Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

How to make colorful tea light planets

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Tea Light Planets from ping pong balls 

These orbs are so cool and I happen to have scored a bunch of ping pong balls at the dollar store just the other day.

If you’re looking for a fun and unique DIY project to add a touch of whimsy to your home decor, you won’t want to miss this ping pong ball orb tutorial. By using ping pong balls, you can easily create a set of stunning orbs that resemble planets. All you need is some paint and string lights to transform plain ping pong balls into eye-catching, space-themed decor.

The tutorial, available on Journey Creativity, walks you through the process step by step. You’ll learn how to paint the ping pong balls to create a realistic planetary effect, and how to string them together with lights to create a stunning display. These ping pong ball orbs are perfect for adding a playful touch to your home, especially in a child’s bedroom or playroom.

If you’re interested in taking this project to the next level, you might be wondering if there’s a larger ball you can use to create even bigger orbs. While ping pong balls are the perfect size for creating small orbs, there are other options you can consider. For example, you could use bouncy balls, beach balls, or even basketballs to create a larger version of this DIY project. You could also experiment with different painting techniques or color schemes to create a unique look.

Pop on over to the blog Journey Creativity for the tutorial on how to paint ping pong balls like planets and make them into mini lights. I wonder if there is a slightly larger ball that would work with solar lights?

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I Found a Table Made from Mannequin Legs—and I’m Still Not Over It

 

manequin table recycled

Okay, I have to tell you about one of the most bizarre-yet-brilliant DIYs I’ve come across in a while. While scrolling through google (as one does when deep into a late-night upcycling rabbit hole), I stumbled on a video tutorial for a table made out of mannequin legs. And honestly? I couldn’t look away.

This project is peak creative chaos—in the best way. The concept is exactly what it sounds like: four mannequin legs, flipped and fixed in place, supporting a standard tabletop. It’s got this quirky, surreal vibe that makes it feel part high fashion, part modern art installation. Think: Tim Burton meets IKEA.

What I loved most about this video is how surprisingly accessible it is. The creator breaks the process down clearly—so even though the end result looks totally wild, the steps are manageable. You’ll need a few tools and a decent amount of glue or screws (depending on how permanent you want this table to be), but nothing too technical.

Design-wise, this piece is an absolute conversation starter. It would look amazing in a creative studio, a funky coffee shop, or even as a statement piece in a minimalist home—anywhere you want to break the “normal furniture” mold. The contrast between the realistic mannequin legs and a basic tabletop is just the right kind of weird.

If you’re into recycled home decor, eco-conscious DIY projects, or just love adding some unexpected personality to your space, this one’s worth bookmarking. Whether or not you ever make it yourself, it’s guaranteed to make you see mannequins—and furniture—in a whole new way.

Catch the full tutorial and see the visual magic for yourself on Recyclart. Just be prepared to say, “Wait, is that a leg?” every time someone visits your house.