Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Giveaway- Sewing School Quilts: 15 Projects Kids Will Love to Make; Stitch Up a Patchwork Pet, Scrappy Journal, T-Shirt Quilt, and More

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Giveaway- Sewing School Quilts: 15 Projects Kids Will Love to Make; Stitch Up a Patchwork Pet, Scrappy Journal, T-Shirt Quilt, and More

Leave a comment in today’s post by June 7th, 2018 and you are in the running for this fun sewing book!

Open to U. S. residents only please.

The best-selling authors of the Sewing School series are back, introducing kids to the creativity of stitching patchwork, appliqué, and quilts. Using dynamic how-to photos and step-by-step instructions written for ages 8 to 12, Amie Petronis Plumley and Andria Lisle teach a variety of techniques using both hand and machine sewing. The 15 projects range from decorative to practical, including an appliquéd family crest wall hanging, a patchwork pet bed, a crazy-quilt journal cover, and a quilt made from recycled T-shirts. Every project features encouraging suggestions for making truly one-of-a-kind items that express the creative spirit of each young maker.

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Comments

  1. What a great book! I have a seven year old grandson who loves fabric and to sew, he even has his own stash! This would be a perfect book for us this summer.

    Super giveaway! Fingers crossed ;-D

    usairdoll (at) gmail (dot) com

  9. This would be so perfect for my grandkids – summer is here and it would keep them busy while visiting..

  18. Awesome – great idea for classroom gifts/school volunteer projects for shelters/homeless, 4H, BSA, GS, etc.

  20. Quilting is the next project I want to work on! I’ve always wanted to make a t-shirt quilt!

  22. My 9 year old grandson asked me to teach him how to sew this summer. He has caught on fast & wants to include his 8 year old brother. This would be a perfect source for our summer projects. So far we’ve made a pin cushion, a pillow and a soft cuddly quilt for my grandsons’ 1 year old cousin.

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 décor. 
  • Durable décor: 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.