So Many Ways To Use A Tork Craft Mini Rotary Tool
The Tork Craft Mini Rotary Tool is one of those versatile tools that can be used in so many ways, whether you want to use it for crafting, as a way to bring in extra income or to do repairs and maintenance in and around the home.
Crafty Ways to Recycle Plastic Bottles and Containers
There are more and more craft ideas for recycling plastic bottles and containers and it's a fun way to reduce the amount of plastic waste in a home - give it a try!
Repurpose or Reuse Plastic ZipSeal Bags
ZipSeal or Ziploc bags are just another plastic item to pollute our planet but they are useful and there are plenty of ways to repurpose or reuse these in the home.
Make Decorative Shelves Using Cardboard
Decorative cardboard shelves are easy to make and a great way of using any cardboard boxes you have at home.
Modernise or Update a Chest of Drawers
It doesn't take much to transform an ugly chest of drawers into a modern and stylish piece for a home.
Recycling Crafts Using Plastic Food Containers
Plastic food containers are just one of the hundreds of plastic items that end up on the dump but with a little creativity, you can turn them into something practical for the home.
Update or Modernise Plain Pine Furniture
There are so many ways that you can give dated or old-fashioned and affordable pine furniture and new look and we show you a few tricks.
Crafty Ways to Use Bubble Wrap In and Around the Home
Bubble wrap is an overlooked yet practical for so many uses in the home, from insulating a home in several ways to helping you be comfortable. Read on for some great ideas.
Turn Old Bowls, Glasses, and Vases into Decorative Holders
Recycling items that you no longer use is a wonderful way to try something new and these decorative holders can be used indoors or outdoors and are easy to make in an hour or so.
Recycle an Old Bookcase or Make this Project New
Repurposing old furniture is good for the environment and this no longer used bookcase turns into a fun produce cart for a little girl.
Hosting a Celebration that is a Sustainabration!
Colour themes, brightly coloured balloons and embellished drinks go hand in hand with any celebration, but how sustainable are they?
Apply Textured, Paintable Wallpaper to Furniture
Wallpaper doesn't have to be just for walls and textured, paintable wallpaper brings detail when applied to plain furniture.
Update an Old Table with Graphic Mosaic Tiles
Take an old table or two and cover with graphic white or black mosaic tiles for an eye-catching feature for the home.
Gilders Paste is Great for Furniture
Gilders paste is a mixture of wax and metallic or organic pigments that can be applied to metal, wood, glass, ceramics, leather, and more.
Give An Old Coffee Table a Makeover
These days it is all about upcycling and we offer some crafty ways to give an old coffee table a makeover.
Art and Crafts with Nespresso Pods or Capsules
Way back in 2013, I ran a few articles on various arts and crafts that used Nespresso capsules and since then this craze has exploded even further with ideas for arts and crafts.
Upcycle Storage Cupboards or Bookshelves into Display Cabinets
Still busy turning the DIY Divas workshop space into a lounge, now I am going to show you how I upcycled my two workshop and tool storage cabinets into display cabinets for the living room.
Make New Doors for Old Furniture
There are plenty of ways to give old furniture a new look and in this article, we explain how to install new doors for a more modern piece.
Recycle Wrapping Paper and Christmas Cards
If there are two things you will see plenty of at this time of the year, it is wrapping paper and Christmas cards and we have a few ideas on how you can save and use these.
Christmas Craft: Recycle Wooden Coat Hangers into Christmas Stars
With the trend for recycling, what better way to put this into action that to make your Christmas decor using items you already have in the home.
Upcycle and Old Lampshade with Twine and Wood
Upcycling is all about taking something old or useless and giving it a new purpose, like using a lampshade frame and using natural twine or wood to craft an organic lampshade.
Upcycle Old Shirts into Kiddies Clothing
Anyone handy with a sewing machine will enjoy this post that looks at upcycling old shirts into kiddies clothing.
Quick Project: Make Rope Storage Baskets for Child's Bedroom
To make rope storage baskets all you need is a recycled plastic bottle or container, a large piece of cardboard and fabric and some rope.
Upcycle an Old Coffee Table with Tile
These days it is all about upcycling, taking something old and perhaps unwanted and turning it into a feature piece for your home, like this old coffee table given a new life with a tile top.
Crafty Ideas For Re-Purposing Glass Food Jars
Everyone purchases grocery items that come in glass food jars and there are so many ways to re-purpose these into pretty storage containers for the home.
Turn An Old Piano Seat Into A Hairdressing Station
Here's how you can re-purpose an old piece of furniture, in this case, a piano seat, into a modern stool that is also a hairdressing station for all your hair stuff.
Ways To Repurpose Old Sweaters
When sorting through old sweaters and deciding which are still good enough to wear, don't throw old ones out - try one of these great ways to repurpose old sweaters.
Recycle or Upcycle Ice Cream Tubs
Don't throw out those ice cream tubs when there are so many ways to recycle or upcycle these for use in the home.
Recycle Boxes to Make Gift Boxes
The cost of ready-made gift boxes makes it an expensive purchase for many, but rather save the money and make gift boxes recycling boxes you probably already have at home.
Upcycling: Make Wooden Lids for Tins
When you have vintage tins or biscuit tins, making a wooden lid for these means you can use them after the biscuits are gone!
Recycle a Tree Stump into Stylish Side Table
It's so easy to recycle a tree stump into a stylish side table for a rustic yet sophisticated piece for your living room.
Don't Throw out your HTH or Paint Buckets
If you regularly buy an HTH bucket or have some paint buckets leftover, check underneath to ensure they have a recycle #5 stamped on the base and you can use these to store or grow plants.
Ways to Recycle Plastic Bags at Home
Recycling continues to be a lifestyle for many, with ideas for using plastic bags at home just one of the ways you can be involved in saving the environment.
What Could Be Hiding Underneath Stain or Varnish
There may come a time when you buy a piece of secondhand furniture only to be blown away by what is hidden underneath coats of stain or varnish.
Recycled Tyre and Materials for Unique Outdoor Seating
Who knew you could turn old tyres and materials into unique outdoor seating.
Make Reclaimed Pallet Furniture Look Good
I'm all for the fact that reclaimed pallet wood is great for making furniture, but at least make sure it looks good too!
Make a Bird Feeder using Plastic Salad Containers
When buying certain ready-made foods, they are presented in plastic salad containers that are great for turning into bird feeders.
How To Upcycle a Food Can into a Cheese Grater
It's amazing how clever people are becoming with recycling, and this project to turn a tin can into a cheese grater is simply creative brilliance.
Colourful Craft Ideas for Recycling Plastic Bottles
Everyone on the planet needs to recycle plastic more than we do to keep plastic off our landfills and out of our oceans, so here are some colourful crafts that use plastic bottles and bottle caps.
Recycle Aluminium Cans and Lids into Wind Spinner
Aluminium cans are something used every day in most households, so it's nice to find a way to recycle these at home rather than toss them into the dustbin. Why not make a wind spinner using cans and lids?
Recycling Projects for the Kids
With a week to go of lockdown, and who knows how much longer until the kids go back to school, here's a selection of clever recycling projects the kids can do with plastic bottles.
Recycle a Plastic Bottle into a Family Toothbrush Holder
When a family shares a bathroom, you always need extra storage for everyone's bathroom essentials, like this recycled plastic bottle turned into a family toothbrush holder.
Make Beautiful Roses using Egg Cartons
One of our most popular posts ever was that of recycling egg cartons to make beautiful roses that can be used to embellish decor accessories or be painted to look good on their own.
All our Favourite Recycling or Upcycling Projects
Recycling - or upcycling - is all about repurposing items in new ways rather than throwing them out, so we compiled a list of all our favourite projects.
So Many Easy Ways to Transform a Bookcase
A bookcase is one of those essential furniture pieces that every home should have, and we have some easy way to turn a plain bookcase into a standout feature you will love.
Use Fabric Scraps and Old Clothes to Make a Rag Rug
Rag rugs are a very easy way to make use of any leftover fabric scraps or put old clothes to good use, and rag rugs are very easy to make.
100% recycled craft centre
Made using recycled plastic milk containers and cardboard boxes, this craft centre has plenty of storage compartments for all your craft supplies and is easily carried around.
Yoghurt cup drawer divider or organiser
Use yoghurt cups to make drawer dividers, craft and hobby storage containers, makeup or jewellery organisers. All you need is a tray of yoghurt cups, a glue gun and a can of Rust-Oleum 2X spray paint to make nifty organisers that you can use for storage.
Old Hutch becomes an Amazing Fireplace Feature
See how an old pine hutch is transformed into an amazing fireplace feature at very little cost and with readily available materials.
Turn old Bicycle Wheel into Unique Wall Clock
If you've got an old bicycle that you want to toss out - see how you can transform this into a unique wall clock for your home.
DIY Reclaimed Pallet Garden Lounger
Here's a comfortable twist on the pallet chair - this reclaimed pallet wood lounger is a great place to relax on weekends.
Unusual yet practical ways to recycle glass Wine Bottles
If you love to recycle, try one of these unusual yet practical ideas to recycle glass wine bottles.
Use old CDs to make unique Wall Art
If you still have some old CDs lying around that you don't use anymore, here are some great ways to turn them into unique and interesting wall art.
Quick Project: Turn a washing machine drum into a braai
Before you chuck out that old washing machine, see how you can use the stainless steel drum to make a braai for your patio or deck.
Upcycle old furniture into statement pieces
Don't throw out an old piece of furniture when you can upcycle with a new look to transform it into a statement piece for your home.
Upholstered ottoman made from pallet wood
While I'm not a fan of finished pallet wood, I do like the idea of using pallet wood for projects where you can save some money and this upholstered ottoman is one of those projects.
Make Stylish Bags with recycled plastic bags
Find out how to make your own stylish bags using recycled waste plastic - a project you can easily do at home.
Great Ideas using Leftover Bricks
Got some leftover bricks from a project and not sure what to do with them? Take a look at some great ideas for using leftover bricks.
Make a designer clutch from recycled materials
Use recycled materials to make your own clutch bag for a special occasion.
Cardboard Crafts for Kids
If you are looking for ways to recycle cardboard and cardboard boxes, check out some of these crazy cool crafts for kids.
Recycled Plastic Bottle into Tool Caddy
Here's a wonderful way to recycle plastic bottles and make a handy tool caddy for your home workshop.
Quick Project: How to make a no-mess pour nozzle
Recycle a plastic bottle into a no-mess pour nozzle and forget about cleaning up.
Recycle Plastic Bottles to Organise your Home Office
Recycle plastic shampoo or cleaning bottles to make this handy organiser for your home office, craft or hobby room.
Cardboard and rope baskets
Recycle cardboard boxes into practical storage baskets with rope or twine for affordable home storage.
Recycle Plastic Bottle for Bathroom Caddy
Here's a fun way to recycle plastic bottles to make attractive storage caddies for a bathroom.
Clothing Rail using a Tree Branch
Make a stylish clothing rail using a tree branch to hang all your clothes and add a unique touch to your bedroom or dressing room.
Upcycling a dated secondhand dresser
Upcycling, particularly if you have found a secondhand bargain, is a great way to add new pieces of furniture to your home.
Quick Project: Upcycle a Pine Dresser with Paint and Paper!
Do you have a pine dresser or chest of drawers at home in desperate need of a makeover? Try this paint and paper method and completely transform a plain piece of furniture!
Shoebox transforms into a Beauty Product Holder
I'm all for recycling in any way that I can and enjoy projects using cardboard boxes, like this cardboard box turned into a handy beauty product holder.
Quick Project: Nail Polish Carousel
This quick and easy 10-minute project shows how to make a nail polish carousel using a fidget spinner and a few items you probably already have.
Ways to Recycle Plastic Crates
While sorting out my current kitchen storage, I came across some plastic crates that I want to recycle and found some great ideas for recycling plastic crates.
Recycle all those Cardboard Boxes
Christmas is done and dusted, so here are some projects to make use of all those left over cardboard boxes.
Refresh tired Bathmat
Grab some colourful wool and give your tired bathmat a fluffy, luxurious makeover!
Quick Project: Decorative Cardboard Vases
These decorative cardboard vases are easy to make and will add colour and interest to a windowsill or shelf.
Easy tool caddy using recycled materials
This handy tool caddy is made using food cans and a scrap of plywood and we show you how easy it is to make your own.
Luminous coffee table with washing machine drum
If you're replacing your old washing machine we show you a way to turn a stainless steel drum into a luminous coffee table.
Storage with aluminium cans
In this article we show you how to upcycle aluminium tins into attractive storage containers.
Quick Project: Pallet Wall Clock
This gorgeous, rustic wall clock is made using blocks of wood cut from reclaimed pallets. That means it doesn't cost anything to make apart from the mechanism and hands.
Upcycle wire coat hangers
If you have clothes dry cleaned, chances are you have a collection of wire coat hangers. We found some great ways to upcycle wire coat hangers.
Quick Project: Turn a Door into a Shelf
Here's a quick and easy project to repurpose an old door into a practical shelf unit.
Tame your storage with glass jars!
Recycling glass containers and jars for storage is still a wonderful way to keep your kitchen, bathroom and home office neat and organised.
Recycle an old fan into a colourful planter
Anyone who has a fan knows they don't last long these days - so turn that broken fan into a colourful planter for your patio or balcony.
Make a circular rag rug
Rag rugs are fun to make and you can use old clothes to weave your own colourful rag rug for the home.
Repurpose old t-shirts
Before you toss out any old t-shirts, take a look at some great ideas to repurpose old t-shirts.
Using old clothes in new ways
Every year we throw away clothes and textiles that could be used in other ways. In fact, there are now companies that recycle old clothes into fashionable items for the home.
Designer rug made from old clothes
Designed for show at the Milan Furniture Fair, this rag rug is made from old clothes.
Repurposed furniture
When you get given a piece of furniture, or find a decent bargain, it's nice to know that you can repurpose or upcycle the piece to make it more relevant to your home.
Cardboard tubes = Makeup holder
Kitchen towels, wrapping paper, or anything else on a cardboard tube - use the tubes to make a makeup holder.
Quick Project: Updated lamp
In this project we show you how easy it can be to upcycle a cheap lamp into your own quirky creation. We're using acrylic craft paint for the scrap wood battens for our upcycled lamp.
Quick Tip: Recycled coffee can storage
Here's a way to keep a desktop neat and tidy, and to recycle aluminium coffee cans - turn them into practical storage for a desk shelf.
Easy reclaimed pallet project
Making this reclaimed pallet coffee table has to be the easiest project ever and should only take about 15-minutes.
Recycled bird feeder
Recycle yoghurt cartons into a cute, colourful bird feeder to hang on tree branches.
Make own wooden lids
Make your own wooden lids for when recycling glass jars and containers, or anything else that needs an attractive lid.
Quick Project: New Year Decorations
There's always some leftover wrapping paper after the holiday season, so here's how to use leftover wrapping paper to make party decorations for your New Year celebrations.
Wood Pallet Chair
Using the French Tufting method and a wooden pallet, you can easily make a comfortable chair for a casual indoor or outdoor space, and it's ideal for a children's bedroom or playroom.
Washing machine drum lamp
If you enjoy being creative with items that normally get thrown out, you'll love this lamp made using the drum from a washing machine.
Old Woollens
As winter slowly draws to a close, before you toss out those holey woollens, take a look at how you can repurpose or reuse them.
Make a Macramé Plant Hanger
Once again trending, macramé has taken a new twist (excuse the pun!) and you can use t-shirt yarn or plarn to make macramé hangers.
Pallet Wood Dog Bed
If you've got some pallet wood - make this easy dog bed with galvanised pipe fittings.
Reclaimed Wood Table
If you love taking something old and turning it into a beautiful, practical piece of furniture, then this reclaimed wood dining table is a project you will enjoy.
Re-think secondhand bargains
Secondhand furniture is a great way to start off if you're moving into your first apartment or flat. You'd be surprised at how easily you can transform these fabulous finds into furniture for a home.
Toy Box made from Pallet Wood
Using pallet wood is a great way to practice your skills without spending a fortune on timber. Ask around, or browse the Internet, for local suppliers of pallets.
Upcycle a steel filing cabinet
Here's a way to buy a secondhand, steel filing cabinet and put this stylish storage unit to good use in your home office, or even for storage in the home.
Quick Project: DIY Industrial Style Shelf
Use reclaimed pallets or scaffolding planks to make a stylish industrial shelf.
Practical ways to recycle old oil drums
A few years back I featured an article on recycling oil drums into cabinets. Now, there are so many additional options to recycle old oil drums.
Bottle top clocks
Use the plastic tops from cold drinks and food containers to make a unique timepiece for your home. This is a great craft idea for the kids too!
Stylish pallet bench
Use reclaimed wood pallets to make this stylish garden bench in an hour or two, and provide easy and inexpensive seating for a garden or entertainment area.
Reclaimed wood pallet Christmas trees
Reclaimed wood pallets provide an inexpensive DIY option for festive decor. Make wood pallet Christmas trees or Christmas card displays.
Creative ideas for offcuts
When cutting timber or board to size, you usually end up with assorted offcuts. We put together a collection of creative ways to use offcuts for quick and easy DIY projects for a home.
Tyre ottoman with jeans fabric seat
We will be making this tyre ottoman as part of our December DIY Kids workshop. Using an old tyre, and recycling a pair of jeans for the fabric, this fun ottoman offers the perfect seating for a kid's bedroom or playroom.
Recycled can succulents
This weekend I was looking for ideas for using aluminium cans that I collected. The final result was to make these recycled aluminium can succulents.
Shoebox storage
Don't toss out those shoeboxes, use them to make attractive storage boxes for your home office or craft room.
Vintage cutting board
This beautiful, vintage cutting board can be made from reclaimed wood, hardwood offcuts, or pine from your local Builders.
Recycled plastic bottle bird feeder
I like to recycle plastic as much as possible, and love this idea for using plastic cold drink bottles to make a bird feeder for the local bird life.
Old tyres become a handy outdoor table
Builders have a great idea for using those old, worn out tyres, which have been sitting in your garage for ages. Using a few, easy steps, a couple of old tyres, supawood offcuts and some castors, you can build your very own braai storage unit.
Recycle old blinds into lighting and furniture for a home.
Before you toss out those old aluminium, vertical, bamboo or wood blinds, take a look at ways to recycle these into unique light fittings and furniture for a home.
It's easy to upcycle furniture
It is becoming increasingly easy to refinish furniture, no matter how banged up and scratched it is. Pieces that look almost beyond repair can be given a new lease on life using a variety of products that you will find at your local Builders Warehouse.
Working with wood pallets
When working with reclaimed timber pallets you have to not only inspect and select the right pallets, you have to exercise caution when breaking these down. Here are some tips to keep you safe and make the job easier.
Creative cardboard for kids
There was a time when play was simple. Children had hours of fun playing with nothing more than a cardboard box. We put together some creative ways to encourage kids to use their imagination with just a couple of cardboard boxes. Have fun!
Recycled paint container stools
If you are doing any painting projects this year, here's a great way to recycle plastic paint containers into comfortable stools. I made stools for outdoors, but you can make them for any room and particularly for a child's bedroom or playroom.
Recycled used ballpoint pens
When you work in an office there are guaranteed to be plenty of plastic pens tossed out. Here are some unique ways to recycle old pens into very useful items.
Reclaimed wood placemats
Got some wood left over from a previous project? Use scrap wood into decorative placemats for your dining table.
Reclaimed pallet holder
We braved the chill and had a braai this weekend. While carting herbs and spices around I realised I could make a holder using reclaimed pallet scraps. You can use this reclaimed wood holder for herbs and spices, for serviettes, or anything else you can think of.
Reclaimed pallet wheelbarrow
Following on from the article on working with pallets, we used a reclaimed pallet to make a rustic wheelbarrow that can be planted up with colourful annuals, or filled with herbs and veggies for a small kitchen garden.
Aluminium can plant holder
Here's a way to repurpose aluminium cans into an attractive plant holder to add a touch of greenery to any room in a home.
Garage door repurposed into house number
One of my neighbours had their garage door replaced. The workmen were tossing out the old door, which was made of Meranti. I couldn't see all the wood going to waste, so I asked for some of the panels to use for projects.
Turn old tyres into extraordinary seating
Put old tyres to good use as seating for a home. With a few tools, supplies and some DIY savvy you can transform disused tyres into extraordinary high-profile seating. Painted in vibrant colours, these original seats create a unique effect in an apartment or on a balcony.
New uses for old pantyhose
I am unfortunately one of those people who attracts ladders in my pantyhose, so looking for new ways to use old pantyhose was a great idea.
Cardboard storage tutorial
Get friendly with your local supermarket and recycle corrugated cardboard boxes into practical storage boxes and containers for your home.
Home crafts using Lego blocks
If the kids have grown out of playing with their Lego blocks, here are just a few of the crafty ways to use Lego blocks for home projects.
Upcycle lampshade frames into plant stands
If, like me, you enjoy browsing secondhand stores you'll know that you can pick up lampshades for practically nothing. This project shows how to use old lampshade wire frames to make trendy plant stands.
Homemade pressure washer
There are times when a high pressure washer - even a small one - comes in handy. We show you how to make a homemade pressure washer.
Fresh ideas for using pallets
Ideas for using pallets go around and around, but it's nice to come across new and unique ways to use reclaimed pallets for projects in and around the home.
Add stencil detail to projects
Using reclaimed or pallets is still trending and in this article you will find out how easy it is to add your own stencil wording to whitewashed planks.
Unique ways to craft wood lamps and lights
We offer a selection of handmade wooden lamps and lights that you can make as a weekend project using basic tools and materials you can find at your nearest Builders, or source locally.
Make a reclaimed pine riddling rack
Riddling racks were used for aiding the fermenting process when making champagne. The simple design for a riddling rack makes them ideal as wine racks, and you can easily make your own riddling rack.
Recycled plastic herb pots
I have become a fan of KFC's kream balls and the plastic containers can easily be upcycled into plant holders for small herbs or succulents.
Make your own glass bottle cutter
Recycle glass wine bottles into glasses and chandeliers by making your own wine bottle cutter. This solid wine bottle cutter can be made using a few supplies available at your local Builders.
Concrete and reclaimed wood coat rack
Here's a fun and practical way to combine reclaimed wood and concrete. Use incandescent light bulbs to cast concrete knobs for a handy coat rack.
Divinus... A table made from recycled material
The idea behind Divinus was to design a product made using everyday waste material that would allow the user to take part in its construction, and invite them to simply and creatively experience the concepts of sustainability.
Plastic paint container = pendant lamp
I love featuring projects that upcycle plastic waste in new ways and this project shows how I turned a plastic paint container into a colourful, trendy pendant lamp.
Upcycle tyres for garden furniture and planters
There are so many ways to upcycle tyres in fun and practical ways. In this article we look at recycling tyres for the garden, whether using tyres for planters or furniture.
Upcycle white plastic bottles in an outdoor butterfly ornament
Authors Angie Franke and Monique Day-Wilde show you how to upcycle plastic milk containers into a wonderful outdoor ornament filled with white butterflies.
Recycle plastic bottles into cupcake holders
Use 2 litre coke, diet coke or coke zero plastic bottles and turn them into cupcake holders. When cut properly the containers are airtight and can be sealed with a strip of ribbon.
Recycle plastic bottles into pencil holders
Mom and kids can spend some quality time crafting these cute pencil and pen holders, and re-purpose plastic bottles at the same time. They’re easy to make and you can design your own monsters and then fill them with pencils and crayons.
Plastic bottle party favour containers
I am revisiting a previous project using plastic cold drink bottles as party favour containers. In this project they are sprayed in vibrant colours with Rust-Oleum 2X spray paint.
Cardboard tube seat or stool
Cardboard furniture hovers on the fringe of design, but recycled cardboard furniture is definitely popular. This cardboard seat or stool is made using recycled cardboard boxes and tubes.
Old glass gets a new look
Give old glassware and accessories a
new life and add something quirky and
colourful to your dining table.
Re-purpose furniture in new ways
If you like browsing for secondhand bargains, here's how to turn an old coffee table into a stylish bench that can be upholstered in your choice of fabric.
Reclaimed pallet coffee table
Use reclaimed pallets or wood to make up a stylish coffee table, stained and painted to match your decor. Fit caster wheels and you have a mobile coffee table.
Recycle a tin into a tool kit
Quite a few smaller tools comes in tins these days, and it seems a waste to throw these away. I turned my empty Bosch Tacker tin into a handy tool kit.
DIY kitty tent
This kitty tent is made using an old (or new) t-shirt, a couple of coat hangers and a few inexpensive supplies. You can make in an hour tops and use colourful or printed t-shirts for a custom kitty tent design.
Colourful storage basket
Have a little fun with Rust-Oleum 2X UltraCover spray paint and turn plain white baskets into colourful storage containers for a child's bedroom.
Self-watering plant containers
In the summer we go through bottles and bottles or orange and guava juice and I decided to save all the plastic bottles to make self-watering plant holders for colourful annuals, succulents, and even cacti
Recycled can plant holder
After collecting a few coffee cans I made up a plant holder for outside the front door. Since the front door is red I painted the cans with Rust-Oleum 2X satin poppy red to match the door.
Recycle glass food jars
You can use glass stain to dress up inexpensive glassware or recycle glass food jars into colourful containers.
Plasic figurine bowl
After making a figurine lamp using a few broken action figures, here's another way to re-purpose old toys in new ways - to make a fun bowl.
Recycle old CD's into a shimmering backsplash
If you still have some old CDs lying around, here's a unique way to use these to create a shimmering bathroom or kitchen backsplash.
Cable spool outdoor furniture
I love the idea of using a plywood or pine cable spool and turning this into furniture for a deck, garden or patio. At a cost of around R350, it's an affordable and fun way to make your own outdoor furniture.
Recycle pool floating into hanging plant container
You know me... I don't like to throw anything away until I have exhausted all my ideas for recycling or re-purposing. This time it's a way to recycle plastic pool chlorine floaters into hanging plant holders.
Using Dremel Micro to engrave glass Mother's Day gift
Coming up with ideas for Mother's Day is a good excuse to take out my Dremel Micro to engrave on glass and turn a recycled glass food jar into a gift filled with home-baked cookies.
A coffee can becomes a feather wind chime using the Dremel Micro
Dremel asked me to come up with a project idea for Mother's Day using the Dremel Micro Multitool. This wind chime has delicate feathers cut from an old aluminium coffee can using the Dremel Micro Multitool and accessories included as part of the complete kit.
Put those old summer t-shirts to good use
This weekend it was time to shop for clothes for the cooler weather. It was also time to sort out my drawers to make space for new clothes, which brought to mind a fun way to re-purpose old t-shirts into rugs for the home.
Re-purposed beanbag becomes comfy pouff
Re-purpose an old and worn beanbag into a practical pouff finishing in the fabric of your choice. From a single beanbag you can easily make 4 to 5 comfortable pouffs for the home.
Recycled glass food jar vases
Recycling is still not a countrywide priority and in my area I prefer to recycle or upcycle as much household waste as possible. For this project I recycled glass food jars into colourful vases with Rust-Oleum 2X spray paint.
Recycled aluminium can roses
Turn aluminium cans into beautiful everlasting roses. This is a fun and creative way to recycle aluminium cans into something different.
Recycled cardboard bird figurines
If you're looking for something different to relieve your stress, what about combining recycling and crafts by making these beautiful birds from cardboard boxes.
Practical fold-up ironing table
This handy ironing table is made using from a fold-up table and perfect when you need to iron in a cramped space. Great for a small craft room, or to have close at hand when doing sewing projects.
Recycled pot organic waste bin
Here's an easy way to keep your kitchen countertops clean by recycling an old saucepan or pot into a organic waste bin.
Revamp an old mirror
Don't throw out an old, scratched mirror when you can touch it up with Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect spray and then add a dash of glam with glass mosaic pebbles.
Oil barrels turned into cabinets
German designers Lockengeloet have taken the idea of recycling oil barrels to a new level, with a range of oil barrels that can be used as a storage cabinet, a mini bar, and even a media centre.
Recycled items for kitchens
Recycling is a trend that is more than a passing fad. Around the world people are looking at ways to re-purpose and re-use household items to create recycled home decor that is beautiful and practical.
What can you do with a tree stump left in the garden
Using a tree feller can cost anywhere from R2000 - and that's just to cut the tree down. That means you are left with a stump, unless you plan on digging up the entire garden to remove the stump and its roots.
Pringles container = gift box
Recycle a pringles container into a decorative gift box that can be embellished for any occasion.
Old garden shed becomes children's playhouse
Having just demolished my old garden shed to make way for a veggie garden, this project that turns an old shed or garden hut into a children's playhouse struck me as a wonderful way to re-purpose a hut or shed rather than throw away.
Reclaimed wood fireplace surround
I'm sure there are many homeowners out there who will appreciate this feature showing ideas on how to clad a fireplace with reclaimed wood. There are more than a few dated and old fashioned fireplaces that could do with covering up, and why not make use of reclaimed wood.
Repurpose old socks and woolens
Here are some fun ideas for re-purposing woolens and socks. I know I always end up with more than a few mismatched socks and kids very quickly grow out of their winter woollies. Rather than throw these away, try your hand at one or two of these fun projects.
Recycled bottles into vintage decor accessories
Glass bottles are one of my favourite and I have a cupboard full of bottles, containers and jars waiting to become projects. This time I dug out some old tequila bottles that have been lying around for 20 odd years!
Baking powder tins into salt and pepper shakers
Having recently relocated all my spices into my new spice rack I needed salt and pepper shakers for the countertop. My kitchen has red accents and the dining room teal, so I recycled baking powder tins into large salt and pepper shakers.
Biscuit tin turned into vintage sewing kit
Turn a plain biscuit tin into a wonderful decor accessory or sewing kit using a few bits from your sewing box. This simple project shows how easily you can transform everyday items that would normally be thrown away into something useful.
Reclaimed wood towel ladder
This ladder towel rack is a quick and very easy project to make and I have added some tips and tricks for finishing the reclaimed wood towel ladder at the bottom.
Reclaimed wood bedside cabinet
There are plenty of ways to use a reclaimed wood pallet for furniture. In this project you can make a couple of bedside cabinets using a wood pallet - or you can pop into your local Builders Warehouse and grab some PAR pine to make one.
Reclaimed wood herb or plant stand
I still have a few pieces of reclaimed wood leftover from some pallets an, I thought it might be nice to make a herb of plant stand using the leftover bits of reclaimed wood and some old drawers that I have been wanting to use.
Home decor that costs you cents!
The other day I was cleaning out old drawers and stumbled upon a jar of one and two cent pieces... remember those! Since this old currency is now useless, I didn't want to throw it away but had no idea what to do with it.
Ideas using reclaimed or salvaged window frames
We have looked at ways to re-purpose a reclaimed door, or how to re-purpose old drawers, so how about even more ideas for repurposing a window frame. Take a Sunday drive out into the country and pop into vintage dealers, pawn shops and secondhand stores and be creative...
Crafty ways to use aluminium cans
There are still many areas around the country that haven't yet implemented recycling procedures for household waste. This project shows how you can use aluminium cans to make trinket boxes, decorative walls tiles and other items that cost nothing and look great.
Recycled aluminium cans create stunning mosaics
Artist Jill Helms creates the most beautiful mosaic pieces using bits and pieces of aluminium cans that she collection. Lots of tiny pieces of aluminum cans are scattered about her studio workspace when creating a new piece of mosaic art.
Colourful hanging curtain made from plastic bottle tops
I have seen some amazing ways to recycle plastic bottle caps, but I do love this idea that uses recycled plastic bottle caps to make a curtain. The colourful plastic bottle caps are arranged to form a wave design that look stunning against the red and yellow background.
Recycled plastic bottle lamp shades
After breaking a glass shade on my kitchen pendant, trying to find a replacement shade proved impossible. Time to take a look through my collection of plastic bottles to see if I can come up with an alternative to recycle plastic bottles into replacement lampshades!
Reclaimed wood wine rack for two!
This wine rack for two is perfect for those that only drink the occasional bottle of wine. It's also a great project to make if you are looking for gift ideas. Made using reclaimed wood, the wine rack accommodates one bottle of wine and two glasses, and takes up very little space.
Reclaimed pallet bird feeder
Winter is almost upon us and I thought this might be a nice time to put some reclaimed wood pallets to good use. Making a bird feeder using reclaimed wood pallets seems like a good idea and I will be able to feed our local wildlife at the same time!
Recycle plastic tub lids into coasters
Having just completed an easy DIY project for making coasters and place mats using jute or rope, I still had some rope left over and decided to use this in another way. Upcycle the lids from plastic tubs or containers into coasters - just another easy way to recycle plastic in a home.
One man's treasure...
With so much emphasis being placed on recycling and repurposing old stuff into practical piece, what some may throw away as junk might be just what you are looking for! Turning one man's junk into treasured pieces for a home is fun and you get to create one-of-a-kind decor.
Repurpose a drawers
If you have an old dresser or chest of drawers that is no longer of any practical value, perhaps it is made out of veneered chipboard or is beyond repair, you will probably find that the drawers can still come in useful.
Ideas for using an old door... or two!
When changing the doors in a home it seems such a waste to throw them away. Secondhand stores, antique shops and salvage yards, as well as online auctions and classifieds are full of wonderful old doors that can be given a new life in so many different ways.
Mosaic frame with recycled CDs
Ha! I knew that old pile of CDs would come in handy one day. Use CDs and glass paint to make colourful mosaic picture frames, or decorate plain boxes with a mosaic pattern. Dig out your old CDs and get crafting this weekend.
Recycled plastic spoon Protea vases
I have had the idea of using spoons to make decorative vases for quite a while but wanted to combine this with my collection of saved glass jars, tins, plastic tubs and bottles.
Make chicken wire storage baskets and containers
A bundle of chicken wire and you can go crazy with storage containers for a home that cost practically nothing. All you need is some wire, or an old lampshade frame and a pair of pliers. You can buy chicken wire by the metre in the garden section of your local Builders Warehouse
Reclaimed plastic bottle petal lamp
I have seen so many gorgeous petal lamps and definitely wanted one for my TV room. Considering that you can pay anywhere from R800 upwards, once again I decided to make my own (!) and look at how to use plastic bottles to make it.
Reclaimed and recycled wood linen drawers
Made using offcuts from pine shelves, reclaimed shipping crates, pine offcuts and a few pieces of PAR pine from your local Builders Warehouse, you can easily knock up this tall chest of drawers or set of linen drawers for a home.
Coffee table using reclaimed or made crates
For this easy crate coffee table you can use reclaimed crates, make your own crates using reclaimed wood, or use PAR pine to make your own crates. You can even add castor wheels onto the base of your crate coffee table to make it mobile.
Plastic milk container MilkWave light
The MilkWaves lampshade is designed as an easy DIY project. It's a lampshade that can be used as a pendant or uplighting floor lamp.
Recycled can cutlery holder
Use recycled cans to make a cutlery holder that can be used for indoor and outdoor entertaining. You can use six cans for cutlery or seven cans if you want to add a serviette holder at one end.
Best recycled can ideas
There are hundreds, if not thousands, of ideas for recycling aluminium or tin cans into creations for a home. While many of the ideas shouldn't be seen on display in any home, there are plenty of creative ideas that are worthy to be put out on display.
Make your own cookie cutters
It can be frustrating when catering for a special event or party and not being able to find nice cookie cutters. During December I made a variety of Christmas cookies - and couldn't find any nice cookie cutters and ended up making my own shapes.
Practical recycled pallet wine rack ideas
With your pallets in hand, before you start crafting your wine rack, put on your thinking cap and design a wine rack that will look good on a wall in your home. There are some weird and tacky wine racks out there that I would be embarrassed to have on display.
Recycled plastic bottle flower holder
Make attractive wire hanging flower holders with empty plastic bottles and some wire. You can fill them with fresh cut flowers and hang them above an outdoor garden table, on a patio or balcony.
Don't forget to recycle
The holiday season is a time of over indulgence and excess. We eat more food, we consume more drinks and we pack our dustbins and trash cans with waste. This season, think before you throw and look for ways to repurpose and recycle plastic waste rather than throwing away.
Egg carton roses
Having previously featured an article on using egg cartons to make roses, I just had to share this project as well. Normal egg cartons are cut to petal shapes, painted and formed into exquisite roses that you can put on display, or use to embellish projects.
Dining table topper for rectangular table
While a lazy susan turntable is perfect for a square or circular dining table, you can add a simple table topper to make add height and space to a rectangular table. This table topper is rustic, but you can add more detail for a traditional table setting.
Box shelves from recycled crates
If you buy your veggies in bulk, chances are you get to take home a wood crate now and then. Here's a wonderful way to put those crates to good use... as box shelves for a wall display.
Serviette rings from cardboard tubes
I know this project has been around and around, but with the holidays so close I thought it might be nice to refresh the idea of using cardboard tubes to make decorative serviette holders for the festive table.
Make your own concrete knobs
When times are tough - the tough get DIYing! Here's a way to put those incandescent light bulbs still sitting in a cupboard to good use, since we have now swapped over the more energy efficient lighting options. Use the bulbs to make concrete knobs.
From rags to riches... or at least beautiful rugs!
Rag rugs have been around for ages, but I haven't previously been very impressed with what I have seen. Lately, however, there are some really adorable designs that are popping up for a nursery or children's bedroom. Here are two charming pink-hued rag rugs.
Decorative cushion cover with t-shirt scraps
Still hoarding last year's t-shirts, despite the fact that they are full of holes? Time to cut them up and make this decorative cushion cover. You can use a single t-shirt, or combine coloured t-shirts for an even more decorative effect.
Repurpose an old tyre into a comfortable seat
I have come across so many great ways to recycle and upcycle and here's another one to add to the list. Using old tyres isn't a new idea and I have seen quite a few recycling projects using tyres, but I do like these quick and easy chairs for the garden.
Get creative with plastic crates
Upcycling plastic crates is the new fad in recycling. They are strong and tough and you can use them in various ways for storage, but I love the new craze for turning plastic crates into upholstered stools.
Reclaimed timber garden swing chair
The ideas for using reclaimed timber just keep on coming. These reclaimed timber garden swing chair is made from timber pallets and is just the place to relax in the shade of some trees on a hot summer day.
Crafts using bottle caps
There are so many amazing craft ideas that make use of bottle caps, both plastic and metal, and it's a fun and affordable way to revamp or dress up an old piece of furniture or craft something new.
Plastic bottles make favour boxes
One of the ladies attending a workshop mentioned how to make party favours using the base of a plastic bottle. Not quite understanding what she meant, I experimented with different ways and lo and behold, you can make fantastic party favour containers with a plastic bottle.
Restore vintage steamer trunk
If you are lucky enough to discover a vintage steamer trunk you have the choice of revamping or restoring the piece. Restoring a steamer trunk involves a bit of woodworking, metal and leather work and is extremely rewarding once you see the finished result.
Upcycle washing machine drum into firepit
Here's how to turn a washing machine drum into a firepit. It's a super-easy project and the design of the stainless steel drum is perfect for a fire.
Mason jar or glass jar outdoor pendant lights
Although you use mason jars to make these gorgeous outdoor pendant lamps, you can also use empty glass jars that you would normally throw away. With summer around the corner, this is a quick and easy way to add style and soft lighting to your patio or deck.
Make new pine like reclaimed timber or old wood
Not everyone is able to find reclaimed timber but wants the look of reclaimed timber furniture. I discovered a way to make ordinary laminated pine shelving look like the reclaimed timber furniture you find in many home decor stores.
Branch out with ideas for windows
This idea is not a new one, but it's definitely a great idea if you are a looking for an affordable way to hang curtains and add interest to country, cottage or rustic room decor.
Not your average DIY lighting designs
The imagination knows no bounds when you take a look at some of these unusual, yet handmade lighting designs. Who would believe that you could make a chandelier out of paperclips, or ballpoint pens!
Our favourite sunburst mirror designs
Over the past couple of years I have seen hundreds of ideas for sunburst mirrors and they continue to pop up. When you look at how much it costs to buy a sunburst mirror, looking a inexpensive ways to make your own is the way to go.
Make a garden swing bed
Summer is almost here, and what better way to spend time outdoors than relaxing in a swing bed. This swing bed is made from reclaimed timber pallets, but you can make out of any reclaimed timber - or even make one from scratch using PAR pine.
Turn an old tyre into a rope covered ottoman
This rope tyre ottoman project has been round the block a few times but the end results are definitely improving. This rope tyre ottoman, or even the rope tyre table, would definitely look good in a lounge.
A fresh welcome for spring
Add a fresh welcome to your home and brighten up for spring with this aromatic lemon wreath made from recycled toilet roll tubes.
Wind chime from recycled tins
Here's a great way to make a unique wind chime using recycled cans and spoons and painting in your favourite colour. Hang them on the patio or in your garden.
One-of-a-kind coffee tables for reclaimed timber
These coffee tables can be considered as one-of-a-kind, as no two pieces of timber look exactly the same. All the coffee table designs below are made using salvaged or reclaimed timber.
Beautiful home accents from junk
Sometimes the most innocuous piece of junk can be transformed into a beautiful decor piece for a home. Anything from old shutters and doors, to parquet flooring blocks, gets used in practical ways to create unique home decor and accent pieces.
Cardboard furniture is here to stay
Cardboard furniture has been around for many years, but has recently gained a lot of popularity due to the focus the world is putting on sustainable living.
Use leftover tiles to make a chalkboard
I like the idea of using leftover tiles from a project to make these easy chalkboards. The kids can use them for drawing, you can mount onto the wall as mini notice boards or as decor accessories. Grab a can of Rust-Oleum Chalkboard spray paint and let's get started...
Repurpose cardboard boxes
Decorate cardboard boxes with fabric, wrapping paper or faux leather to create an attractive display that's also useful for storage. I like to collect shoe boxes and packing boxes and then re-use them, and covering them up means you can put them on display.
Reclaimed timber kitchen island
There are plenty of projects where you can use reclaimed timber in useful ways, and there are many sources of reclaimed timber. In this project you can make a kitchen island or convenient table for the kitchen.
Reclaimed timber for contemporary design
Reclaimed timber can be repurposed into fencing and furniture, and timber pallets provide the perfect opportunity for even those unskilled at DIY to give it a try. But Sascha Akkermann takes it one step further... creating contemporary furniture using timber pallets.
What can you make with nespresso foil cups?
I'm sure you've all seen - and drooled over - the Nespresso ads on TV featuring George Clooney, and recycling nespresso foil containers is the latest craze to appear for recycling crafts. Those little containers can be used in so many wonderful ways. Here are just a few...
From whisks into pendant lights
We recently featured an article that showed how to use a kitchen colander as a pendant light, but this design definitely takes the cake...! Seks design recently featured whisk-y lights as part of a London display - and these pendant lights are made using whisks.
Recycle CD's into closet clothes dividers
This is such an simple project that makes it easier to find clothes and is a great idea since we don't have these closet dividers available locally.
Things to make with old sweaters and jumpers
So, you were digging out all your old sweaters and jerseys and discovered that fishmoths had feasted on them, leaving them looking like fishnet rather than cable knit. Don't throw them out just yet...
New and unique ways to recycle tins and cans
There are hundreds of ideas for using aluminium or tin cans, but I wanted to put together a collection of recycling projects that are unique, yet still practical and can easily be done. After scouring literally hundreds of sites, I came across these wonderful ideas...
Repurpose cigarette boxes
So you haven't yet kicked the habit. Well, you might as well make use of empty cigarette boxes. This project shows how to repurpose cigarette boxes into nifty parking slots for toy cars.
Reclaimed pallets for bedside table
Here's the first entry for this year's Bosch Home Improvement Competition submitted by Joanne Thompson. This is another project that uses reclaimed timber pallets, this time to make two bedside tables.
Recycled cardboard tubes for serviette rings
These serviette rings are perfect for your dining table, or if you have a special event coming up. They are made from cardboard tubes wrapped in fabric.
Amazing candle holder with recycled tins
I found this project on a Hungarian website and immediately loved the look of this unique way of hanging tea candles - and recycling small cat food cans as well.
Dress up glass jars and containers
Empty container jars looking wonderful as storage containers when dressed up with decorative lids. Glue fancy buttons onto jar lids and then spray with Rust-Oleum Universal metallics spray paints.
WINNER: Craft Challenge
Samantha Klein recycled wooden pallets into a practical and much needed outdoor patio area for her home. We think that Samantha deserves the prize of a Dremel Tool Hamper, which I am sure will be put to good use.
Create a miniature terrarium
I think these light bulb terrariums are really cute. They don't take up a lot of room and don't require a lot of care... perfect for me! It's also a great way to recycle incandescent light bulbs. Here's how to make your own light bulb terrarium.
Aluminium can tab bracelet
Popping up everywhere, aluminium can tab bracelets sell at prices ranging from R50 upwards to R200 depending on the design. Aluminium can tab bracelets are easy to make and it's a great idea for starting a home-based business if you are looking to bring in a bit of extra cash.
20 uses for Mason jars
Who knew that Mason jars could be so useful. We know they are perfect for canning fruits, but here are some great ideas for repurposing Mason jars in other ways.
Paper cup Christmas star
These water-cooler paper cups are great for making a Christmas star and you can leave them white, as below, or spray them with Rust-Oleum Universal metallic spray in pure gold or titanium silver.
Old headboards become a daybed
What to do with a pair of headboards picked up at a bargain price? These solid Imbuia headboards are to valuable to ignore and it's amazing to see what can actually be done with a pair of old headboards.
DIY small table for garden or patio
I love this small whitewashed table. It would be nice for in the garden or on the deck for relaxing on cushions or a blanket.
Make beautiful flowers with an egg carton
Recycling egg cartons is a fun project that mom or kids can do. If the kids are bored during the school holidays, stock pile some egg cartons to keep them busy.
Recycle polystyrene trays and egg cartons
Make these flowers out of polystyrene trays or egg cartons and then use them to decorate gifts, or add to a decorative border around a frame.
Re-purpose an old cot or crib
No need to pack away or toss out that old cot or crib, the Internet is full of ways to transform an old cot or crib into practical furniture. We have stumbled upon a cot or crib that becomes a desk, a cot that is transformed into a day bed, and a crib that easily converts into a bench.
Uses for old or reclaimed window frames
Here are some DIY projects that use reclaimed window frames. My favourite is how to make a beautiful wall hanging with colourful watering cans filled with Portulaca in jewel colours. Hang it on the wall or fence, or close to your patio, for a brilliant splash of fun colour.
Toilet roll holders make great gift boxes
Start collecting... Repurpose toilet roll holders and cardboard tubes into gift containers for Christmas presents, birthdays or special occasions. Embellished with trim, ribbons and bows, cardboard toilet roll holders cost nothing and look gorgeous once finished.
How to make continuous t-shirt yarn
An easy way to cut a continuous length of t-shirt yarn and then join together long lengths of t-shirt yarn in an almost invisible way.
Salvage repurposed
Whether you get your salvaged goods from a salvage yard, or out of someone else's skip -- yes, I have done that! -- you will find amazing ways to repurpose salvaged building materials on the Internet.
Reuse or repurpose plastic milk bottles
There are so many creative ideas on the Internet on how to repurpose or reuse plastic milk bottles. While some go beyond ridiculous, there are a few that I would definitely make use of in my own home.
Reuse or repurpose old with a new coat of paint
Sometimes all you need is a can of paint and you can transform dated or mismatched decor accessories easily and quickly.
Candy stand from repurposed plastic bottles
I have a pile of cut plastic bottles that I regularly play with to think up ideas to use them, and this one just popped into my head. I think it would be perfect for a party table or special occasion, and could be used to display sweets or snacks.
Reclaimed timber flower boxes
There are so many ways to use reclaimed timber, whether from old fencing, pallets or scrap that is lying around. Old timber has an aged look and texture that is perfect for making a flower box or flower container.
Amazing ways to reuse, repurpose and recycle
Here are just a few ideas that I have stumbled upon on the Internet. So many ways to reuse, repurpose and recycle everyday household waste in crafty and unique ways. Makes you want to stop and think before you throw something away!
Use plastic spoons for decorative mirror frame
Here's another wonderful idea for repurposing plastic spoons... into a funky mirror frame. You can have mirror circles cut to any size and then glue cut plastic spoons around the mirror. For this project don't buy plastic spoons, rather reuse spoons after an event or celebration.
Preserve jars as unique pendant lamps
I truly believe it s possible to get custom lighting without breaking the bank. The key is designing your own shade using canning or preserve jars.
Repurpose plastic spoons into decorative clock
I am still always on the lookout for ways to repurpose or reuse plastic and this chrysanthemum clock is such a funky way to put plastic spoons to use as a decorative clock. The clock itself is a cheapie that you can buy at almost any home decor store.
Timber pallets become practical garden furniture
One crafty reader transforms timber pallets into attractive patio furniture. Samantha Klein was lucky enough to stumble upon plenty of timber pallets for her repurposed patio furniture.
The art of recycling
Eric Barclay likes to create fun, whimsical illustrations and designs. His style is heavily influenced by the graphic design and modern-style cartoons from the 1950s through the late 1960s.
Pallet garden chair
Just to show you how easy it is to make basic garden furniture using a timber pallet, here is how Paola made her chairs for entry into our Craft Challenge.
A mini greenhouse using cd cases
You know I love projects that repurpose household waste in new ways, and I was blown away by Mega Crafty's unique way of using CD cases to make a mini greenhouse. I think it's awesome that we are being inspired to recycle and repurpose in such amazing ways!
Make jute, sisal, twine or cotton rope mats and rugs
Instead of buying rugs or mats, here's a way to make your own rugs or mats using natural, affordable materials that you will find at your local Builders Warehouse. These gorgeous mats are made of jute, twine, sisal or cotton and are easy to make.
More ideas for recycling plastic bottles
When I came up with the idea of using plastic cold drink bottles for tea, coffee and sugar canisters, so many other ideas popped into my head that I just had to give them all a try. This one repurposes plastic bottles into piggy or cow saving banks.
Plastic bottles for tea, coffee & sugar canisters
Don't know if I am the first the come up with this idea, but I thought of another great way to recycle and repurpose plastic bottles... into tea, coffee and sugar containers. If you cut them just right, they are also airtight as well.
Repurpose an old cabinet
Here is a perfect example of how you can so easily repurpose ugly furniture into a beautiful piece at very little cost. A roll of wood grain self-adhesive vinyl is cut out to a flower design and applied to the painted unit.
Repurpose louvre doors or pine shutters
Louvre pine doors and old shutters can be repurposed into a variety of decor accessories, but my favourite by far is to repurpose louvre pine doors or shutters into a feature headboard.
Handmade rag rugs
For these rag rugs, the design focus blends modern lines and colour with a child safe, eco-conscious, family friendly sensibility.
Chandelier made of plastic bottles
Michelle Brand repurposes plastic in ways you would never believe, but this is my favourite by far. Making this chandelier from plastic bottles is extremely easy and the end result is stunning.
Floor lamp made from plastic bottles
Every time I hold a piece of plastic household waste in my hands, I first check the plastics code on the base and then try to think up ways to use it, or repurpose it into something else.
A plastic shopping bag from plastic shopping bags
Just finished my new plastic shopping bag made from old plastic shopping bags! I recently posted a project using my DIY super-large crochet hook and the whole idea behind designing the hook was to be able to make a shopping bag with plastic bags.
Make safety glasses from plastic bottles
I came across this idea on Make. It's another great way to repurpose and recycle plastic bottles into a safety shield or safety glasses for when using an angle grinder or cutting metal and tile, etc.
Recycle and repurpose wine crates
We have done quite a few projects using recycled pallets and it got me to thinking about... Hey, we're South African, so what about recycling wine crates! After all, we are a wine-loving country that produces the best wines in the world.
More ways to use wine corks
As a wine loving nation, the main South African pastime is, of course, drinking wine, but with a little effort and creativity, you can get a lot of enjoyment from reusing the wine corks and transforming them into useful items for around your home.
Reclaimed timber coat rack
With all the projects floating around that use reclaimed timber pallets, I'm thinking that these are going to be very hard to come by. So, instead of using timber pallets you can also use any reclaimed wood that you can get your hands on.
Timber pallet garden day bed
Who doesn't enjoy finding a shady spot in the garden to read a good book. This garden day bed is made up entirely from reclaimed timber pallets, joined together and topped off with a covered foam cushion
Furniture ideas using reclaimed timber
You know I love to reuse, recycle and repurpose because I mention it so often. In our modern times when everything is plastic, being able to discover beautiful wood and timber pieces is a joy.
Unique way to use plastic spoons
We are getting more and more inventive with ideas for repurposing plastic waste. Found on the Internet, this is a fun way to use plastic spoons to create a pendant light.
Autumn home decor picture frame
As the trees start to shed their leaves you can pick up or break off a few small branches from trees in the garden to create a live picture for hanging on the wall.
Fun home recycling projects
There are so many ways to reuse, recycle and repurpose and have fun at the same time. I have selected a couple of great recycling projects that use a variety of household items that normally get thrown out.
Yoghurt container becomes vintage flower pot
Before throwing anything away these days, I try to think of ways items can be upcycled, reused and repurposed. This time it's a yoghurt container that is upcycled into a vintage flower pot.
Upcycle bamboo blind into modern lamp shade
Don't throw out your old bamboo blinds - take them apart and use them to makeover a dated lamp or pendant shade for a contemporary look. Isabella and Max Rooms shows you how easy it is to do this project easily and quickly.
Use twigs and branches for furniture and decor
Having previously cut some large branches off a Silver Birch, I am always looking for ways to use these in and around the home. It seems such a pity to let the wood go to waste when it could be used for something else.
Recycle plastic tubs and containers
What a great way to recycle ice cream containers or plastic tubs - cover them with old patterns and add bright bows for storing all your patterns.
Decor in a can
As you know, I'm always looking for great ways to recycle, and this project puts tin cans to use as attractive plant holders for a kitchen windowsill or side table.
How to make plastic roses
I have seen roses made from plastic spoons on the Internet and often wondered how easy they would be to make. Well, I can tell you now that they are super easy and look absolutely gorgeous. The picture doesn't do the finished flower justice!
Keepsake or trinket box from tin can
I have been promising myself to try some metal working for ages, but just never seemed to find the time to get round to it. The opportunity finally presented itself today when wondering what I could make with an empty coffee can.
So many ways to use fabric scraps
If you have odds and scraps of fabric at home, we've come across so many unique and wonderful ways to use fabric scraps.
Transform junk into furniture
I recently stumbled upon Funky Junk Interiors during one of my many forays on the Internet. Anyone interested in serious recycling will be amazed at some of the great projects they have on their website.
Makeover an old coffee table
I love making over an old piece. It gives it new life, new potential and in doing so, can totally change the look of a space.
Architectural elements as art
Add a one-of-a-kind decoration to your bedroom: Hang an interesting, salvaged object on the wall as art in just a few simple steps. Search architectural salvage, flea markets and thrift stores for an interesting item.
Uses for buttons
Many of us have piles of buttons that have been collected over the years. Here are some projects that I have come across that use buttons in unique and wonderful ways.
Jewellery hanger
Recycle wooden coat hangers into practical jewellery hangers - and never have to untangle again!
Recycled tin cans for potted plant display
Recycle old paint or coffee tins into attractive plant holders that can be hung in the garden to decorate a plain wall.
Colourful containers
Grow your own wheatgrass in colourful recycled cans on the kitchen counter or other sunny spot. Wheatgrass likes plenty of light, but not direct sunlight.
Recycle old LP's
I saw this idea on the Internet some time ago and thought that it was a great way to recycle all my old LP's stacked in huge piles at the bottom of a cupboard. OK, so LP's might not be what they are called these days... so let's recycle old vinyl's!
Pallet shoe rack
Love this project ! How easy to make a quick and easy storage rack for next to the kitchen door for muddy shoes, or painted in bright colours for a bedroom.
Cardboard chandelier
Here's a way to use cardboard boxes to make chandeliers for your home - affordable too!
Simple recycling projects
Take time out to try some of these simple recycling projects with items you'll find in and around the home.
Recycle newspaper
You can make these adorable flowers with newspaper and buttons.
Recycled wine holder
Use tins cans of different sizes to create a nifty recycle wine rack for a bar counter or kitchen counter top.
Revamp an old door into a message centre
After hesitating over painting the wood, I bit the bullet. The wood grain was so beautiful but somehow it wasn't t old enough to be cool. So, black it is!
Recycled tin can lamp shades
I came across these wonderful light shades made by recycling aluminium tin cans and thought that this was a great idea for a DIY craft project. Out came my Dremel MultiTool to see how easy it would be.
Crafty projects
Transform everyday home items to serve as unique and fun lighting.
Tin can luminaries
These punched-tin lanterns add a folk-art touch to the garden and are fun and easy to create.
Wine cork trivet
Recycle your wine corks into a trivet for your dining room table - for all your hot dishes.
Delicate plant holders
To help preserve the environment, we can equip our homes with energy-saving light bulbs. Here is an opportunity to recycle old light bulbs into trendy hanging vases.
Recycled fairy lights
These recycled cardboard cups offer an unusual texture and soft colours that, with minimal skills, can be turned into a vine of light-emitting morning glory. For this project, use LED lights only.
Can lights
I always enjoy my cup of joe in the morning, but when it comes to recycling the coffee cans, I had to figure out something new to do with them. They have such a great look and are built so well, I was determined to find them another purpose.
Repurpose a stepladder
There are many unique ways to repurpose old ladders. If you have an old ladder at the bottom of the garden, tacking up space in a garage, or tucked out of sight at the back of hut, here are some ways to turn this part-time helper into a full-time organizer.
Recycled candle holders
I have a real affinity for trash-to-treasure projects, especially recycling projects. This project shows how to make decorative votive containers from plastic bottles and aluminium cans.
Recycle a shoe box
Dress up a cardboard box to hide all your cellphone charger cables
Recycled flower caddy
Instead of throwing out empty cans - use them to create our flower caddy
Recycled crafts
From time to time, whilst endlessly browsing the Internet, I come across some truly genuine ideas for recycling items in the home. These are just some of the projects that I have stumbled across, and I will be adding many more.