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Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

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Newspaper Crafts

June 9, 2007 by Shellie Wilson

We all know the usual stuff to do with newspapers but how about some more unusual projects.

Newspaper slippers – Ok these are not going to be durable but are ideal for painting in or other one time use situations.

Newspaper Dustpan – Perfect for messy plaster shavings or a great “know how to make” for emergency picking up things situations.

Grandfathers Kite – Most of us know how to make a kite but if no one ever showed you how then borrow this grandad for a lesson in Grandads kite making.

Fire Logs – Logs can grow right out of your recycling bin with these fire starting logs.

Anyone else have some more unusual newspaper recycling craft ideas to share ?

Related Posts:

  • Woolie and Furry Upcycled Slippers by Made By Barb
  • Come On Baby, Start My Fire - DIY Firestarters
»

Comments

  1. susan says

    September 29, 2007 at 7:16 pm

    Do you know of any crafts to make out of pinecones? I’ve been looking for quite awhile and haven’t found much.

  2. susan says

    September 29, 2007 at 7:17 pm

    Really enjoy your site. Would like ideas on crafting with pinecones.

  3. Alissa says

    October 3, 2007 at 6:50 am

    Hi Susan,

    You might try the projects at these sites:

    http://familycrafts.about.com/od/pineconecrafts/

    http://www.talkingchild.com/craftspinecone.aspx

    http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/pinecone/

    For Thanksgiving: http://crafts.kaboose.com/pine-cone-turkeys.html

    Some of the projects may not suit your taste, but this is a start. Good luck!

  4. Kathy G says

    March 1, 2008 at 5:54 pm

    I made a newspaper dustpan today, and linked to your directions in my blog.

  5. Kathy Sorell says

    April 22, 2008 at 11:12 am

    I recently decided to use up some of my old wine bottles to make something interesting for my garden. I cleaned off the labels & used modge podge to glue on old beads, sea glass, etc and then set them in my garden..some pointing up, some pointing down. They make a nice stand for my gazing balls which are just foam balls decorated w/ stones, glass, left over beads & glued to the top of the bottle. They are really quite interesting & the kids love using their imaginations to make something out of our trash!

  6. NITI says

    April 28, 2008 at 4:21 am

    i love makeing things out of newspapers….i have infact, been doing so all my life now 🙂
    i liked these ideas too…..though mine are very very sturdy, useful and extremely simple and gorgeous…..i guess i should post these up on the net soon

  7. Rozaz says

    August 27, 2008 at 4:36 am

    Hello.

    I’m passionate making handcrafts using recycled newspaper. The techniques I use are, turning old newspaper to paper straws and weaving process to make baskets, vasts, side table lamps, etc. For coloring, I use timber tone or colored varnish. At first look, it is hardly to distinguish, either it is made from cane (rattan) or, it is really made from recycled newspaper

  8. pouch says

    December 13, 2008 at 7:49 am

    I love to see innovative ways to recycle newspapers.
    I bought some fair trade gifts from the Bishopston Trading Company in the UK last year and they pack all your purchases into these bags:
    http://www.flickr.com/photos/pouch_designs/2298618446/
    It is the most popular photo in my flickr photostream!

  9. Emily says

    April 2, 2011 at 9:49 pm

    I have 2 do this project at school n it has 2 be out of recyclable items n I want my project 2 be the best .. does anyone have anything that I could try 2 make out of newspaper

  10. sweet says

    February 22, 2012 at 12:46 pm

    hi can anyone share tere ideas for useful craft outof newspapers.

Have you read?

Build Big Memories on a Budget: DIY Cubby House Using Recycled Pallets

There’s something special about a cubby house. For kids, it’s more than just a backyard structure—it becomes a pirate ship, a secret hideaway, a miniature home, or a quiet spot to read and imagine. And for parents or grandparents, it’s a chance to create something meaningful that encourages outdoor play and creativity.

I recently came across a fantastic step-by-step guide from the team over at Bunnings Workshop that shows exactly how to build a DIY cubby house using recycled pallet timber. It’s a simple yet incredibly rewarding project that turns discarded timber into a charming play space your kids will absolutely love.

What I really appreciate about this project is how accessible it is. It doesn’t require a big budget or expensive materials. By using pallet timber, you not only save money but also help reduce waste—making it a great example of sustainable DIY. The cubby design is solid and safe, with a layout that leaves room for personal touches like paint, planters, or even a chalkboard wall.

This is the kind of project that can grow with your children. You might start with a basic structure and then add onto it as their play evolves—maybe a little deck area, a set of stairs, or some creative decor like a mini letterbox or curtains. It’s also a great opportunity for families to work together. Even young children can help with painting or handing over tools, making it a fun and collaborative experience.

The Bunnings Workshop tutorial provides a clear guide with a materials list, tool requirements, and helpful photos throughout. Whether you’re an experienced builder or a DIY beginner, the instructions are easy to follow and adaptable to different backyard sizes.

If you’ve been looking for a weekend project that adds charm to your outdoor space and creates long-lasting memories, this might be just the thing. Building a cubby house is a wonderful way to connect with your kids, encourage imagination, and spend time outdoors—without needing to buy another plastic playhouse.

You can explore the full project and instructions here:
DIY Cubby House Using Recycled Pallet Timber – Bunnings Workshop

If you do give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Share your cubby house photos and ideas—I know many readers would be inspired to see how each one takes on its own unique personality.

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