Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Junk Mail Dress

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junkmailsm.jpgIt’s hard to believe this beautiful ensemble is made primarily from junk mail. And that the artist who created it, Nancy Judd, has created outfits equally as stunning from rusty nails, newspapers, tin cans and Target shopping bags. Judd, who … Read More ...

Circuit Board Creations

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suncatcher.jpgWhether you embrace the inner geek in you or not, you’re sure to appreciate (new Etsy member) Debby Arem‘s jewelry, magnets, office supplies and accessories made from used circuit boards. I’m especially fond of her sun catchers, which she … Read More ...

Autumn Roses

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maple_roses.jpgForget the raking! Transform changing autumn leaves into sweet rosebuds by following this excellent pictorial step-by-step. Just be sure to snag the leaves while they’re still malleable instead of using them in their crunchy state.

[tags]leaves, autumn, fall, roses, rosebuds[/tags]… Read More ...

Make a Homer Doughnut

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doughnut.jpgDadcando.com is a site dedicated to fathers, especially single fathers and non-resident fathers who have contact with their children. The site includes lots of hands-on practical projects that dads can cook, make and do with their kids (although it’s not … Read More ...

Dia De Los Muertos Shrine

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chica_shrine.jpgIn honor of Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead), grab some inspiration from this handmade used mint tin-turned-shrine by Crafty Chica (Kathy Cano-Murillo). Although the Day of the Dead celebrates the lives of those who are no longer … Read More ...

Halloween Lantern

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jackolantern.jpgHere’s a truly sustainable jack-o-lantern: one that’s made from recycled materials, PLUS one that can be used year after year. You’ll find this silly pumpkin face, which is made from an antique sap bucket and holds a tealight candle, … Read More ...

Junk to Funk Fashion Show

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junk_to_funk.jpgThe submission deadline has passed for the second annual Junk to Funk fashion show in Portland, but you can still observe the recycled fashion action by attending the event. It’s set for Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Wonder Ballroom. … Read More ...

Crushed Can Art

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crushed_can_art.jpgArtist Charles Kaufman‘s work can be found on the pages of underground comic books and on gallery walls around the world. His colorful cartoonish paintings can also be found on used aluminum soda and beer cans.

“Using acrylic paints … Read More ...

Garden Hose Vase

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hose_vase.gifIf you find yourself “fixing” your leaky garden hose with duct tape, then maybe it’s time to consider making it into something pretty. I learned about this industrial chic multi-pronged bud vase by Dan Pearlman (of Objects of Desire) from … Read More ...

Leg Warmers — for Your Arms

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armies.jpgI’m in love with these handcrafted arm warmers, “Armies,” by Gaye Abandon. Made from recycled sweaters, the entire line of Armies gives wearers the mobility they need in their hands without the more-often-than-not ragged look found in fingerless gloves. Plus, … Read More ...