Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure
In asking around for some great ideas for making crafts out of recycled items, one of my peeps over at Homespun Helpers gave me a link to this great idea she had. When your scented candles get down to their last vestiges, instead of tossing the whole thing thinking it’s done for, simply turn those candles into drawer fresheners! Head to Heather’s blog for the full details!
Today, in honor of ANZAC Day, we’re shining a spotlight on a truly unique Australian artist — The Barefooted Welder, aka Michael Dudley. Based in North Queensland, Michael is known for his raw, imaginative sculptures made entirely from scrap metal. His work is bold, unapologetically rustic, and deeply rooted in both environmental and emotional storytelling.
What makes his work so compelling isn’t just the way he repurposes over seven tonnes of steel, copper, and aluminum — it’s the intention behind each piece. Michael doesn’t just weld metal; he breathes new life into forgotten fragments. From massive animals to symbolic figures, his sculptures are a mash-up of chaos and beauty, and they demand attention.
One piece that especially caught our eye (and hearts) this week is his striking metal poppy wreath, a tribute for ANZAC Day. The wreath, made from rusted salvaged metal and sculpted entirely by hand, is a stunning and deeply moving symbol of remembrance. It captures the essence of sacrifice and memory, but through a sustainable lens that makes you think twice about what we throw away.
Michael has a way of breaking the rules with his art — he even describes his process as “messy,” which we think is the perfect kind of energy when working with unpredictable materials. He creates without blueprints, often barefoot, guided more by instinct than plan — which somehow makes his pieces feel even more alive.
Whether it’s his life-size Bengal tiger sculpture created to raise awareness of endangered species or a delicate flower made of rusty washers, the Barefooted Welder is a reminder that art can be powerful, messy, meaningful, and sustainable all at once.
So, on this ANZAC Day, we celebrate artists like Michael who use their creativity to honor the past while also protecting the future — one sculpture at a time.
Drawer fresheners is a great idea except…when the temperature gets hot, they do get soft and will leave spots in your drawers and get on your clothes. Does this sound like the voice of experience? I do put them in the ash tray of my car. On a hot day when you open the car door, it smells great.