Using waste materials to make crafts is not only an excellent way to recycle, it is also a good way to teach/learn about waste reduction.
Repurpose old jars, bottles and even dishware with paint!
Even if you're not an artist you can paint like one. You can repurpose any container by making decorative holders of them for spare change, nuts, candies, paper clips, elastics, etc.
What you'll need:
• Computer and printer if you want a template
• Use clipart
• Empty jar, bottle, mug or container
• Acrylic paint
• Tape
• Paintbrush
How to make it:
1. Using a computer, print out any graphic that you like.
2. Put the graphic inside the jar as a pattern to go by or cut it out and use like a template.
3. Paint on the container, following the lines of your pattern.
4. That's it! Just let it dry before using it.
Plastic Grocery Bag Dispenser
Kids have the power to help save the earth and solve storage problems with this craft.
What you'll need:
• Old long sleeved shirt
• Needle and thread
• Ribbon
How to make it:
1. Take the sleeves off of old long sleeved shirts that you don't want any more.
2. Turn down the end that came from the shirt to where it is even all the way around, stitch down.
3. Tack a piece of ribbon on each side of the top to hang it by and dispense the bags from the cuff end.
Tips: Bigger shirt sizes probably would work better for this.
Crafts Internet sites:
My Recycled Bags
Recycling Crafts Ideas
Crafts for Kids