Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Newspaper Crafts

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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 ?

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Comments

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

  5. 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. 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. 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

  9. 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

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.

Book Review – DIY Wood Pallet Projects: 35 Rustic Modern Upcycling Ideas to Personalize Your Space

Painted pallets make an arena

Winner-DIY Wood Pallet Projects book