Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Review: The Sparkle Factory by Tarina Tarantino and Halloween Bling I made with Prima Beads

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If you like making fun and pretty jewelry and experimenting with all sorts of jewelry making techniques you will love The Sparkle Factory: The Design and Craft of  Tarina’s Fashion Jewelry and Accessories.

This book is packed with great stepped out tutorials for making all different types of jewelry, everything from stringing and wirework to casting and of course recycled elements. The styling is beyond cool and the designs are to-die-for! I was inspired buy so many of the projects in The Sparkle Factory I was instantly digging through my stash to find bits to make some new pieces of jewelry. With Halloween just around the corner I thought I’d start there.

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This page from The Sparkle Factory was my inspiration. It features lots of bracelets layered and mixed together (one of my favorite looks!)

I made 3 bracelets with Prima Jewelry Basics black glass beads and two skull beads from the stash.

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When wrapped together they make a super-wide cuff!

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I also have a little tip for you. To get the 2 skulls in the center of the memory wire I made a small make in the center of the wire before I started stringing the beads onto the wire. This way when I got close to the mark I new to put the skulls on. Memory wire stretches out a bit when the beads go on.

More about from the publisher Running Press

The Sparkle Factory: The Design and Craft of  Tarina’s Fashion Jewelry and Accessories

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Tarina Tarantino

“Tarina Tarantino’s love affair with fashion jewelry and accessories began when she was just a little girl. Tarina now owns and operates her famous global jewelry, accessories, and cosmetics brand, TARINA TARANTINO, out of her international headquarters in downtown Los Angeles, The Sparkle Factory. In her first book, Tarina invites you into her world to learn how to make and wear beautiful and inspirational fashion jewelry. Fashionistas, aspiring jewelry designers, and DIY lovers will learn how to make 20 of Tarina’s most essential pieces including statement earrings, cocktail rings, hair jewelry, stretch cuff bracelets, embellished spectacles, and more. Fans of Tarina will also learn about her brand history, getting inspired, creating themes and stories, sourcing materials, essential tools and techniques, how to wear and style your jewelry wardrobe, and more. The text is complemented by tips and hundreds of full-color photos throughout.”

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Handmade with a Past: Tuesday’s Top Recycled Etsy Find

If you love a good wine and a stylish cheese platter, then this recycled flat wine bottle cheese board will be your new best friend. Not only does it combine two of life’s greatest pleasures, but it also gives a second life to old wine bottles, turning them into something functional and chic.

I stumbled across a similar piece at a friend’s gathering last year, and I couldn’t stop admiring it. The wine bottle was almost unrecognizable—transformed into a sleek, modern board for snacks and small bites. It’s the perfect conversation starter, and honestly, it brings a certain wow factor to any dinner party or casual gathering.

This cheese board isn’t just pretty; it’s practical too. The smooth surface is ideal for serving everything from crackers to fruit to your favorite cheeses. Plus, it’s an awesome example of recycling and upcycling, keeping those old bottles out of landfills while elevating your entertaining game.

Why we love it:

  • Made from recycled flat wine bottles, adding sustainability to your kitchen

  • A unique upcycled home decor item that’s also super functional

  • Ideal for wine lovers, eco-conscious hosts, or anyone who loves a good cheese board

Not only does this board make for a stylish and sustainable addition to your kitchen, but it also makes for an awesome gift for those who love eco-friendly entertaining.