Did you know that most “junk” is still useful and can be recycled? Few people take the time to notice the countless items around them that hold so much potential. However, I am a recycling junkie, possessing firsthand knowledge of this hidden potential, even in the most unlikely of objects. Saving money is nothing new. Heck, who wouldn’t like to have a little more in her pockets? What’s sad is some people are leery about reusing old items, be it in the home or in the garden, afraid others will think they’re cheap. On the contrary, frugal individuals like me are not cheap–we’re simply being artistic (and happily saving money in the process).

Here are just some of the numerous ideas you can try to help you get started in the art of recycling…and remember, even if you share the same idea for something, it can still be unique if you add a personal touch.

  • Consider displaying a number of your prized possessions on a makeshift shelf made from a rustic piece of board from a torn-down barn or other structure. Alternatively, you could spruce up an old ladder, adding quilts, family photos, etc. This is also a good way to preserve a small piece of history, perhaps even your own.

recycled ladder

  • Reuse boxes as makeshift furniture. Large boxes or plastic crates become instant dressers or shelves. Just stack them up (opening facing out). This is a great temporary fix for anyone on a budget (I did this following my divorce). You can also recycle old drawers to store treasures. Toilet paper tubes make interesting holders for writing supplies. Apply self-stick fabric to cereal boxes and store magazines or files in them.
  • Don’t overlook little items. Small touches can add big appeal. CDs can be reused as reflectors, coasters, or other objects–like clocks. A stunning pair of earrings can be used to accent hand towels or curtains. Crystal necklaces or similar items can be used to dress up chandeliers. Hardware items, such as hooks or brackets, make great hangers for pots and pans, which can also become interesting pieces of art. Years ago, my brother asked me to help spruce up his landscape. While clearing the backyard of piled-up trash, I found a cast-iron skillet, old and filled with flaky rust. Anyone else would have tossed it, again. Not me. I took it home, cleaned it up, and painted a rooster on the outside of it. Then I hung it up on the kitchen wall where it’s right at home with my rooster collection.

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  • Create artwork by reusing old signs, magazine covers, board games, puzzles, or outdated books and calendars. Place your treasure in a frame and hang it on the wall or place it on a shelf. Use an old windowpane for framing photos, or cover an end table with a piece of glass and add your favorite photographs or artwork beneath it for everyone to enjoy. Laminate all that piled-up artwork (from your children) and decorate a bookcase or even a wall with them. You can turn your child’s favorite toy figurines into ornaments too.
  • Use old clothes for creative projects. For example, when used as fabric, old pieces of clothing can make wonderful placemats, quilts, pillows, etc. Pockets are good for storing small items. Take them from a worn out pair of jeans and sew them on an old quilt, and then hang it up. Fill the pockets with sewing notions, craft tools, or even office supplies. You could also use pieces taken from favorite items to create a special memory quilt. Take those old boots and shoes and place them in the garden as plant holders.

stepladder

  • Turn a chipped bowl into a planter or centerpiece filled with potpourri. Use an old planter as a decorative storage container, filling it with washcloths in the bathroom. Plastic milk jugs or soda bottles can be turned into plant containers or piggy banks for the kids. Old coffee and soup cans can also make interesting containers for plants or candles. Transform a watering can into a garden fountain. Reuse baby wipe containers (the cylinder ones) as yarn dispensers to help prevent tangling. The list goes on and on.

Dare to be different. With a little creativity, you can turn nearly anything into something useful.

This post was written by Nikki P., homeschool mom and Lesson Pathways contributor.