TerraCycle Upcycled Valentine’s Craft

08th Feb2012

TerraCycle Upcycled Valentine’s Craft

by Dinah Wulf

LOVE THE PLANET THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

Celebrate with Eco Games and Gifts from Upcycling Pioneer TerraCycle

Love it or loathe it, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. Some are planning romantic dates with their longtime sweetheart. Some are planning to finally ask out their crush at recess. Regardless of your plans this Valentine’s Day, TerraCycle has sweet ways to celebrate that are good for the planet, good for the wallet and good for you.

While cleaning up trash doesn’t seem like a romantic way to spend the day, you can celebrate the holiday and effect real-world change with special Valentine’s Day items, products and decorations in Trash Tycoon, Facebook’s first upcycling game from Guerillapps and TerraCycle. In the game, you can clean up trash and upcycle it to fun products like necklaces, Valentine’s Day cards and heart shaped wreaths to send to friends or to decorate your town. Players’ hearts will swell because Trash Tycoon creates positive social impact by donating 10% of in-game dollars to environmental projects sponsored by CarbonFund.org.

Next, love Mother Earth and your Valentine by making an upcycled necklace out of Kraft Cheese wrappers or chocolate wrappers, just like the necklace in Trash Tycoon! TerraCycle’s Design Junkies have brought the beaded necklace into the real world with simple, do-it-yourself instructions available for download here: bit.ly/ValentineBraceletDIY. Whether you make one for that special Valentine or one for each of your friends, recipients will be touched that you took the time to give them a heartfelt, handmade gift.

Here is the How-To on YouTube.

Finally, Valentine’s Day and candy go together like peas and carrots, but the packaging can be a real heartbreaker. All those red and pink wrappers left over from sweet treats can be sent to TerraCycle through Mars’ Candy Wrapper Brigade to be recycled and earn money for charity. Signing up is free and easy at www.terracycle.com.

About TerraCycle

TerraCycle, Inc. is an international upcycling and recycling company that takes difficult-to recycle-packaging and turns it into affordable, innovative products. Founded in 2001, TerraCycle (www.terracycle.com) is the world’s leader in the collection and reuse of non-recyclable post-consumer waste. TerraCycle works with more than 30 major brands in the U.S. and around the world to collect used packaging and products that would otherwise be destined for landfills. It repurposes that waste into new, innovative materials and products that are available online and through major retailers. The waste is collected through TerraCycle’s Brigade programs, which are free fundraisers that pay for every piece of waste collected and returned. For information on how to join a TerraCycle Brigade and on purchasing TerraCycle products please visit www.terracycle.com.

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Category : Crafts, Holidays

Tags : Craft Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Valentine's Day

0 Comm

07th Feb2012

Wine Crate Shelves

by Dinah Wulf

A few posts ago I wrote asking for help on recycled wine crate ideas. I FINALLY thought of something!

But first, as a recap, I’ve had these wine crates from a Wine Tasting Bridal Shower that I did. You can get wine crates from any specialty wine store. Oftentimes they are free or some stores sell them for about five dollars apiece.

Materials:

3 Wine Crates
Stain (optional)
Polyurethane (Optional)
Paint Brush (Optional)
Rag (Optional)
Four ¼” 20X36” Threaded Rods
Eight ¼” Cap Nuts
24 ¼” Flat Washers
Knob

Here are the wine crates before.

As you can see here, there were white sticker labels on some of them.

To remove stickers from unfinished wood, apply heat directly with a hairdryer, peel, and voila! No sticker!

As most wine crates are made out of unfinished wood, I wanted to darken them a little with stain to give them a weathered look. I purchased a sample from a hardware store for less than three dollars. To do this, I first sanded and rough spots with 150-grit sand paper.

Next, I applied the stain with a paint brush. Each stroke should be in the direction of the wood grain.

Wipe the stain off with a cloth or old rag in the direction of the wood grain. I did this to the top, bottom, sides, and inside for all three crates.

Once the stain is completely dry (check the drying time on the stain you choose), apply a coat of polyurethane to each crate.

When the polyurethane is dry (approximately two hours), align the bottom and middle crate with the bottom crate upside down (as shown below). This will make it easiest to drill and align the holes.

Using a ¼” drill bit, drill a hole in each corner, drilling through both crates.

Next, align the middle and top crates, turning the top crate upside down (as shown). Using the holes in the middle crate as guides, drill the four holes in the top crate.

Insert each threaded rod one by one and sucure each one with a nut and bolt on both sides. Use cap nuts for the bottom and top.

I think 24 inch threaded rods may work better (sturdier). I may perhaps add metal brackets for more support too because of the height.

I added a decorative knob to the top crate with a lid. I used a pre-existing hole.

Here are some after photos.

I think this would be perfect in a kitchen or bathroom for extra storage, or for plants!

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Category : DIY Furniture, DIY Tips and Tricks

Tags : Dinah's Tutorials, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas

6 Comm

03rd Feb2012

Repurposed Lighting Inspiration

by Dinah Wulf

Everywhere I go, I always have my camera. Not only do I want to capture fun moments with my daughter, family, and friends, but I find decorating inspiration EVERYWHERE. I end up filing my pictures in digital folders on my computer.

I just noticed that I had taken several pictures of lighting ideas and thought I’d share them. Some of these pictures are old, but in my head, the store bought version is way too expensive anyway. I’d rather try and recreate them with flea market or thrift store finds.

Anyway, here is some really cool repurposed lighting inspiration that I’ve captured on my camera over the last several months. I think with a little creativity, you can get these looks for less.

This was a lamp I saw at Anthropologie. It’s simply a tea kettle, lamp kit, and colorful lamp shade. I’ve also seen lamps similar to this made out of stacked tea cups and saucers… super cute.

This one is also from Anthropologie (I frequent there often… love the window displays). It’s a lamp made out of recycled cardboard!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this one! The mix of an industrial metal basket and chic chandelier is fantastic!

If I recall correctly, the price tag on this one was pretty steep…several thousand dollars….yikes! I think a smaller version of this made out of mismatched thrift store silverware would be cute.

I can picture this one hanging in an enclosed patio or sun room. I like the mixture of glass bottles, shells, and twine.

Technically, this one isn’t repurposed, but it caught my eye.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Decorating Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

9 Comm

27th Jan2012

Repurposed Pin-spiration

by Dinah Wulf

“Pin-spiration” is a new term I’ve been seeing a lot lately. Pintrest is yet another social networking site that allows you to create virtual pin boards of absolutely anything that fits your fancy. Check out my Pin boards here. Did I mention I am obsessed with it? I can spend hours perusing the site.

Here are some great repurposed pin-spiration ideas I pulled off this addictive site.

Maps are the stylish craze these days! Better Homes and Garden repurposed a globe into a bowl by adhering (what looks like, or could be) a candlestick to make an interesting centerpiece.

Good Housekeeping displayed this cute outdoor side table made out of four window shutters and a glass top.

This one is fantastic! Curbly.com repurposed an old filing cabinet into a rolling kitchen cart. It serves several purposes including kitchen storage and cutting board… genius!

What girl wouldn’t like this to show off a collection of shoes! Check out these shelves turned beautiful display case. (Photo source unknown)

This may be my favorite and DEFINITELY my style. It’s an old barn door turned sliding bathroom door. (Photo source unknown)

Another idea for repurposing old rustic doors is using two as headboards as pictured below. (Photo source unknown)

Greenisuniversal.com has this creative tutorial for repurposing old belts and weaving them into a vintage aluminum lawn chair.

And last but not least (ok, maybe). Unfortunately, not all designs work out. Although it was initially a good idea, this repurposed Nintendo game console was repurposed into a lunch box and posted on failblog.com… at least they tried!

**Don’t forget to vote for DIYInspired.com on Top Mommy Blogs! Just click on the “Vote For Us!” icon on the right sidebar of DIYInspired’s home page. One click and you’re done! You can vote once a day! Thank you in advance for your support!**

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Category : DIY Furniture

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Refurbishing Ideas, Repurposing Ideas

3 Comm

20th Jan2012

Six Ways to Recycle Maps

by Dinah Wulf

Maps are so beautiful. I’ve been looking for some ways to use them because I see them everywhere (including my glove box). Just like CD’s, record albums, and books, they are becoming obsolete due to the emergence of electronics like the GPS and the internet. But what I do love about maps is that they tell a story and simultaneously serve as a work of art. Here are six great ways to recycle maps.

One: Art Work

Check out these heart maps by Tcktyboo. Each heart represents a special place. For example, where you were married, where you went on your honeymoon, or where the kids were born.

I also saw a great idea on Pintrest (I can’t find the picture or source anymore) where a map was framed and the route to a special trip was stitched in a coordinating colored string… so cute! Update! Thanks to Adri, here is the link for that map! http://www.marthastewart.com/375160/map-artwork Thank you, Adri!!!

Two: Pillow

This is a pillow from Etsy inspired by a vintage map.

Three: Pinwheels

Another Etsy find, these cute pinwheels make a whimsical vintage wedding favor. Click here for different pinwheel tutorials.

Four: Upcycle Furniture

Here are three great examples of using decoupage on maps to turn an old piece of furniture into a unique and beautiful conversation piece.

Cover a wooden chest

Inspiration from Nate Berkus

Revamp an old Dresser

Add new life to an old Vanity

Five: Gift Wrap

Just in time for the holidays, use an old map as gift wrapping paper.

Six: Monograms or Letters

Use decoupage to commemorate a trip on craft letters (source unknown).

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Category : DIY Artwork, DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Gift Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas, Wedding Ideas

10 Comm

18th Jan2012

Repurposed Crate Ideas

by Dinah Wulf

A few months ago, I did a blog post on recycling old crates. It included using crates for shelving, bike baskets, and side tables. Since then, I have gathered a collection of old wine crates from a wine tasting party I did in October. I’ve been searching for more inspiration for a new project and found some other great repurposed crate ideas. Here are a few pictures.

This wine crate dog bowl would be a perfect DIY project for me, especially since I have two little pups, Harley and Pablo.

I like these ideas of layering and using a crate as a planter. This would also look nice outside, on a patio or atrium. The problem with this idea is that I don’t have a green thumb, so I don’t really have that many plants.

How cool is this… creating a rustic work space in the garage complemented with a wood bench. The problem with this is that my garage has no room for it.

I’m guessing these are milk crates? Love this look, but my collection of crates are too small and are in different shapes and sizes.

This is also great. These crate shelves have two purposes. It’s functional for holding kitchen necessities as well as displays a collection of antiques. My issue with this idea is that my kitchen is so small that I have no wall space for this.

I started a list a while back of how I should repurpose my collection of wine crates including making a jewelry case, a cornice, a seat, or a dog bed, but I still can’t decide.

Any ideas or suggestions? I feel stuck… help!

Photo Sources: Eco Salon, funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot, Green Dairy, Love1, Remodelaholic, tangledepartment.blogspot

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

2 Comm

17th Jan2012

Recycled Magazine Bowl

by Dinah Wulf

Awe man! This project was a lot tougher than I thought. Ever since I made that recycled magazine frame, I have wanted to make something else out of magazine pages. When I first had this recycled magazine bowl project in my head I pictured a large shallow fruit bowl. Let’s face it, not all DIY projects turn out exactly like you want them to. In this case, my fruit bowl turned into a… ummm… key/change holder thingy? LOL!

I do have to admit, however, that this little sucker is VERY sturdy. Although it didn’t turn out quite like I expected, it is still very cute and useful. Here is how I made it.

Using a paper cutter, I cut two inch thick strips from an old magazine. Each page gave me three strips and I used about 75 pages for this project. See? Now you know why there was no way I was making a larger bowl!

I folded each strip twice lengthwise to create a half inch thick strip.

Next I began rolling each strip, securing it with a tiny piece of scotch tape. Make sure you pull your roll taut as you go.

When the base was completed, I applied two coats of decoupage medium, allowing it to dry completely in between each coat.

Next, I continued adding strips gradually layering each round upwards. When I reached the desired height (actually when I was tired of folding and rolling strips), I added another two coats of decoupage medium to the inside and outside of the bowl.

Here are a few after photos.

**I heart comments! If you have any comments, ideas, or suggestions, please feel free to comment below. Is there a craft project you want me to try? I’ll gladly do my best to take on your craft challenge and I’m always looking for new ideas! Just let me know! Also, if you have a project you’d like to share, please email me at dwulf@diyinspired.com.**

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Category : Crafts, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Mod Podge, paper crafts, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Upcycling Ideas

5 Comm

13th Jan2012

Flea Market Finds

by Dinah Wulf

I am completely obsessed with Flea Markets. Ever since I started blogging, I have come across so many fun places to go. I wanted to share some of my flea market finds and show how you can get hunt for inexpensive great pieces and repurpose them into something new.

I found this old milk crate for five dollars at a flea market in Orange, California. I decided to add mason jars, turn it on its side and use it for my makeup and hair products.

Old crates and boxes can be repainted and used to display collections or for storage.

Copy a Restoration Hardware look and collect old books. Antique books are very easy to find and can at times literally cost pennies.

I found these old rusty horse shoes at a local flea market for two dollars apiece and turn them into a coat/hat rack.

I love the industrial look of these old metal card drawers. I use them to store craft supplies.

Check out this old wooden basket turned upside down. Add an inexpensive lamp kit from a hardware store and Voila!

Antique seltzer bottles are great to display in a bathroom or guestroom. They can run anywhere from $10 to $50 a piece.

Window shutters are fairly easy to find. Use them to prop behind a side table or place two or three side by side to create a headboard.

By the way, for all you SoCal locals, the Long Beach Antique Swap Meet is this weekend! Click here for a discount coupon.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : DIY Tips, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas

6 Comm

12th Jan2012

Paper Flower Magnets

by Dinah Wulf

After making a Hollow Book Safe out of antique books that I inherited, I kept the left over pages in case I wanted to use them to make other craft projects. I ended up making these cute Paper Flower Magnets out of a few of the recycled book pages and beer bottle caps.

I actually made these book page flowers a few months ago but I wanted to wait to post the tutorial to see if they would pass the test of time. So far so good! My toddler has tugged and pulled and played and they remain intact… phew!

So here is a quick picture tutorial on how I made them. The materials needed are:

Pages from books (colorful children’s books would work nicely too)
Flower Craft Punch
Bottle Caps
Decoupage Medium
Paint brush
Magnets
Glue
Rhinestone Embellishments (optional)

The photos are self-explanatory, so here are a few tips.

Tip One: Make sure to decoupage both sides of the flower.

Tip Two: If you are using layers, let the coats of decoupage medium dry completely in between coats and layers (approximately 15 minutes). Use two coats.

Tip Three: When adhering the magnet, use a strong glue bonding agent.

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Category : Crafts, Kids Craft Ideas, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Mod Podge, Recycled Book Pages, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

7 Comm

06th Jan2012

Recycled Magazine Frame

by Dinah Wulf

My brother and I decided to make Christmas gifts this year to exchange. Naturally, I had to do a recyling project. I have always wanted to try making something out of recycled magazine pages so I finally sat down and made this frame. I have to say, although slightly tedious, it was quite fun, especially when I looked at the results. My only regret is that I wished I didn’t use such a cheap wooden frame mainly because of the cardboard back. I should have shelled out a few more bucks for a nicer one. Even a thrift store one would have been better. Oh well. Anyway, here is how I made a recycled magazine frame.

Materials:

Any frame (again, I regret using the crappy one from IKEA)
Old Magazine
Tape
Paper Cutter
Decoupage medium
Small Paint brush

Gather a few magazines that you’ve already read and no longer want. I say a few, because for this project I used four different Rolling Stones magazines to get the colored pages I wanted.

I chose to cut my strips to the width of the frame. For example, the frame pictured here is for a 3X5 photo and the frame is a one inch wide, 4X7 frame. I ended up cutting 1”X7” stripes (approximately eight pages).

Next, start rolling your strips. The toughest part is the beginning; however it’s easy to get used to! I used a small narrow piece of tape to secure each roll. It was cleaner than attempting to glue each roll; and the tape can be easily hidden when attached to the frame.

For each roll, I laid it onto the frame so I knew when to stop. It helps to do this while you’re watching your favorite shows on TV.

After rolling all the strips, I glued each piece with a paint brush and decoupage medium one by one.

When you are finished adhering each roll, allow it to dry completely (about 15 minutes). Then, I used 2 coats of decoupage medium on top. Allow it to dry between coats.

Insert your picture, and there you have it! The perfect handmade gift!

By the way, I had to show my little plug to recycle. If you look closely on the top left side of this picture, you will see what I mean!

***I heart comments! If you have any comments, ideas, or suggestions, please feel free to comment below. Is there a craft project you want me to try? I’ll gladly do my best to take on your craft challenge and I’m always looking for new ideas! Just let me know! Also, if you have a project you’d like to share, please email me at dwulf@diyinspired.com.

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Category : DIY Artwork, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Gift Ideas, Mod Podge, paper crafts, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Upcycling Ideas

9 Comm

02nd Jan2012

Wine Bottle Frames

by Dinah Wulf

I made these wine bottle frames out of recycled wine bottles for a wine tasting party. It was also a bridal shower party, so I used them for a “who knows the bride best game”. I framed each question and placed the wine bottle frames all over the room so that the guests could mingle, talk, drink their wine, and play the game at the same time. Each guest wrote their answers next to the corresponding question number on their wine scoring card.

These wine bottle frames are very simple to make. The materials needed are, an empty wine bottle, a wooden frame, picture frame hangers, and string or ribbon. I purchased the wooden frames from IKEA which were only $1.99 for a set of three…CHEAP!

The pictures speak for themselves, but all you need to do is to screw each picture frame eyelet into the wooden frame by hand in the desired area. It takes a little pressure at first, but it should screw in fairly easily. Use a ribbon or string to hang the frame onto the wine bottle.

Also consider, decorating the bottle with wallpaper remnants or scrapbook paper, or ribbon or you can also paint the inside of your frame with chalkboard paint. I preferred to remove the wine label with warm soapy water. There is something beautiful about a plain wine bottle. Arrange your display with other wine bottles of different colors and sizes.

Another option is to frame a letter and place several bottles in a row to spell out the bride’s (guests or honor’s) new last name. Use decorative paper as a boarder. Make displays by using other recycled wine bottles and recycled wine crates.

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Category : DIY Budget Party, Special Occasions

Tags : Baby Shower Ideas, Birthday Party Ideas, Centerpieces, Dinah's Tutorials, Party Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas, Theme Party Ideas, Wedding Ideas

4 Comm

30th Dec2011

Salvaged Wood Toy Chest

by Dinah Wulf

The minute I received this toy chest in the mail I had to share it on my blog.

You see, my father has been a Cardiologist in the same hospital and nursing home in the same small town for almost forty years and as a result, he has developed some close familial relationships with his patients and their families.

It’s astounding, the gratitude my father receives from his work. Let me rephrase, actually it’s not “work”, rather his passion. Growing up, my Dad was always busy making rounds and seeing patients. I recall going to his office when I was a little girl and I would do some filing for him after school.

Over the years he has accrued literally thousands of patients, all he may not know by name, but he could tell you their ailments and medications by looking at their familiar faces. My Dad is not just a good Doctor; he is sought after because he truly cares about his patients. He is an admirable man. Because of this he receives many gifts. I want to share some parts of this letter my father received along with this hand-made toy chest. It was especially made for my Dad’s first grandchild, my daughter. I love it so much because it’s personal, it’s made from salvaged materials, and it is beautiful. I hope this salvaged wood toy chest inspires you as it has me.

Here are some excerpts from the letter.

“The family owns an old farm in West Virginia, about an hour’s drive from Cumberland. We have been berry picking there and the result is enclosed for your grandchild.”

“While hiking about the property we found several old barns that had fallen down. The rich color and age of the wood was ideal for small craft projects. We found documents indicating the barn was built in 1856, just prior to the Civil War.”

“I used turquoise (blue stones) to fill some of the old nail and knot holes. I found these stones in the early 1980’s while looking at a diamond mind for Chevron.”

Here are some pictures.

Side

Close up of the latch

Turquoise

Inside

Back

I have decided to use it as my daughter’s hope chest and fill it with treasured items for her when she is older Including the letter). It’s a little heavy for little fingers to open and close. Hopefully, it’ll be a reminder for her of how wonderful her Grandpa is!

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

5 Comm

21st Dec2011

Eco-friendly Gift Tags and Gift Wrapping

by Dinah Wulf

Here are some creative and inspiring eco-friendly gift tags and gift wrapping ideas in time for the holidays.

Check out these beautiful gift tags made out of recycled CD’s from our friends at Bellenza!

Also from Bellenza, here is a tutorial for making eco-friendly gift packaging with decoupage paper mosaics.

Personalize your gift wrapping. Check out this awesome idea from my brother. Shipped in a box, “Mike’s Private Stash” was filled with his favorite chocolate and candy. By the way, my hubby ate this entire box of candy in a couple days… did I mention there were probably twenty York peppermint patties inside and then some?!

Recycle old boxes and newspaper and make a cute gift basket. Embellish it with ribbon or craft a book page flower or book page bow.

Embellished Keys for gift tags. I don’t know about you but I can probably dig up a handful of keys in my junk drawer that I have no idea where they belong to. These sparkly lovelies are from My Salvaged Treasures.

Here are some unique ideas from A Subtle Revelry. Use cupcake wrappers to embellish a gift or use a shirt to wrap it up.

Finally, here are some pretty brown paper packages tied up with string from Pintrest.

Happy gift wrapping!

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Christmas, Gift Ideas, Recycled Book Pages, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas

4 Comm

19th Dec2011

Candy Mason Jar

by Dinah Wulf

Yet another recycled Mason jar project here! I saw this DIY project on the Nate Show last week and I’ve been dying to try it! I recently made these frosted Mason jar tea light holders and I had a few Mason jars left over.

This project was super easy and took little time and money (my favorite combo). Here is how you make a Candy Mason Jar.

Materials:

Clean Mason Jar
Drill
Knob
Sand Paper
Spray Paint (optional)

Remove the label from any recycled jar. For label removal instructions click here.

On the Nate Show, they used sand paper to remove the printed image on the jar lid to give it a distressed industrial look. I tried this… and gave up. I tried three types of sand paper and my hand got tired and cramped. I even tried watching TV to distract me and it didn’t help.

I decided to use some left over silver metallic spray paint instead. The sanding wasn’t a complete waste of time because the sanded surface allowed the spray paint to adhere well.

After the spray paint is dry, drill a hole in the center of the lid. I suggest putting the lid on the jar and then drill. You have more control that way. The drill bit size will depend on the knob you choose. On a side note, Habitat for Humanity Restore is a GREAT resource for inexpensive knobs. I have purchased them for as low as fifty cents apiece!

I found these great knobs on sale for $2.50 each… score!

Insert and tighten the knob onto the lid.

Screw the lid onto the jar. There you have it! Instant candy (or whatever) jar!

You can also frost your Mason jar for a different look.

I added a tag, ribbon, and candy to give away as a gift.

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Category : Crafts

Tags : Dinah's Tutorials, Gift Ideas, Mason Jar Crafts, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas

15 Comm

15th Dec2011

30 DIY Gift Ideas

by Dinah Wulf

Click on the link for DIY inspiration and tutorials for these 30 DIY gift ideas. All of them are clever, creative, and won’t break the bank. Only have ten minutes to make your gift? Scroll all the way down to see quick and easy budget-friendly DIY gifts by Overstock.com. Here we go… 30 DIY Gift Ideas!

Scrabble Art custom to fit any type of room

Clever Coat Hangers out of repurposed materials

Inexpensive Record Album Art

Make a Creative Clock out of just about anything

Sew a Tote Bag

Make custom Wall Art

Sew an Envelope Pillow

Make an eco-friendly Light Bulb Vase

Easy DIY Mason Jar Soap Pump

Repurposed Frame Tray out of your flea market finds

DIY Record Album Bowl from your old records

Easy and inexpensive Nursery Letters

Beautiful Book Page Wreath

Make an Ornament or add a personalized touch with a Scrabble Ornament

Do it yourself Votive Candle Holder

Make a secret and unique Hollowed Book Safe

Picture Frame Necklace Holder

Make a Coffee Filter Wreath for less than $5.00

Scrollwork Mirror from inexpensive items from Home Depot

Recycled Tote Bag out of plastic grocery bags

Only have ten minutes? Check out these ten amazing ten minute holiday crafts from Overstock.com!

Ten 10-minute Holiday Crafts infographic from O.co

Hope you enjoyed these 30 DIY Gift Ideas!

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Category : Crafts

Tags : Father's Day, Gift Ideas, Mother's Day, Recycled Book Pages, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas

6 Comm

09th Dec2011

Scrabble Christmas Ornaments

by Dinah Wulf

So I made this Scrabble art for my guest room and had some left over tiles. After playing around with some words, and with the holidays coming up, I decided to make these Scrabble Christmas ornaments.

These are SUPER simple and you can get creative with them. All you need is Scrabble tiles, a few craft materials, and your imagination. If you don’t have an old unused Scrabble game, you can find them at thrift stores. Sometimes they’ll even have a plastic bag of extra Scrabble tiles and no board that you can purchase for next to nothing! If you have no luck at a thrift store, and you don’t have a friend looking to get rid of theirs, craft stores actually sell wooden letter tiles that look like Scrabble tiles without the numbers. They are only about two dollars for a bag.

I used some ribbon and decorative wire for mine. I also used some scrapbook paper scraps. It’s easiest to use hot glue because it dries quickly and adheres very well to the tiles. I glued both the ribbon/wire and the Scrabble tiles to scrapbook paper and then cut the excess paper using a cutting knife and cutting mat. For the “Noel” ornament I used a craft punch for the circles.

Here is how they turned out.

Other Scrabble Craft Ideas:

Scrabble letter Wine charms
Scrabble letter Keychains
Scrabble tile coasters
Scrabble jewelry

Have any other Scrabble craft ideas? Please leave a comment!

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Category : Crafts, Holidays, Kids Craft Ideas

Tags : Christmas, Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Recycling Ideas

9 Comm

08th Dec2011

Paint Stick Crafts

by Dinah Wulf

If you know me (or read this blog) you know what a cheapskate I am…I mean “budget conscious”. So naturally, anytime I find a craft material I can get for FREE, I’ll find SOMETHING to do with it.

Anytime you buy paint, the guy (or gal) who mixes it will always throw in a few paint sticks. If you bat an eye, you may be able to get a few extra to use for some craft projects.

I also saw on the Nate Berkus show not long ago (but couldn’t find a picture) was a challenge where one of the guests used paint sticks to reface a small dresser. It looked great! I was instantly inspired.

Here are some creative ideas I came across when looking for some more inspiration. I think I’m going to make the paint stick monogram. I like the idea of staining them a cool color and using hardware for that industrial touch.

Paint Stick Monogrammed Letters

How cool are these? I’m definitely going to take this project on (plus the letter “W” is easy…tee hee).

Plant Crate

So useful and creative, you can make a paint stick crate to hold just about anything.

Starburst Mirror

So cool! I’ve seen the BBQ skewer one, but I like this one better. This black one is from OurHumbleAbowed and the white one from CentsationalGirl.

Paint Stick Lampshade

This is G-R-E-A-T! Love it!

Paint Stick Art

So colorful and creative!

Paint Stick Ornaments

With the holidays coming up, I thought this would be a cute idea for a craft night with the kiddos.

Pass it on!

Category : Crafts, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Christmas, Craft Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurposing Ideas

8 Comm

05th Dec2011

Frosted Mason Jars

by Dinah Wulf

Mason jars are so beautiful in their own rustic way. There are so many ways you can recycle glass jars. Mason Jars in particular can be useful to store craft supplies, hold flowers, dispense soap, or use as illuminaries.

These Classico Sauce jars are my favorite.

I have a cupboard full because I know I’ll find a place for all of them! I decided to try frosting a few to see how they would turn out. Here is what I did.

First clean and rinse your jars with soap and water (that is, after you eat the sauce!). To remove the label, soak them in warm soapy water for about an hour. Jars may vary with soaking time. Most labels come off very easy. Use the rough side of a sponge to gently scrub off the label.

Next, dry each Mason jar thoroughly.

If desired, you can use stickers or decals to create a design. I used simple curling ribbon and wrapped the jar, securing it with tape.

Spray paint the jars in a well-ventilated area holding the can approximately 12 inches away. Allow them to dry.

Remove the ribbon, sticker(s), or decal(s). There you have it!

So easy! Mix them with unfrosted jars and insert tea lights for a pretty glow or consider making mason jar centerpieces for a wedding. Just add flowers!

Pass it on!

Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Centerpieces, Craft Ideas, Mason Jar Crafts, Recycling Ideas

7 Comm

02nd Dec2011

Easy DIY Christmas Ornaments for Kids

by Dinah Wulf

A few weeks ago, I wrote a post about Crafting with Toilet Paper Rolls. I thought the gift tag by All Things Paper was adorable so I thought I’d try and make it. I thought this would be a perfect holiday Christmas craft to do with the kids… in fact I think I may mention it for my next play date. It’s really easy and not too messy for little hands.

All you need is: toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls, glue, ribbon, hole punch, embellishments (rhinestones, glitter, paint, etc.)

First, bend the tube and cut out rings at the desired width. I cut out seven rings with one toilet paper roll.

Next, arrange your design on a flat surface. I chose to make a flower.

Carefully glue each piece together. In my case, I like to use hot glue because it’s easy and dries very quickly. I carefully glued every other flower petal.

Embellish the ornament any way you wish. I used a simple rhinestone because I like the organic look of the brown paper. Consider painting or glittering as well.

Using a hole punch or craft punch, punch holes for your ribbon.

String your ornament and hang! Tah Dah! Also consider stringing several flowers and use them as a decoration for a party. P.S. Remind me to do my nails before I post a picture tutorial…

Pass it on!

Category : Crafts, Holidays, Kids Craft Ideas

Tags : Christmas, Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, paper crafts, Paper Flowers, Recycling Ideas

12 Comm

28th Nov2011

Repurposed Pallets

by Dinah Wulf

I love the idea of repurposed pallets into furniture or art. When I first thought of doing my own project, I would drive around town looking near the dumpsters of commercial and retail buildings. The last time I went to Home Depot, I asked if I could buy them and they said depending on the type, they ran from $15 to $60 a piece. Well, it really goes without saying that I’m too cheap for that so I kept on with my search.

Utilizing my resources, I called one of my best friends who works for a high end appliance manufacturer. Low and behold! She texts me right away with a picture and says, “Here is what we are about to throw away. Do you want any of these?” My answer? “On my way.” So my little one and I hopped in the car. To this destination… aka… free pallet heaven.

Thanks to my friend who, by the way was in heels, I was able to jam two and a half in the back of my car. Now… what to do with them? A few days later they are still sitting in my garage awaiting my attention. In the meantime I searched for some inspiration. Here are some amazing ideas I found, but for now I’m still undecided.

Pallet Coffee tables

[Via]

Pallet Art

Flea Market Finds magazine

[Via]

Pintrest

Pallet Dining Table

Pintrest

Pallet Benches

[Via]

Pintrest

Pallet Headboard

[Via]

Pallet Garden

Pintrest

Pallet Coat Hanger

Pintrest

Pallet Shelving

[Via]

Pallet Entertainment Center

[Via]

P.S. Happy Birthday, Trina Bean! Thanks for getting down and dirty with me. I heart you, best friend!!!!

Have you signed up for my emails? I’d love it if you did!

Pass it on!

Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Refurbishing Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

15 Comm

23rd Nov2011

Recycled Book Page Flowers

by Dinah Wulf

I have done so many recycled book page projects including wreaths to magnets and other embellishments! This one is one of my favorite. I saw these paper flowers in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine several months ago and I thought I’d finally try it out. I thought they would be perfect for gift wrapping. It’s a unique way to add personality to your gift. I kept all the pages from the Hollow Book Safe I made a while back so it worked out perfectly. Here is how you make these recycled book page flowers in three easy steps.

The only materials you need are:

Recycled Book Pages
Water Color
Water
Paint Brush
Scissors

Step One:

Simply water color both front and back of the book pages and let it dry completely.

Step Two:

After the pages are try, cut out petal shapes with scissors.

Step Three:

One by one, shape a rose by bending and folding each petal and pinching the bottom into the desired shape.

I hope you try it out! The color possibilities are endless!

Other DIY Pretty Paper Flowers:

Tissue Paper Flowers
Napkin Tissue Paper Flowers
Accordion Paper Flowers
Paper Cherry Blossom Display
Hanging Paper Flowers
Paper Flower Ornaments

Pass it on!

Category : Crafts

Tags : Gift Ideas, paper crafts, Recycled Book Pages, Recycling Ideas

7 Comm

21st Nov2011

Book Page Wreath

by Dinah Wulf

I’ve been looking for the perfect book page wreath to make because I have a damaged antique book with beautiful gold leafed pages. The book is a book of poems by Keats, however it is falling apart and some pages are missing.

There are several book page wreaths out there for inspiration. I finally came across one at this little boutique in Tustin (of course I didn’t have my camera on me at the time to take a picture). Because I’m such a cheapskate, of course I didn’t buy it rather I did peep at the fifty dollar price tag! Ha! I’ll make it myself for much less!

I wanted to get some tips before I tried to make it, so I did a little research. I couldn’t find an exact tutorial on the one I wanted to make, but I did find some good tips from Living With Lindsay and The Penny Parlor.

Believe it or not I had everything I needed already, so I only spent a total of $1.04 for this project!!! Here is what you need.

Plumbing Insulation Tube
Scissors
Duct Tape
Book
Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
Sharp Knife

The Penny Parlor had a brilliant idea of buying a “foam tube” from Home Depot. I had no idea what department a “foam tube” would be in and after research, it’s in the plumbing department. Here is a picture so you know what to ask for.

I chose the thickest tube for $1.94 ($2.08 with tax). It is six feet long, the perfect size for two (maybe even three)wreaths, hence the $1.04 TOTAL I spent for this Book Page Wreath.

Start by cutting the tube in half. Set aside one tube for another project. Carefully and gradually peel away the adhesive strip and stick the two sides together. I say “carefully and gradually” because this sucker’s extremely sticky.

Next, tape the two ends together with duct tape. It will look something like this.

Don’t panic like I did! If you pinch and massage the tube, it will form into a circle and end up looking like this.

Next, cut your pages out of the book. I found that the fastest and cleanest way is to use a sharp knife.

One by one, roll each page to make a cone shape and flatten the bottom part.

Using a hot glue gun, glue the cones onto the foam wreath. After your first layer, turn the wreath over. You have just finished the back of the wreath. I used approximately 35 pages for the first layer.

Start your second layer as pictured below (approximately 30 pages).

For the third, fourth, and fifth layer, you will glue the cone over the ring as shown below. After the fifth layer, “QC” your wreath and fill any open gaps with another cone.