18 Fun Upcycled Crafts for Kids That’ll Keep Them Busy for Hours (You’ll Love #5!)

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, inspire children to create sustainable art with these fun upcycled crafts.

Crafting with kids is always an adventure, especially when it involves getting creative with materials that might otherwise end up in the trash.

Upcycling not only provides a great opportunity for children to express their artistic flair, but it also teaches them about sustainability and the importance of reusing materials. Imagine the joy on their faces as they transform old boxes into imaginative playthings or leftover fabric into unique art pieces. These fun upcycled crafts are perfect for keeping your little ones engaged for hours while making something special together. From quirky planters to colorful jewelry, there’s something for everyone on this list!

Gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some delightful crafting moments that will not only entertain but also inspire creativity and resourcefulness in your young artists.

1. Plastic Bottle Bird Feeders

Transforming empty plastic bottles into bird feeders is a fantastic way to engage kids with nature while helping local wildlife. All you need is a clean, empty bottle, some wooden spoons or skewers, and birdseed.

Start by making holes near the bottom of the bottle to insert the spoons, angled slightly down so birds can easily access the food. Fill the bottle with birdseed, then hang it from a tree branch using some twine. For this, you can use jute twine, which is biodegradable and perfect for outdoor use. Kids will love watching the birds flock to their handmade feeder, and you might even create a family birdwatching journal to track the different species that visit!

To personalize the bottle and make it even more appealing, consider using a non-toxic acrylic paint set to add bright colors and fun designs. This paint is safe for children and will help make their creations truly unique.

Discussing the different types of birds that come to visit can spark a love for nature in children and teach them about biodiversity. If you want to take it a step further, you can check out a bird feeder kit that’s ready for painting, giving kids even more opportunities for creativity and learning!

Product Recommendations:
• jute twine
• non-toxic acrylic paint set
• bird feeder kit

2. Egg Carton Caterpillars

Egg cartons can be turned into adorable caterpillars that kids will love to decorate. Start by cutting the carton into sections of three or four cups.

Let your kids paint them bright green or any color they desire, adding googly eyes for personality. These self-adhesive wiggle eyes are perfect for giving each caterpillar a unique character, making the crafting experience even more engaging.

Once painted, they can thread pipe cleaners through one side to mimic antennae and add legs made of assorted craft beads or buttons. The flexible pipe cleaners are easy for little hands to manipulate, allowing for creative expression, while the colorful beads add a fun touch to the caterpillar’s design.

This craft not only allows for creativity but also incorporates learning about the lifecycle of butterflies. Kids can create an entire garden of colorful caterpillars, making it a fun, educational experience!

Suggestions: Use markers or glitter for extra flair!

Encourage kids to learn about different types of caterpillars and butterflies, creating a lovely tie-in to biology lessons.

Product Recommendations:
• pipe cleaners
• assorted craft beads

3. Tin Can Lanterns

Repurposing tin cans into lanterns is a delightful evening project that adds charm to your outdoor space. Start by rinsing out the cans, filling them with water, and freezing them overnight. The next day, once the ice has been removed, use a hammer and a nail to punch holes into the can, creating beautiful patterns.

To make your lanterns truly stand out, consider using waterproof paint for outdoor crafts to paint the outside, or let the kids decorate them with stickers. This paint ensures that your creations not only look great but also withstand the elements.

After decorating, place a LED tealight candle inside for a stunning glow at night. These flameless candles are perfect for this project as they provide a safe and flickering light without any risk of fire.

For easy hanging, wrap some craft wire for hanging lanterns around the can. This strong, clear wire will not only add functionality but also enhance the aesthetic of your lanterns without being intrusive.

This project can encourage discussions about safe outdoor activities and the importance of responsible craft projects that don’t pollute the environment.

Product Recommendations:
• waterproof paint for outdoor crafts
• LED tealight candle
• craft wire for hanging lanterns

4. Fabric Scrap Bunting

Got a stash of fabric scraps? Turn them into a festive bunting! Kids can help cut out fun shapes from the fabric using fabric scissors, which are perfect for cutting through various materials with ease and precision. Once they’ve crafted their shapes, they can glue them onto string or ribbon using a hot glue gun, ensuring a strong and secure hold for their creations.

This craft is perfect for any celebration, be it birthdays or just a fun playdate. Kids can mix and match colors, patterns, and textures, creating a personalized garland that brightens up any space. To hang their bunting, consider using colorful string or ribbon, which adds an extra pop to their decorations. Once complete, hang it in their room, or use it to decorate for a special event. Crafting bunting not only hones their fine motor skills but also nurtures their sense of style!

Suggestions: Try using old clothes or sheets for a more personal touch! Discussing design principles like color theory can turn this fun activity into a mini art lesson!

Product Recommendations:
• fabric glue
• fabric markers
• rotary cutter

5. Upcycled Jewelry from Buttons

What to do with those mismatched buttons? Turn them into unique jewelry! Kids can design necklaces, bracelets, or even hair accessories using buttons and some thread.

Simply thread a variety of buttons onto elastic string for jewelry making for a sturdy and stretchy base. This strong and transparent thread will ensure that their creations hold up during wear and play. Encourage kids to mix sizes and colors from assorted craft buttons to create their own style. This hands-on activity is not just a fun craft, but also a practical lesson in design and patience. Plus, you’ll end up with beautiful accessories that proudly showcase their hard work!

For an extra touch of flair and texture, consider adding bead assortment for jewelry making to the design. These colorful beads can enhance their creations and offer a variety of styles.

Encourage kids to give their jewelry as gifts, fostering a sense of generosity and sharing. This activity not only keeps them busy for hours but also allows them to express their creativity and thoughtfulness!

Product Recommendations:
• elastic string for jewelry making
• assorted craft buttons
• bead assortment for jewelry making

6. CD Mosaic Art

Old CDs can be transformed into stunning mosaic art pieces! Gather your old discs and break them into pieces (safely!) to create a unique art project.

Kids can design anything from animals to abstract shapes, using glue to secure the pieces onto a canvas or cardboard base. For this, a reliable adhesive like Bostik PVA glue is perfect. It’s multi-purpose, solvent-free, and dries clear, making it ideal for arts and crafts projects.

The shimmering effect of the CD pieces makes for eye-catching artwork that can be displayed proudly at home. To really enhance the final piece, consider using canvas panels as a base. These 100% cotton canvases are acid-free and triple primed, providing a sturdy foundation for your mosaic creations.

This project encourages creativity while also providing a tactile experience that kids will love. To make the artwork even more vibrant, an acrylic paint set with 24 colors can be used to create beautiful backgrounds for the mosaic. The rich hues will add depth and interest to each piece.

Additionally, exploring the history of CDs and music with your kids while crafting merges creativity with learning, making this a fun and educational project for everyone involved!

Product Recommendations:
• Bostik PVA glue
• canvas panels
• acrylic paint set

7. Paper Roll LEGO Holders

Transform waste cardboard tubes into handy LEGO holders! It’s a simple project that the kids can help with, while also teaching them about organization.

Start by cutting the tubes into varying lengths, then let your kids unleash their creativity by decorating them. An acrylic paint set can provide vibrant colors for their designs, making the project even more fun. They can also embellish the tubes with a sticker variety pack, which includes over 550 puffy stickers in various themes. This added decoration not only personalizes their holders but also keeps them engaged for hours.

Once decorated, these tubes can be used to store and sort their LEGO pieces, helping to keep their play area tidy. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to discuss the importance of organization and recycling in their daily lives.

Make it a game by challenging them to sort their LEGO by color or size! You’ll be providing a hidden lesson in problem-solving and encouraging them to think creatively while playing.

Product Recommendations:
• acrylic paint set
• sticker variety pack
• craft scissors

8. Upcycled T-Shirt Tote Bags

Old t-shirts can find new life as stylish tote bags, making this a simple and fun sewing project for kids to learn basic stitching skills. To create a tote, cut off the sleeves and neckline of a t-shirt, then tie the bottom closed. This project is not only practical but also encourages creativity and self-expression!

To personalize their bags, kids can use fabric markers set to draw or write their names, and they can enhance their designs further with iron-on patches variety pack or even some sequins. These embellishments allow kids to make their tote bags truly unique, showcasing their personality.

Additionally, this upcycling project highlights the importance of reducing plastic waste. By making reusable tote bags, kids learn about the environmental impact of plastic bags and how alternatives can contribute to saving the planet. These tote bags are perfect for trips to the library or beach and give old shirts a second chance.

Encourage your little ones to make matching bags for family members, fostering a fun crafting activity that everyone can enjoy together! To help them get started, consider providing a sewing kit for kids, which comes with all the basic tools and instructions they need to embark on their crafting adventure.

Product Recommendations:
• iron-on patches variety pack
• sewing kit for kids

9. Wine Cork Stamps

If you have a collection of wine corks, they can be turned into fun stamps! Kids can use them to create patterns or images on paper. Simply cut the cork into various shapes or use them as is, dip in paint, and stamp away! This craft is a delightful way to explore print-making while being eco-friendly. Pair this activity with some fresh paper, like this craft paper pad, and let the creative juices flow! Kids can create wrapping paper, greeting cards, or just art for fun!

To add an extra splash of color, consider using an acrylic paint set with vibrant hues. This will make their designs pop and encourage them to experiment with different color combinations.

Additionally, if you’re in need of more corks for stamping, grab a bulk pack of wine corks to ensure they have plenty to work with!

Suggestions: Introduce different colors of paint for a more vibrant design! Discuss the concept of printmaking as a form of art and its history during the activity.

Unleash creativity with upcycled crafts! Turn simple wine corks into fun stamps for hours of imaginative play. Paint, stamp, and create – your child’s art adventure awaits!

Product Recommendations:
• craft paper pad
• acrylic paint set
• bulk pack of wine corks

10. Upcycled Pet Food Can Planters

Turn empty pet food cans into charming planters! After thoroughly cleaning the cans, kids can paint them in bright colors using an acrylic paint set. This set includes 24 vibrant colors perfect for adding a personal touch, making the crafting experience even more enjoyable. They can also decorate the cans with stickers or washi tape variety pack for some extra flair, featuring colorful designs that will make the planters truly stand out.

Once decorated, fill the cans with soil and plant seeds or small plants. Choose easy-to-grow plants like herbs or succulent plant seeds for a successful gardening experience! These adorable planters not only beautify a space but also teach kids about gardening and taking care of plants. It’s a hands-on way to witness the life cycle of a plant and encourages responsibility in caring for something living.

Discussing the importance of plants in our ecosystem and the joy of watching them grow will enrich this crafty project, making it both educational and fun!

Product Recommendations:
• Acrylic paint set
• Succulent plant seeds

11. Cardboard Box Playhouse

Large cardboard boxes can be transformed into the ultimate playhouse! Kids can help cut out doors and windows, then paint and decorate the structure to their liking. This project can be a collaborative effort where they design their dream playhouse.

For those cutting tasks, a pair of craft scissors for kids is essential. With their blunt tips and built-in measurement scale, these scissors ensure that little hands can safely and easily make precise cuts, fostering independence and confidence.

Once the structure is cut, it becomes a perfect space for imaginative play, storytime, or even pretend tea parties. Enhance the creative experience with vibrant designs by using a non-toxic acrylic paint set. This paint set features 24 rich, fade-resistant colors that will spark creativity while ensuring safety during play. Painting will also support their motor skills and artistic expression.

Once completed, the playhouse will not only stretch their creativity but also enhance spatial awareness and problem-solving skills as they figure out how to construct their playhouse.

For an extra touch, consider using old sheets to create curtains! Encourage kids to come up with stories or characters that will inhabit their playhouse, deepening their imaginative play.

Product Recommendations:
• craft scissors for kids
• non-toxic acrylic paint set

12. Newspaper Seedling Pots

Old newspapers can be repurposed into eco-friendly seedling pots! Kids will love crafting these biodegradable pots as they prep for planting season. Simply cut the newspaper into strips, wrap them around a small cup, and secure with tape.

Fill these pots with soil and let kids plant seeds of their choice. For a successful start, consider using fast-growing seeds like sunflower or bean seeds—they’re not only easy to grow but also provide instant gratification as they sprout quickly. Once the seedlings are ready, they can be transferred directly into the garden without the mess of plastic pots! It’s a fantastic way to teach kids about gardening and sustainability.

To make the gardening experience even more enjoyable, you might want to consider a gardening tools set for kids. This set includes everything from a trowel to gloves, making it easy for young gardeners to get hands-on in the dirt while learning vital gardening skills.

As part of this gardening project, discussing the importance of composting is a great idea. Composting supports healthy soil, enriching it with nutrients that help plants thrive.

Upcycling newspapers into seedling pots not only reduces waste but also ignites kids’ curiosity about gardening! Let their creativity bloom as they plant seeds and watch them grow, all while nurturing a love for sustainability.

For additional planting ease, you could also look into biodegradable seedling pots. These pots are a fantastic alternative that eliminates the hassle of transferring seedlings later on, making gardening a seamless and educational experience for kids.

Product Recommendations:
• Gardening tools set for kids
• biodegradable seedling pots
• fast-growing sunflower seeds

13. Denim Pocket Organizers

Old pairs of jeans can be repurposed into fun pocket organizers for school supplies or craft materials. Kids will love the hands-on activity of cutting out the pockets and attaching them to a larger piece of fabric or cardboard. To make the assembly process easier, consider using a hot glue gun kit. This mini glue gun heats up quickly and comes with glue sticks, making it perfect for DIY crafts and quick repairs.

These unique organizers can either hang on the wall or sit on a desk, helping keep things tidy and easily accessible. Encourage kids to add their personal touch by decorating them with fabric markers. This set includes a variety of colors, allowing them to create vibrant designs, making the organizers not just functional but stylish as well.

In addition to the fun of crafting, organizing materials teaches kids valuable skills. A well-organized workspace can enhance focus and creativity, making crafting easier and more enjoyable.

Moreover, this project supports textile recycling, contributing to sustainability in fashion. By transforming old jeans into useful items, you’re helping reduce waste and fostering an appreciation for eco-friendly practices. It’s a win-win for both creativity and the environment!

Product Recommendations:
• Hot glue gun kit
• fabric markers
• cardboard sheets

14. Bottle Cap Magnets

Those old bottle caps can be transformed into fun magnets! Kids can decorate the caps with paint, stickers, or even tiny photos, and then attach a magnet to the back. For the magnets, consider using magnetic strips for crafts, which come in a handy pack of 20 self-adhesive dots that are perfect for this project.

These magnets are ideal for displaying kids’ artwork or important notes on the fridge. It’s a crafty way to teach kids about upcycling while also creating personalized home décor. Let your child’s creativity shine by using an acrylic paint set featuring 24 vibrant colors. They can unleash their artistic talents as they paint their bottle caps with unique designs.

To add that extra flair, a sticker variety pack can provide 550+ puffy stickers for kids to personalize their creations. This makes it a fun family activity where everyone can create a unique set of magnets!

Moreover, discussing the importance of magnets in everyday life can make this craft both fun and educational. Kids will learn how magnets work while enjoying the creative process, making it a well-rounded project that combines art and science.

Product Recommendations:
• magnetic strips for crafts
• acrylic paint set
• sticker variety pack

15. Upcycled Ribbon Wands

Old ribbons can be transformed into delightful wands for imaginative play! This is an easy craft that kids can do mostly on their own. Simply attach long strips of ribbon to a wooden dowel like these wooden dowels for a sturdy base.

Encourage kids to mix colors and patterns using these assorted ribbons for extra fun! Once complete, they can swirl their wands around, perfect for playtime or dress-up. This craft also helps with motor skills and encourages imaginative play, supporting their development in a fun way.

Make sure to have a good pair of scissors handy, like these craft scissors, to help cut the ribbons into the desired lengths.

Suggestions: Host a little parade or performance to showcase their wands!

Discuss the importance of imagination in childhood and how it supports creativity and problem-solving skills.

Let the magic of upcycled crafts inspire your child’s imagination! With just a few ribbons and a stick, they can create whimsical wands for endless playtime adventures.

Product Recommendations:
• Wooden dowels
• assorted ribbons
• craft scissors

16. Upcycled Crayon Shapes

Gather those broken and old crayons to create new crayon shapes! Kids can help peel the wrappers off the crayons with a handy crayon peeler tool, making this step easy and fun. Once the wrappers are off, they can place the crayon bits in silicone molds for crayons and bake them in the oven.

This project not only reduces waste but also provides kids with exciting new colors to use while coloring! Let them create shapes like hearts, stars, or animals for an extra touch of fun. It’s a great way to engage them in a simple cooking project while also crafting.

Encourage them to experiment with different color combinations to produce unique crayons! Discuss the various colors and how they mix to create new shades during the activity.

Product Recommendations:
• Silicone molds for crayons
• Crayon peeler tool
• Baking sheet for crafts

17. Recycled Paper Beads

### 17. Recycled Paper Beads

Turn old magazines or wrapping paper into beautiful beads! Kids can cut strips of paper and roll them into beads, securing them with a strong adhesive. We recommend using Craft Glue for Kids, which is non-toxic and safe for all ages—perfect for little hands eager to create. Once dry, they can be strung together to create unique jewelry or decorations.

This craft not only unleashes creativity but also teaches kids about recycling in a hands-on way. Plus, creating jewelry is always a hit! They can gift their creations or use them in other crafts, keeping their hands busy for hours. For an extra touch, apply a clear sealant like Clear Acrylic Sealer Spray to make the beads shiny and durable, ensuring they last longer and look great.

Discussing the impact of paper waste during this fun activity can deepen kids’ understanding of the importance of recycling. By transforming potential waste into something beautiful, they learn valuable lessons while enjoying their crafting time.

Product Recommendations:
• Craft Glue for Kids
• Clear Acrylic Sealer Spray
• Scissors for Kids

18. Upcycled Pet Toy from Old Socks

An old sock can become a delightful toy for your furry friends! Kids can help fill it with leftover fabric or stuffing and tie it off at the end, making it a perfect project for a fun afternoon. To enhance their crafting experience, consider using fabric scraps for crafting. These pre-cut squares come in various colors and patterns, allowing kids to choose their favorites to decorate the sock before assembling it.

Encourage creativity by letting kids sew on eyes or attach additional fabric pieces for flair. They can use crafting scissors for kids to safely cut the fabric, making the process easier and more enjoyable. This craft not only repurposes old items but also provides entertainment for pets, reinforcing values of compassion as kids learn to care for and entertain their furry friends.

Plus, they will love seeing their pets enjoy their creation! For added durability, parents might want to consider using non-toxic fabric glue to help secure any decorations.

Suggestions: Make multiple toys for a fun pet playdate! Discuss the importance of caring for pets and the joys of giving, reinforcing values of compassion.

Product Recommendations:
• fabric scraps for crafting
• crafting scissors for kids
• non-toxic fabric glue

Conclusion

Upcycling is an incredible way to engage kids in fun, creative projects that also promote sustainability. Each of these crafts offers a way to repurpose materials while allowing children to explore their artistic sides.

Encouraging your kids to join in these activities can foster their creativity and provide valuable lessons in resourcefulness. Share your favorite craft ideas and join the upcycling movement at home. Who knows, you might discover a hidden talent for crafting together!



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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Upcycled Crafts and Why Are They Great for Kids?

Upcycled crafts are creative projects that transform waste materials into fun and useful items! They’re fantastic for kids because they encourage imagination and resourcefulness while teaching the importance of sustainability.

By using items that would otherwise be discarded, children learn to appreciate the value of recycling and can enjoy hours of engaging activities without needing to buy new supplies.

How Can Upcycled Crafts Help Develop My Child’s Skills?

Engaging in upcycled crafts can significantly boost your child’s fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. As they cut, glue, and assemble materials, they’ll refine their dexterity and learn to think critically about how to use different items.

Plus, these projects often require collaboration and communication, helping kids build social skills while having fun!

Are Upcycled Crafts Safe for Young Children?

Absolutely! Most upcycled crafts utilize everyday materials that are safe for kids. However, always supervise younger children, especially when using tools like scissors or hot glue guns. You can choose age-appropriate projects to ensure safety while fostering creativity.

Additionally, remember to use non-toxic paints and glues to keep your crafting sessions safe and enjoyable for everyone.

What Materials Are Best for Upcycled Crafts?

You’d be surprised by the variety of materials you can use! Items like plastic bottles, egg cartons, tin cans, old t-shirts, and newspapers are perfect for upcycled crafts. Each of these materials can be transformed into something unique and fun!

Encourage your kids to look around the house for items that might otherwise be thrown away and let their imaginations run wild!

Can Upcycled Crafts Be Educational for Kids?

Definitely! Upcycled crafts can serve as a wonderful educational tool. They can teach children about environmental issues, such as recycling and sustainability, while also incorporating elements of science and art.

For example, making a bird feeder from a plastic bottle can introduce kids to local wildlife, while creating a planter from a can can spark interest in gardening and plant biology!