If you like using what you have on hand to make craft projects, then you’ll love this roundup of Mod Podge recycled crafts. These are great budget ideas that are family friendly!
Earth Day is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by diving into some amazing recycled crafts?
It’s a time to get creative, think green, and transform what some might call trash into beautiful, functional pieces.
Here at Mod Podge Rocks, we’re all about embracing the ‘crafts with trash’ concept – and it seems you love it as much as we do!
One of my absolute favorite recycled crafts is a DIY desk organizer, crafted ingeniously from cereal boxes and paper towel rolls. It’s not just a craft; it’s a testament to the potential of everyday items (#1 in the list below).
Since that project, my passion for turning ‘garbage’ into gorgeous has only grown. It’s not just crafting; it’s a creative obsession with a green twist.
Recycled crafts aren’t just about being eco-friendly; they’re also incredibly budget-friendly.
It’s amazing how a little imagination, coupled with some Mod Podge magic, can turn what you have at home into something spectacular – sometimes at no cost at all. It’s crafting that’s kind to both the planet and your wallet.
As we celebrate Earth Day, let’s challenge ourselves to look at our trash and recycling bins not as the end of the line, but as a treasure trove of crafting potential. What hidden gems can you find?
An old magazine, a tin can, or perhaps some paper scraps waiting for their moment to shine? The possibilities are endless, and with a dash of creativity, anything can be transformed.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into our craft stashes. With Mod Podge in hand, we’re ready to embark on a crafting adventure that’s both fulfilling and environmentally conscious.
From upcycled home decor to inventive playthings for the kids, these 35+ recycled crafts are more than just projects; they’re a celebration of creativity and sustainability.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, these recycled crafts are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of handmade charm to their life.
They’re proof that with a bit of creativity, even the most ordinary items can become extraordinary.
So, let’s get decoupaging and turn those everyday items into something truly special. Here are 40 great ideas to get you started on your recycled crafting journey.
DIY Desk Organizer
Use old cereal boxes and toilet paper rolls to create a unique DIY desk organizer! This craft organizer is perfect if you're on a budget.
Get the Tutorial
Magazine Collage
Learn how to make a collage with Mod Podge! This magazine collage is easy enough for anyone to make, and it can be personalized.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Cell Phone Holder
Learn how to make a cell phone holder out of a lotion bottle, and decorate with Mod Podge and fabric.
Get the Tutorial
Decorating Glass Pickle Jars
Recycled crafts are so fun and I love the cost (free)! You’ll be decorating glass jars with fabric scraps and embellishments – very easy.
Get the Tutorial
Styrofoam Tray
Learn how to use decoupage medium to attach fabric to a foam tray!
Get the Tutorial
Paper Beads
Learn how to make paper bead jewelry the easy way, with simple craft supplies.
Get the Tutorial
Junk Mail Art Using Recycled Mailers
Use junk mail to create unique recycled art for your wall. All you need is a few basic supplies and Mod Podge; and some creativity!
Get the Tutorial
DIY Pencil Holder
Learn how to make a pencil holder with a glass jar and Mod Podge – it's the easiest craft ever!
Get the Tutorial
Bottle Cap Magnets
Learn how to make DIY magnets with bottle caps! You probably have the supplies in your home already. Easy for both kids and adults.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Night Light
Make this DIY night light craft using a mason jar! This is a fun project for kids or adults.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Party Favors
Learn to make inexpensive party favors using recycled materials and Mod Podge! You can customize these for any celebration.
Get the Tutorial
Pill Bottle Craft
Recycle pill bottles using Mod Podge and scrapbook paper! This is the perfect way to get inexpensive and cute storage for smaller items.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Book Safe
Learn how to make a book safe the easiest way possible, with Mod Podge.
Get the Tutorial
Easy Suncatchers
Learn how to make the easiest, most inexpensive kids craft with recycled lids! These sun catchers will be a favorite spring or summer project.
Get the Tutorial
Black Mason Jars
Learn how to make lace mason jars with a stunning black and white theme! Perfect for party or wedding.
Get the Tutorial
Recycle Cookie Tins
Are you wondering what to do with old cookie tins? Learn how to repurpose them using Mod Podge and fabric! It's easy to decoupage on a tin surface.
Get the Tutorial
Cereal Box Notepads
Don’t throw your cereal boxes away! Turn them into covers for brand new notepads. This is such a cool idea, and you can make them in various sizes.
Get the Tutorial
Altoid Tin Crafts
What should you do with an old Altoids tin? Turn it into storage! Learn how to do it with Mod Podge using this tutorial.
Get the Tutorial
Mid Century Clock Magnets
With some old bottle caps, you too can make these mid century clock magnets. Jessica provides the graphics.
Get the Tutorial
Phone Book to Pen Organizer
I never know what to do with those old phone books – this pencil holder idea is brilliant!
Get the Tutorial
Tissue Paper Mason Jar Centerpieces
Make mason jar centerpieces out of recycled jars – using tissue paper and Mod Podge! Grab items from your stash to make this project free.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Onesies
Learn how to make personalized onesies using fabric, Mod Podge, and recycled clothing. This is a perfect no sew project.
Get the Tutorial
Mod Podge Candle Holder
These easy DIY votive candle holders are made from old glasses and use Mod Podge – you won’t spend a lot of money for this pretty, vintage inspired home decor.
Get the Tutorial
Recycled CD Coasters
Turn those old CDs into gorgeous coasters for your porch, dining room, or anywhere else they will be useful!
Get the Tutorial
Mod Podge Paper Mache Bowls
Learn how to make Mod Podge paper mache bowls the easy way, with old newspaper! You can paint them any colors you like to match your decor. So simple!
Get the Tutorial
DIY Keychain from a Soda Can
This DIY keychain is so unique – it's made from a soda can! You can make your own version using your favorite soda and Dimensional Magic.
Get the Tutorial
Bandana Purse
I can’t believe this cute little summer purse was created from a cereal box, bandana, and Mod Podge.
Get the Tutorial
Fabric Covered Boxes
Learn how to make fabric covered boxes using fabric and recycled materials! This is an easy and budget friendly craft idea.
Get the Tutorial
Mod Podge a Cardboard Box
Learn how to Mod Podge cardboard using a napkin and this simple tutorial. This is such an easy and inexpensive craft idea.
Get the Tutorial
Mod Podge Magazine Art
Use old magazines and a circle cutter to make this interesting wall art. You can make this bold with lots of colors if you choose.
Get the Tutorial
Recycle Glass Bottles Into Vases (So Easy!)
Recycle glass bottles and turn them into vases – all you need is a little bit of spray paint and Mod Podge. This craft is so easy!
Get the Tutorial
Make Spoon Garden Markers on a Budget
Use old thrift store spoons, Mod Podge, and your favorite scrapbook papers to make DIY garden markers your neighbors will be jealous of.
Get the Tutorial
DIY Dollhouse
Learn how to make a dollhouse out of cardboard! It's really easy, inexpensive, and you can decorate it with Mod Podge.
Get the Tutorial
What are your favorite crafts made with recycling? Let me know in the comments! You can also check out some additional ideas by watching the video in this post.
Hi Amy! Thank you so much for including my coasters! This is a fabulous round up, I’ve pinned it!
Amy, I am SO glad I came across your website! I’m a cardmaker/paper crafter and I’ve been feeling limited in my project repertoire — but the possibilities seem endless now that I know about Mod Podge! I’m excited to combine my stamping, punches and paper with Mod Podge to create wonderful, handmade things. Thank you!!!
Thanks lovie for featuring me in your round up. Woo to the hoo!
Love the roundup! There are some really great ideas I’d never thought of before (like CD coasters!)
Hi Amy, Love your site! Amazing Ideas – They’re all simply superb. I’m a crafter too and love to experiment with stuff especially jars, bottles, tins etc. Do check out my blog at http://kraftykrook.blogspot.com/. Thank you and Once again, Love your work 🙂
This post is so full of great ideas!! I hope I get to make some of this stuff soon. I found you through Madigan Made, and I’m super glad I did!