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If you’ve got an old or incomplete deck of UNO cards lying around, don’t toss them just yet! Whether the cards are bent, missing pieces, or just no longer in rotation for game night, there are plenty of clever ways to upcycle UNO cards into fun and functional crafts.

Interestingly, UNO has taken a step toward sustainability with the release of their UNO Nothin’ But Paper deck — an eco-conscious version of the classic game made entirely from recyclable paper. It’s great to see big brands making greener choices, but what about those plastic-coated cards you already have? Instead of letting them go to waste, try turning them into something new and creative!

Here are some of our favorite DIY ideas for reusing UNO cards:

Playing Cards Purse — CraftBits.com This project turns your colorful cards into a funky, eye-catching purse. By using clear duct tape and a bit of crafting patience, you can create a unique accessory that’s equal parts playful and practical.

DIY UNO Card Game Art – One Mile Home Style UNO cards are bold, bright, and instantly recognizable. Why not use them to create modern wall art or a playful decor piece? Frame them, arrange them by color, or create a heart or mosaic design to liven up a game room or kid’s space.

Upcycling Playing Cards – craftygardener.caThis blog showcases a handful of ways to reuse any kind of playing cards — and UNO decks are perfect thanks to their color-coded design. Use them to create bookmarks, gift tags, or even mini photo frames. You’ll love how versatile they can be once you start experimenting.

Playing Card Wallet — CraftBits.com With just a few supplies, you can turn two sturdy UNO cards into a simple wallet or card holder. This is a great upcycled gift idea for teens, gamers, or anyone who appreciates quirky handmade items.

Clear Duct Tape Card Purse — CraftBits.com Another purse project that uses clear tape to seal and shape your UNO cards into a functional and fabulous little handbag. It’s surprisingly durable and makes for a fun conversation piece.

Great collection of recycled home stuff to use in fun learning activities 

So while Mattel’s move toward eco-friendly decks is definitely a win for sustainability, there’s still plenty of life left in your existing UNO cards. Upcycling them into clever crafts is not only environmentally friendly, it’s also a fantastic way to express your creativity. Whether you’re making wallets, art, or accessories, give your UNO cards a second chance to shine!

Before you head off to raid the junk drawer for that half-deck of UNO cards, here’s a fun reminder — have you ever actually read the real rules of UNO? Because if you’ve played with family or friends, chances are… you haven’t.

Yes, it’s true: stacking +2 and +4 cards isn’t in the official rules (gasp!). And no, you can’t play a Wild Draw 4 just because you feel like it — you’re supposed to only use it when you have no matching colors or numbers. We know, right? Mind. Blown.

So while you’re crafting away with your upcycled UNO cards, maybe print out a copy of the real rulebook and drop it into the purse or wallet you just made. Next game night, you can be the hero (or villain) who drops the “actually…” bomb and sets the record straight. Just don’t be surprised if you get banned from family game night for being that person.

Happy crafting and playing — by the rules (or not)!