Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Handmade with a Past: Tuesday’s Top Recycled Etsy Find

by

Ever looked at a plane’s life vest and thought, “That would make a killer toiletry bag?” No? Well, someone did—and thank goodness for that kind of genius.

This week’s top recycled Etsy find is a total conversation starter: an upcycled dopp kit made from an authentic aircraft life vest, complete with the original red toggle cord and all the rugged, world-traveled character you didn’t know your travel bag was missing.

Handmade with care and packed with purpose, this eco-friendly toiletry bag gives new life to retired aviation gear—making it perfect for jet-setters, design lovers, and anyone who appreciates a little “Where did you get that?!” energy in their everyday carry. The materials are durable, water-resistant, and undeniably cool, proving that sustainability and style can totally co-pilot.

Why we love it:

  • Made from recycled life vests

  • Features bold, functional design details

  • A practical, planet-friendly gift for travelers or dads who hate boring dopp kits

Give this dopp kit a second life in your suitcase—and a first-class upgrade to your eco-conscious lifestyle.

Related Posts:

Have you read?

Time Flies — And Sometimes It Has Wings Made of Vintage Paper and Buttons

Have you ever been to the cuckoo clock shop at Tamborine Mountain? It’s like stepping into another world — a charming, ticking wonderland filled with thousands (yes, literally thousands) of clocks. Some are grand and ornate, others tiny and tucked away like secrets waiting to be discovered. I remember walking through the shop with my kids, completely enchanted by the whirring gears, dancing figurines, and the joyful chorus of chimes. It was one of those places where time feels like it both stops and flies.

That same feeling came flooding back when I stumbled across this adorable craft project from Teawagon Tales called Time Flies. In true vintage style, it’s a whimsical little DIY that combines scraps of fabric, old paper, buttons, and clock faces into sweet butterfly-like creations — a beautiful mashup of memory, imagination, and just plain cuteness.

It reminded me that crafting is a little like walking through that clock shop. Each piece holds a story, a tick of nostalgia, and the joy of noticing small details. You don’t need much — just some leftover fabric, maybe an old book page or two, and a few bits from your button tin. And suddenly you’re creating something that feels like it fluttered out of a fairytale.

So if you’ve got a stash of pretty paper or vintage bits and bobs you’ve been saving for “something special,” this might be the perfect project to give them new life.

Take a look at the full tutorial and soak up some serious inspiration:
Time Flies – Teawagon Tales

And if you ever find yourself near Tamborine Mountain, do yourself a favour — pop into that cuckoo clock shop. It’s pure magic for anyone who knows that time isn’t just measured in minutes, but in memories.