Let me just say I love this book for it’s comprehensiveness.
It covers all sorts of crafts (and for us hobby surfers this is a big plus!)
It includes excellent illustrations, photographs, patterns and directions so that even the most beginner crafter is sure to have all the guidance needed to complete a recycle craft project either exactly as the directions state or to veer off the path and truly make their own creation. To see a variation I made and an inside peek into Craftcycle pop on over here.
Also included are recipes, because we all have to keep our strength up for tons of up-cycling.
If you’ve ever stared at your recycling bin and thought, “I could totally make something cool out of that,” then Craftcycle: 100+ Earth-Friendly Projects and Ideas for Everyday Living by Heidi Boyd might just become your new favorite craft book—because that’s exactly what happened to me.
This book is packed with over 100 creative and eco-friendly craft ideas that use stuff you probably already have lying around. Think fabric scraps, cardboard boxes, tin cans—basically the kind of things most people toss without a second thought. Heidi takes all that everyday “junk” and turns it into functional, beautiful projects, from stylish storage to cute home decor. I seriously found myself dog-earing almost every page.
One of the things I loved most? The projects are actually do-able. You don’t need a fancy craft room or loads of specialty supplies. I whipped up a recycled tote bag after reading through just the first few chapters, and it came out surprisingly cute (and strong!). There are tons of ideas for all seasons too, which means year-round inspiration for handmade gifts, decorations, and more.
The vibe of the book is super friendly and encouraging—it feels like crafting with a creative friend who’s just as passionate about saving the planet as they are about making things. It’s not preachy, but it does make you think twice before throwing things away.
I’ve already got my eye on a few more projects to try, especially the ones involving old magazines and fabric remnants (I hoard both, no shame). If you’re into sustainable living, love getting crafty, or just want a reason to hold onto those cool-looking jars and cereal boxes, Craftcycle is totally worth checking out. I walked away inspired—and with a new stack of upcycled ideas ready to try.
