)

  • Toilet paper rolls or paper towel tubes

  • Plastic lids (yogurt containers, jar tops, etc.)

  • Paper or plastic straws, twigs, or sticks

  • Scrap plastic, paper, or fabric for flags

  • Craft glue or a hot glue gun (with adult supervision)

  • Scissors

  • Sand or beige paint (optional for decoration)

  • Markers, stickers, or leftover craft supplies to decorate

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Recyclables

Head to your recycling bin and pull out clean items that could work as castle parts—boxes for walls, tubes for towers, and lids for turrets. Cut down the boxes into smaller sections if needed, and make sure everything is dry and ready to work with.

Step 2: Plan Your Castle Layout

Before gluing anything down, lay out your castle design on a flat surface. Decide where the towers, walls, and “gate” will go. You can make it symmetrical, or go wild with a quirky kingdom layout!

Step 3: Glue the Main Structure Together

Use craft glue (or hot glue if you’re working with older kids or want faster drying). Start attaching the boxes and tubes together to form the base of your sandcastle. Stack tubes on top of boxes to create turrets. Use plastic lids as domes or roof tops.

Step 4: Add Decorative Elements

This is where the fun begins! Use:

  • Bottle caps as windows or shields

  • Buttons as faux stones

  • Cutout shapes from scrap cardboard for castle doors or battlements (those square-topped castle walls!) Get creative with what you’ve got – there’s no wrong way to build your dream castle.

Step 5: Make and Add Flags

Cut small triangles or flags from scrap plastic, fabric, or colored paper. Tape or glue these to the tops of straws, sticks, or twigs. Then, glue them onto the tops of towers or castle corners. You can even personalize each flag with a coat of arms or your child’s initials!

Step 6: Add the “Sand” Effect (Optional)

For an authentic look, brush glue over the castle and sprinkle it with craft sand. No sand on hand? Use beige paint, or mix some flour with a pinch of cinnamon for a sandy texture.

Step 7: Let it Dry and Display!

Let everything dry completely—especially if you’ve used a lot of glue. Then proudly display your recycled sandcastle on a shelf, or use it as part of imaginative play time.

Bonus Ideas:

  • Build a whole sandcastle village and connect them with paper bridges.

  • Make tiny “people” out of clothespins or paper scraps.

  • Add fairy lights inside for a magical castle glow at night.

This project is a fantastic way to keep little hands busy and teach kids the value of reusing materials. Plus, it’s just plain fun! Whether you’re doing this at home, in a classroom, or at a summer camp, your recycled sandcastles are sure to be a hit.