How To Use Recycled Things To Make Easy Crafts

Use Recycled Things And Enjoy Free Crafts At Home

If there’s one thing every family home has in abundance, it’s “stuff”! From empty jars to cereal boxes, old magazines, and even the odd sock without a partner. But what if these everyday odds and ends could be transformed from clutter into colourful works of art? At Rainbow Family Craft, we believe that some of the best craft supplies are hiding in your recycling bin. They are just waiting to be given a new lease of life. You can use recycled things to make some easy crafts for kids this summer.

Recycled crafts aren’t just budget-friendly. They’re a brilliant way to teach children about sustainability. They encourage creative thinking and make memories together as a family. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day activity, a way to reduce waste, or simply some inspiration to spark your child’s imagination, here are our favourite quick ideas for using recycled materials to create something truly special.

1. Tin Can Pencil Pots: A Desk with Personality

Every family seems to accumulate empty tin cans—beans, soup, sweetcorn, you name it. Instead of tossing them out, why not turn them into cheerful pencil pots? Begin by washing out the can thoroughly and checking for sharp edges (a quick file or a layer of tape over the rim keeps little fingers safe). Then, let the decorating begin! Paint is always a winner, but you can also use strips of colourful paper, washi tape, or even leftover fabric scraps. Add googly eyes and a pom-pom nose for a friendly desk companion. These pots are practical, perfect for homework supplies, and make lovely handmade gifts for teachers or grandparents.

2. Cereal Box Organisers: Tidy Up in Style

Cereal boxes are the unsung heroes of the recycling world. With a pair of scissors and some imagination, they can become magazine holders, desk organisers, or even mail sorters. Cut your box at an angle to create an open-topped holder, then let your child loose with wrapping paper, old comics, or their own artwork to cover the outside. For an extra personal touch, use stickers or stencils to add names or labels. These organisers are a brilliant way to keep bedrooms, kitchens, or craft spaces tidy—and they’re a gentle introduction to upcycling for little ones.

3. Bottle Cap Magnets: Mini Masterpieces for the Fridge

If your family gets through bottles of milk or juice, you’ll know how quickly bottle caps pile up. Save a handful and turn them into tiny works of art. Simply glue a small magnet to the back of each cap (available cheaply online or at craft shops) and let your child decorate the front with paint, stickers, or even tiny photos. These magnets are perfect for displaying your child’s artwork or school achievements on the fridge—and they make fab little gifts for friends.

4. Cardboard Tube Creatures: Endless Imagination When You Use Recycled Things

Toilet roll tubes and kitchen towel rolls are the foundation for a world of creativity. Encourage your child to transform them into animals, rockets, or even rainbow unicorns using paint, coloured paper, and whatever scraps you have to hand. Add pipe cleaners for tails or antennae, or use cotton wool for fluffy sheep. This is a fantastic activity for all ages, as the only limit is your imagination—and it’s a great way to use up those ever-present cardboard tubes.

5. Egg Carton Flowers: Blooms That Last

Egg cartons are surprisingly versatile. Cut out the individual cups, trim them into petal shapes, and let your child paint them in bright, cheerful colours. Glue a button or bead in the centre for the flower’s heart, then attach to a stick or straw to create a bouquet. These flowers look lovely in a jam jar vase and make a sweet, handmade gift for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or any occasion.

6. Jar Lanterns: Magical Evenings, Made Simple

Don’t throw away that empty jam jar! Clean it out, cover the outside with torn tissue paper and watered-down PVA glue, and pop in a battery-powered tealight. You can add a string to hang your lanterns in the garden, or simply line them up on a windowsill for a magical glow. This craft is especially lovely for summer evenings, but also brings a bit of brightness to dark winter nights.

7. Scrap Fabric Bunting: Use Recycled Things To Celebrate Every Day

If you’ve got old clothes, pillowcases, or even tea towels that are past their best, don’t bin them—turn them into bunting! Cut triangles from your fabric (a cardboard template helps keep them even), then sew or glue them onto a length of ribbon or string. Hang your bunting in bedrooms, playrooms, or across the garden for instant party vibes. It’s a wonderful way to give new life to textiles and adds a unique, handmade touch to your home.