Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

Tin Can Jewelry

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Jennifer from Made From the Heart at Etsy does a smashing (yuk, yuk) job of transforming used tin cans into stylish jewelry. I’m particularly fond of her sun-shaped Coke pendant ($7), shown.

Jenn shared with me how she started making recycled crafts:

 

Looking for jewelry-making supplies? Check out our favorite supplier BeeBeeCraft

“Originally we were just trying to conserve and help the environment by recycling at home. I started seeing all these things that people were making out of recycled items, and I thought there has to be something we can do with aluminum cans, and my teenage daughter suggested jewelry. It took a while to experiment before we finally came up with something that would work but it was well worth it. By conserving and re-using what we have we are able to help make a better future. I like to know that instead of throwing it away it’s there to be used another day.”

 

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Comments

  1. I would like to know this beautiful item mde from coke can have not sharp edges, have any material to protect from cutting.

  6. I have most of the books in this series and each one is a dlehgit. Full of ideas for making the gifts you give really stand out. When I make something from one of these books I always take the recipe with me.. I know I will be asked for it! The only draw back is that some of the recipes call for several ingredients and unless you have a well stocked pantry it can be a tad costly. However do not let that stop you. These books are a great source of inspitation and ideas.

Have you read?

Book Review: Upcycle: 24 Sustainable DIY Projects – Eco-Friendly Design Meets Crafty Creativity

upcycled furniture

If you’re someone who finds joy in transforming the old into something new, then Upcycle by Rebecca Proctor is a must-have for your creative bookshelf. This visually rich book is not your average recycled crafts guide—it’s a stylish celebration of eco-conscious design and modern sustainability through hands-on creativity.

The book highlights 24 innovative upcycling projects, all crafted by contemporary designers. Each project turns discarded or everyday materials into stunning, functional items. From furniture made with pallets to light fixtures created from repurposed plastics, the book challenges you to think differently about waste—and what it can become.

As someone who’s always looking for recycled home decor inspiration and ways to reduce landfill waste through crafting, I found this book incredibly refreshing. It’s not just about crafting for fun (although it is fun!)—it’s about mindful making. The focus on design-led upcycling means the projects are genuinely beautiful, not just cobbled together. These pieces could easily fit into a modern home or creative studio.

What I loved most was the way each designer shares the story behind their materials and their process, reminding us that there’s a narrative behind every reused object. The photography is bold and professional, making this book not just a tutorial guide, but also an inspiring coffee table book for fellow eco-conscious makers.

Upcycle is a creative manifesto for sustainable living, perfect for artists, designers, and DIY lovers who believe in the power of reuse. Whether you’re repurposing for the planet or simply love the beauty of unique handmade pieces, this book will leave you full of ideas.