Eco gift wrapping with style

Anyone who has even a passing acquaintance with me knows that I hate to waste stuff, which means that I recycle materials wherever I can.

I also love the gifts I give to look as special on the outside as they do on the inside.

So, when I found this tutorial on the How About Orange blog for making cool gift bows from old magazine pages, all the planets aligned for me.

So before you recycle those old magazine’s you’re done with, keep aside any pages that feature interesting graphics, because they could just find a new lease on life adorning your next gift. Find out how to make your own eco-friendly gift wrapping here.

[Via Crafterholic]

Tags: gift wrapping, magazines, origami, paper crafts, Recycling

Recycle crafting with free ebook

If you’re looking for some cool craft projects that you can make from stuff you’d normally put out for collection in your council recycling bin, you should check out this free ebook from FaveCrafts — there are some great activities in it to do with the kids.

Here’s a peak at what’s inside:

Section 1: Paper
Learn how to use junk mail to make paper beads

Section 2: Paper Making
Use paper, magazines and greeting cards to create different kinds of crafts

Section 3: Metal
Use tins and cans to create little critters and luminaries

Section 4: Plastic
Use those old bottles, cans and containers to create household items and decor

Section 5: Glass
Don’t break those old wine bottles, create coasters out of them

Section 6: Clothing
Sweaters and belts don’t have to be clothing items, they can be made into bracelets

Section 7: Miscellaneous
Take those old CD’s and turn them into ornaments

You can download the Recycling Crafts: 42 Ways to Recycle ebook here.

Tags: Recycling

Use up all those craft scraps

A vase made from an old milk carton

Is it just me, or are all crafters hoarders?

Mind you I have no trouble doing regular clean-outs of my wardrobe, my linen press or the kitchen cupboards, but I’m loathe to part with even the smallest material or wool scrap — I just know they’ll comein handy one day and will be just what I’m looking for!

If you’ve got loads of bits and bobs like me that are piling up quicker than you can repurpose them, check out the Easy Projects with Caft Scraps feature.

The 27 projects on offer  include a funky Vase made from an old milk carton and paper scraps, ribbon-embellished notebooks, a cute baby mobile (this one is on my to-do list as I have a new grandchild on the way!), a cool messenger bag made from fabric scraps, a peg board stationary organiser and more.

Hopefully, some of these projects will make a dent in my craft stash, even just a wee bit!

Tags: craft scraps, Recycling

30 craft projects that recycle

A throw rug made from old jumpers

Still on the topic of recycling, the US Better Homes and Gardens site is currently featuring 30 great craft projects using items that you would otherwise throw out in the rubbish or things to make that will save on adding to the world’s landfill.

Projects include a snazzy tote bag that will replace those plastic bags when you go to the shops, a throw rug made from old jumpers, and several ways to make a style statement with old cans.

You’ll find all 30 projects here.

Tags: Better Homes and Gardens, crafts, Recycling