13 trash-to-craft ideas

(Photo: Dee Hampton)

Reusing commonly tossed items is not only a great way to save on cash, its also one easiest ways to be green.

According to the EPA, reuse can help reduce waste disposal and handling costs, because it avoids the costs of recycling, municipal composting, land filling, and combustion.

Whether you’re trying to save or be more eco-friendly, giving your items a second-life is one way to help reduce pollution, including greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.

Here are 13 creative ideas:

1. Tissue box and baby wipe containers can be used to store your plastic bags. Fold them neatly so they pop out like tissue normally would when you remove them.

2. Yogurt and cream cheese containers are excellent for making sandcastles in the summer time. Make them hip by decorating the outside with items from your local art supply store.

3. Turn old photos ready-to-be-tossed-out into postcards.

4. Old leather belts are great for making a collar for a pet. Be sure to size and measure for your pet and adjust length by cutting.

5. Glass jars can be used to organize repair supplies -- screws, nails, picture hangers.

6. Aluminum cans can turn your backyard into put-put central for kiddies. Strip the cans of paper and drill holes in the sides and bottom. Dig holes to fit cans and instantly you have your own mini-golf course.

7. Old Popsicle sticks can be used to label garden plants.

8. Crayon nubs can be melted together to make a cool multi-colored crayon.

9. Use carpet remnants as doormats.

10. Paper egg carton trays make great jewelry organizers for small earrings, necklaces, or rings. Give them personality by painting the tray in your favorite hue. Or these egg cartons can also be used as mini pots to start seedlings.

11. Use old candle nubs as fire starters.

12. Small deli containers are great for on the go when you’re walking a dog and need a small bowl for water or food.

13. Save old buttons and pop tops to make jewelry or toy bots for the kids.

--Kim Carlson
Founder, Earth Smart Consumer

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc