Decorating your home can be an expensive affair, but what if we told you that you can create beautiful decor items for your home from waste materials? Yes, you heard it right! With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can turn waste materials such as old bottles, newspapers, cardboard, and more into stunning home decor pieces. In this article, we will be sharing some of the best out of waste ideas that you can use to decorate your home while also doing your bit for the environment.
Best out of waste: Meaning
Making the best out of waste involves transforming discarded items into useful and inventive creations. Instead of discarding them, numerous household items can be repurposed into imaginative and decorative home accessories. Commonly discarded items such as old newspapers, used bottles, empty tin cans, cardboard boxes, coconut shells, and plastic bottles can be found in almost every household. With some time and ingenuity, these items can yield innovative ideas for enhancing your home decor.
Top materials to make the best out of waste
Creating beautiful decor from waste materials starts with knowing what items can be repurposed effectively. Here are some top materials ideal for upcycling:
- Plastic bottles and containers: Versatile and widely available, they can be transformed into planters, storage containers, or even lamps.
- Glass jars and bottles: Perfect for creating candle holders, photo frames, and terrariums, adding a rustic charm to any space.
- Old fabrics and clothes: Old T-shirts, jeans, and sarees can be turned into tote bags, cushion covers, or mats, giving textiles a new life.
- Cardboard and paper: Easily available and simple to work with, cardboard can be used for storage boxes, coasters, and DIY organisers.
- Metal cans and tins: These make durable organisers, lanterns, and planters, adding an industrial look to decor projects.
- Wooden crates and pallets: These can be reused to make shelves, tables, or wall art, ideal for a rustic or vintage theme.
Source: Pinterest
Check out these DIY room decor ideas for your home
Reasons for making the best out of waste
Source: Pinterest
See also: All about wall hanging craft ideas made of paper
Waste management should begin at home. Reduce, reuse and recycle waste at home to lessen the amount of waste that goes to the landfill. It is a great idea to reuse this waste to help the environment to prosper.
Out-of-waste products enhance the home appeal. When put to the right use, you can create useful things such as handicrafts and accessories.
Easy craft of out-of-waste projects are also an enjoyable and creative way to keep children occupied. Children would enjoy reusing old things to create something decorative. Making art from waste helps children learn new skills and help save the environment by creating best out of waste. It also helps children to learn the importance of recycling waste material. Innovative best out of waste ideas, develops the ability to create and inculcate waste management habits in children.
Housing.com gives you a list of 50 top best out of waste ideas to make attractive useful things and things for home decoration, which are also easy to do. Also, if your children have school projects on the best out of waste, the ideas here can help them to reuse and recycle waste in a creative way.
Know about: type of waste
Best out of waste ideas for your home
Here are some amazing ideas for transforming waste into lovely home decor items.
Best out of waste ideas #1: Bottle craft art
Empty glass bottles are often thrown away. Instead, reuse them for simple decorations at home. Make a table lamp, showpiece, or flower vase out of used bottles. Decoupage (the art of decorating a surface with paper cut-outs and using varnish (or glue) to cover the surface) can brighten the glass bottles. Coloured papers or old magazines pages, good quality glue, and a flat brush are all that one needs to create a stunning bottle that can be used as a decor item.
Plain or coloured glass bottles can be filled with sand and tiny shells. Add coloured fairy lights for a scintillating effect.
Things required:
- Empty glass bottles
- Coloured papers or old magazine pages
- Good quality glue
- Flat brush
- Sand and tiny shells (optional)
- Coloured fairy lights (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #2: Lamps and candle holders from bottles / jars
Source: Pinterest
Bottles of wine, perfumes, jams, coffee and pickles can be creatively reused. Jar table lamps are simple to design. Paste your desired pattern around a glass jar, or paint the bottle with, or wrap it with a fabric. If you are shutting the lid, make sure to leave a vent for air access. Filling a bottle with battery-operated fairy lights is an easy option. Decorating the bottles can be done in various ways like spray painting, stencilling designs onto dried flowers, or sticking embellishments like lace, satin ribbon, glitter, beads, coloured threads, and sequins.
Things required:
- Empty bottles/jars (wine, perfume, jam, etc.)
- Decorative materials such as paint, fabric, lace, beads, etc.
- Battery-operated fairy lights (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #3: Newspaper tea coasters
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
A stylish and sustainable, recycled newspaper coaster set is the ideal addition to any table. Cut open a newspaper halfway across. Then roll each piece on a stick and glue the end, creating tubes. Remove the stick. Flatten each paper tube and roll it to create circles, using glue to secure the ends. Roll more than one tube, one after another, securing ends each time, to create a bigger circle. Once it is the desired size, paint all over and leave to dry. Make coasters from old magazine papers by coating them with nail polish to make them semi-waterproof.
Things required:
- Old newspapers
- Glue
- Scissors
- Paint (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #4: Creative bookmark ideas
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
To engage the child in some simple activity, reuse a wedding card or cardboard and teach them to make a bookmark. Encourage them to create beautiful bookmarks from waste at home such as old magazines, papers, envelopes, cartons, etc. Cut the card into any shape, such as rectangular or a banana or watermelon, etc. Decorate it by painting it or sticking coloured paper on it. You can also write an inspiring quote on it. If you are good at the art of origami, then, just fold it into a fancy shape and stick a small satin ribbon on top. Or make a folded triangle (decorate it like a bird or bunny), to be placed on any page of the book you are reading.
Things required:
- Cardboard or old wedding cards
- Paint or coloured paper
- Satin ribbon (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #5: DIY pen or brush holder from old bangles
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Old bangles (glass, plastic, metal, or thick kadas of lac) are often stacked at home. Your child can enjoy recycling them into a useful pen holder for the desk. Cut a cardboard into the size of a bangle, to make the base. Use an old plastic lid if it is of the same size as the bangle. Take six to eight bangles of the same size. Apply glue to all the bangles and stack them one above the other. Once it is dry, it is ready to be used.
Things required:
- Old bangles (glass, plastic, metal)
- Cardboard or plastic lid
- Glue
Best out of waste ideas #6: DIY plastic bottle pen or comb holder
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Cut out a plastic bottle, decorate it with lace or paint. Or simply cover it with coloured paper, quilled designs, or tiny beads for a fancy stationery holder. An easy way to keep small things neatly, one can also use it as a makeup brush or comb holder or knickknack holder.
Things required:
- Plastic bottle
- Decorative materials such as lace, paint, beads, etc.
Best out of waste ideas #7: Recycle saris to make table mats
Source: Pinterest
Attractive old sarees with embroidery and brocades can be used to make table mats and table covers. Just cut an old embroidered saree, give it a contrast border, and spread it over the table. Bright coloured table covers and runners with Zari borders can be perfect for festive table layouts.
Things required:
- Old sarees
- Scissors
- Thread and needle
Best out of waste ideas#8: Fragrant candle holder using old teacups
Source: Pinterest
Recycle teacups and coffee mugs to make scented teacup candles. Use your favourite fragrance, such as lemongrass, mint, or lemon, along with some wax. Carefully melt the wax and add the fragrance to the cups along with a wick at the centre. You can have multiple candles placed in pretty teacups and decorate centre tables or other corners of the house.
Things required:
- Old teacups
- Wax
- Fragrance oil
- Wick
Best out of waste ideas #9: Decorative candle trays using old mirrors
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Mirrors come in various shapes and sizes. But old mirrors can develop spots. Instead of throwing them, reuse them as sparkling trays for candles. Smoothen the edges of the mirror or fix a wooden frame around it. Place the mirror tray with candles and enjoy the soft reflected glow.
Things required:
- Old teacups
- Wax
- Fragrance oil
- Wick
See also: All about mirror direction as per Vastu
Best out of waste ideas #10: Cupboard organiser from old jeans
Source: Pinterest
Old denim jeans are often found at home. Turn it into a hanging wardrobe organiser. Use the pockets to store knickknacks. If you require additional pockets, make them (or take the help of a local tailor) from additional cloth. Make two loops at the top to place a hanger. The organiser can also be used in the kitchen or kid’s bedroom.
Things required:
- Old denim jeans
- Cardboard
- Glue or sewing kit
Best out of waste ideas #11: Glass jar photo frames
Source: Pinterest
Take a coloured print of the photo you wish to use. Cut it to the approximate size of an old jar. Use glue to hold the photo in place inside the jar and use it as a photo frame. You can also fit multiple photos and make it a revolving photo frame.
Things required:
- Glass jars
- Printed photos
- Glue
Best out of waste ideas #12: Plastic bottle piggy bank
Source: Pinterest
Old water bottles or empty plastic bottles (of vinegar water, juice, etc.) can be reused to make a piggy bank for kids. On one side of the bottle, cut out a slit of about 2 inches long for the coins. The slit should be done along the length of the bottle. Paint the lid of the bottle pink and also paint two nostrils on the lid so the bottle resembles a pig. Stick eyes on the front of the bottle. Cut out two ear shapes from the pink paper and stick them on the bottle. Also, paste a pig’s tail made of paper. Use four waste pieces of bottle corks, or plastic water bottle lids, marbles, etc. and glue them on as the pig’s legs. This will help inculcate the habit of savings in kids, apart from learning to reuse old things creatively.
Things required:
- Plastic bottle
- Paint
- Glue
- Scissors
Best out of waste ideas #13: A vertical garden of plastic bottles
Source: Pinterest
Plastic bottles can be reused to grow plants at home. Cut the bottle, paint it and use it as a small planter. Create a small vertical garden, either on the balcony or the outside the kitchen window, with plastic bottles of different shapes. Choose plastic bottles that can bear the weight of soil, plants, and water. Make a few holes at the bottom for drainage. Pick a spot where there is sufficient sunlight. Make a few shelves or a wire mesh grid to hang the bottles on the wall.
Things required:
- Plastic bottles
- Scissors
- Soil
- Plants
Best out of waste ideas #14: DIY terrarium from recycled glass bowls or jars
If you have wide-mouthed jars with lids, recycle them to make a soothing green terrarium. Use a clean glass container and assemble layers in the order of pebbles and charcoal at the bottom, soil mix in the middle, and the plant on the top. Depending on the size and shape of the glass container, select plants that would fit and grow well. For a bowl-shaped terrarium, opt for plants like syngonium, peperomia, fittonia, button ferns or any miniature, indoor plant. Create a landscape design of an island or a fairy garden and decorate it with miniature ceramic animals, rocks, and coloured stones. Terrariums can be open or closed. Closed terrariums are low maintenance and some can go without water for long. Open terrarium gardens need to be watered, just like potted plants.
Things required:
- Glass container
- Pebbles
- Charcoal
- Soil mix
- Plants
Also check out these terrace garden ideas for your home
Best out of waste ideas #15: Bird feeder
Source: Pinterest
Empty cartons (milk or juice) or old cardboard boxes that usually come with online shopping deliveries these days, can be recycled to make a bird feeder for the garden. Draw and cut out the door and windows of the box. Leave enough of a box at the bottom of the carton to hold the bird seed. Cut two small holes on either side of the top of the carton for the rope or wire to hang the bird feeder. Paint and decorate the feeder. Fill it with birdseed and hang it at a good height on the balcony or garden.
Things required:
- Cardboard box
- Paint
- Birdseed
Best out of waste ideas #16: Ice-cream stick photo frame
Glue the popsicle (ice cream) sticks in a square to create the frame. Use two popsicles for both sides and make a square or rectangle frame. Color the Popsicle sticks and decorate it with paper flowers made from old magazine papers. Tie a ribbon to it to hang on a wall, or you can make a stand to display it on a shelf. Kids will enjoy doing this eco-friendly best out of the waste material craft. This recycling activity develops the child’s motor and creative skills.
Things required:
- Popsicle sticks
- Glue
- Paint
- Decorative materials (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #17: Eco-friendly rakhi
Source: Pinterest
With some creativity, a rakhi for the festival of Raksha Bandhan can be easily made from waste at home. Your child will love making rakhis, cutting and gluing with colourful papers.Reuse satin ribbons that come with gifts or colored threads or old wool lying at home. To make the center base of the circular shape of the rakhi, cut old cardboard from boxes of toothpaste or pencil. Paint the center and decorate it with colored pearls or paper quilling art, pom-poms and much more. Encourage children to use the best out of waste material for decoration.
Things required:
- Cardboard
- Coloured paper
- Decorative materials like pearls, quilling paper, etc.
Best out of waste ideas #18: Reuse tin box as a kitchen organiser
Source: Pinterest
From chocolates to cookies and sweets (rasgullas) many food items are packaged in tin cans these days. Reuse those tins as kitchen organisers, to keep the kitchen neat. After cleaning, decorate the tin with lace, wasabi tape, colored papers, fabric, coir, or simply spray paint it. Use the colourful tin box for storing scissors, knives, spoons, small masala packets, etc.
Things required:
- Tin box
- Decorative materials like lace, paint, etc.
Best out of waste ideas #19: Wooden crate as a shelf
Source: Pinterest
Use discarded wooden crates as functional pieces of DIY furniture. These floating wall shelves can be used to keep small condiments, pickle jars, or potted herbs in the kitchen.
Things required:
- Wooden crate
- Screws
- Screwdriver (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #20: Upcycle an old tray to DIY wallboard or a decorative tray
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Repurpose your old trays to make attractive boards for messages and a to-do list in the kitchen. Place fabric or a cork sheet on an old tray. Or hang a metal tray with paper sheets.
Instead of discarding old serving trays paint them with geometric or floral designs. You can also decorate the tray with ready-made stencil stickers. Stick mosaic tiles or printed fabrics to decorate the tray, add beads as embellishments and laminate the tray.
Things required:
- Old tray
- Decorative materials like fabric, paint, beads, etc.
Best out of waste ideas #21: Waste cardboard boxes into storage boxes
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
These days, due to online shopping, one gets too many cardboard boxes at home. Decorate these boxes with coloured paper, cloth and laces and use them as drawer organisers for the kitchen. You can also stock kitchen napkins in them.
Things required:
- Cardboard boxes
- Decorative materials like paper, fabric, etc.
Best out of waste ideas #22: DIY dustbin with rope
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Ropes are an affordable and easy way to add charm to any recycling project. Recycle an old plastic bucket, huge plastic box, or dustbin by simply wrapping it with a jute cord. Place a disposable garbage liner inside and it’s ready for use. Simple jute rope bins add a rustic and nautical feel to the bathroom.
Things required:
- Plastic bucket or box
- Jute cord or rope
- Glue
Best out of waste ideas #23: Pebbles doormat
Source: Pinterest
Choose small rocks in colours that complement the bathroom tiles. Use an old doormat and good-quality adhesive to stack rocks on it. Place the rocks tightly beside one another without leaving any gaps. Choose flat rocks for maximum comfort.
Things required:
- Doormat
- Small rocks or pebbles
- Adhesive
Best out of waste ideas #24: Decorate plastic containers to make bathroom vanity
Source: Pinterest
Food takeaway containers or ice cream boxes can be easily converted into bathroom tissue boxes or storage boxes for lotions and creams. Paint them, cover them with attractive fancy wrappers and decorate them with shells. You can also use medium-sized seashells as tealight candle holders.
Things required:
- Plastic containers
- Paint or decorative materials
- Shells (optional)
Best out of waste ideas #25: Decorate old mirror frame with shells
The frame of a bathroom mirror looks old and faded after a few years of use. Give it a new lease of life by covering it with delicate shells. Paste the shells randomly and make a perfect piece of art for your bathroom. If you have a small, round mirror, decorate it with pink scallops and place it at the corner of the wall.
Things required:
- Old mirror frame
- Shells
- Adhesive
Best out of waste ideas #26: Old sock puppets
In schools, kids are often asked to work on creative best-out waste projects. Puppet shows are a fun way to learn with stories. Instead of throwing old socks away, you can design cute puppets out of them. Stuff cotton in the socks and paste the eyes, nose and mouth on the sock. You can also add wool for the hair or old loose rubber bands. The kids will enjoy making it and later playing with such puppets.
Things required:
- Old socks
- Cotton stuffing
- Buttons, wool, rubber bands for decoration
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #27: Recycle T-shirts as tote bags
To avoid using polythene bags, which are now banned in India, carry your eco-friendly bag for shopping made from an old T-shirt. Cut the sleeves off the T-shirt first. Then, cut off the neck collar of the T-shirt to make a large opening in the bag. With the shirt inside out, sew a straight line along the bottom cut of the T-shirt. If you do not have a sewing machine, get it stitched from a local tailor or hand stitch this line.
Things required:
- Old T-shirt
- Scissors
- Needle and thread or sewing machine
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #28: Fancy desk organiser from old tins and cardboard boxes
Proper organisation of the desk is important, to ensure that kids can do their homework efficiently. Create a beautiful desk organiser, using old cardboard boxes, tins, colourful paper and ribbons, to neatly stock pens, pencils, scissors, etc. For the base, you will need thick cardboard, or a jute mat, to place and stick small old tins or cardboard boxes or cylindrical cardboard. Reuse what you have – paper scraps in fun colors and patterns, plus paint. Now take the tin container, apply glue and stick the printed sheet of paper to cover it. Take cardboards of different shapes and sizes to make the partitions of the desk organiser. Use a glue gun and paste the cardboard pieces, to build the partition as required.
Things required:
- Tin boxes or cardboard boxes
- Decorative materials like paint, paper, fabric, etc.
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #29: Tyre mirror frame
Turn an old tyre into an elegant mirror frame. You will require an old tyre, a circular wooden frame and mirror for this DIY craft.
Things required:
- Old tyre
- Circular wooden frame
- Mirror
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #30: Egg Carton mirror frame
Create a wonderful frame from used egg cartons and decorate them in the colours of your choice. The items you will require include egg carton, glue, a mirror frame, scissors, etc.
Things required:
- Used egg cartons
- Glue
- Scissors
- Mirror frame
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #31: Metallic Vase
Pick old metallic jars and decorate them. These make perfect flower vase for decorating your living room or other areas of your house like bathroom. The items you will need include old metallic jars, spray paint and artificial plants.
Things required:
- Old metallic jars
- Spray paint
- Artificial plants
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #32: Tyre and rope ottoman
Recycling old tires can be a challenge, but with a few simple steps, you can repurpose them into a comfortable and durable ottoman for your home. Not only is this a great DIY project, but it’s also a safe option for households with children. So instead of tossing out those old tires, try this creative and practical solution for a unique piece of furniture. All you need are a few supplies and enough rope to cover the tyre entirely. The end result will not only be useful but also attractive enough to add to your home aesthetics.
Things required:
- Old tyre
- Rope
- Glue
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #33: Tyre umbrella stand
Are you tired of dealing with dripping umbrellas? Here’s a clever solution using an old tire to create a unique umbrella stand. Simply place it in a corner of your house to add a rustic touch to your living room. All you need is an old tire, a sharp knife, and a wooden dowel.
Things required:
- Old tyre
- Wooden dowel
- Sharp knife
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #34: Jewellery organiser made from an old frame
Say goodbye to the hassle of organising your earrings and necklaces with this lovely vintage-style jewellery organiser. The best part? You can easily make it yourself! Transform an old frame into a stunning wall decoration with a built-in section for storing your precious jewellery. Gather an old, beautiful frame, some lace, and paint, and you’re ready to create your own masterpiece.
Things required:
- Old frame
- Lace
- Paint
- Jewellery hooks
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #35: Bottle cap wind chime
Explore your creativity by repurposing bottle caps into a charming wind chime. Simply create holes in the bottle caps and string them together to craft a rustic and vintage-style chime perfect for your balcony. Gather plenty of bottle caps, decorative beads, metallic divine twine, a glue gun, and an old can lid to complete this delightful DIY project.
Things required:
- Bottle caps
- Beads
- String
- Glue
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #36: Make storage boxes out of shoe boxes
Storing your kids’ clutter will now be made super easy with this DIY project that is inexpensive and made from the waste shoe box. They look gorgeous and can be stacked or kept on the shelf. All you need is some old shoe boxes and pretty sheets, and you are ready to go. Just cut the decorative paper of your choice and glue it neatly on the shoe box, before adding some finishing touches like handles on the sides, or a button closure on the front.
Things required:
- Shoebox
- Decorative paper
- Glue
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #37: Bottle Cap fridge magnets
Upcycling bottle caps into charming fridge magnets is a creative and eco-friendly way to add a personalised touch to your kitchen decor. Gather a collection of bottle caps in various colours and sizes. Clean them thoroughly and let them dry. Then, unleash your creativity by painting or decorating the caps with stickers, beads or even small photographs. Attach small magnets to the back of the caps using strong adhesive, and voila! You have unique and functional fridge magnets that can hold notes, photos or grocery lists in style.
Things required:
- Bottle caps
- Paints
- Small magnets
- Glue
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #38: Plastic spoon lamp
These adorable lamps can be crafted quickly without the need for expensive materials. You can customise the look by painting the spoons to match your home décor. For added creativity, consider making a cluster of plastic spoon lamps by creating 2 or 3 of them and hanging them together at varying lengths. All you need are some plastic spoons, a bulb, a box cutter and glue.
Things required:
- Plastic spoons
- Bulb
- Glue
- Box cutter
Source: Cool Creativity (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #39: Paper cup string lights
Elevate your balcony decor by threading paper cups onto string lights. This DIY project is simple to create and adds a unique touch to your space. It’s also a fun and creative activity that can be given to kids to unleash their inner artists. All you’ll need is a string light, some paper cups, a pair of scissors and paint.
Things required:
- String lights
- Paper cups
- Paint
Source: Her Campus (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #40: CD tea coasters
Create these playful CD coasters using a few old CDs, cardboard, a pen or pencil, glue, scissors, and some fabric. Start by placing the cardboard on the floor, sketching the CD’s frame with a pencil, and cutting it out. For each coaster, you’ll need two circles. Glue the previously cut-out cardboard circles on each side of the disc, covering the centre hole. Get creative by painting the cardboard with your favourite colours. Glue the top of the cardboard, and your functional CD coasters are ready to use.
Things required:
- Old CDs
- Cardboard
- Glue
- Fabric
Source: Etsy (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #41: Kitchen organiser from cold drink crate
Transform an old cold drink crate into a charming spice holder to add a rustic touch to your kitchen. This simple yet effective DIY project offers a space-saving solution. All you need are a few items: an old cold drink crate, extra-large picture hangers to support the weight, and the essential tools, including nails and a driller.
Things required:
- Cold drink crate
- Cardboard
- Glue
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #42: Jewellery hanger from garden rake
Repurpose the metal tooth bar of a garden rake into an innovative jewellery organiser with this easy DIY project. Separate the metal bar, spray paint it to your liking, and create a stylish accessory display. This DIY jewellery hanger is not only functional but also adds a unique touch to your bathroom decor. To complete this project, gather the following materials: the metal part of a garden rake, spray paint for a personal touch, twine for added flair, a drilling machine, and screws.
Things required:
- Garden rake
- Spray paint
- Drilling machine
- Twine
- Screws
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #43: Bottle cap robot
Create a fun and eco-friendly addition to your kid’s room with a bottle cap robot. Gather various bottle caps in different sizes and colours, along with other recyclable materials like cardboard, paper rolls and buttons. Use these materials to construct a quirky robot figure, letting your child’s imagination run wild. This DIY project not only encourages creativity but also promotes sustainability by repurposing waste into playful decor items for the home.
Things required:
- Bottle caps
- Cardboard
- Paper rolls
- Buttons
Source: Fast Company (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #44: Shuttlecock LED lights
Brighten up your home decor with a unique touch by crafting shuttlecock LED lights. Transform ordinary shuttlecocks into whimsical lighting fixtures by inserting LED bulbs or fairy lights inside them. Simply drill small holes in the shuttlecocks to fit the lights, then string them together to create a charming and ambient glow. Hang these DIY shuttlecock LED lights in bedrooms, living rooms, or outdoor spaces for a magical atmosphere that adds a playful flair to any setting.
Things required:
- Shuttlecocks
- LED bulbs/fairy lights
- String
Source: Recyclart
Best out of waste ideas #45: Paper plate mask
Using simple materials like paper plates, paints, markers, and craft supplies, you can design and decorate unique masks for various occasions or playtime fun. Cut out eye and mouth holes from the paper plate and let your imagination guide you as you paint and embellish the mask with patterns, colours, and accessories. Whether for costume parties, school projects, or imaginative play at home, paper plate masks offer endless possibilities for creative expression and entertainment.
Things required:
- Paper plates
- Scissors
- Paint
- Markers
Source: My Happy Birthday Quote
Best out of waste ideas #46: Sock snowman
If you have single socks lying around because you often lose the other half of the pair, don’t toss them out—turn them into a cute snowman! Here’s how you can do it. First, cut a white sock in half and turn it inside out. Fill the sock with sesame seeds to create a sturdy, rounded base. Secure the top with a rubber band. To form the snowman’s head, tie another rubber band about three-quarters of the way up. For the body, glue buttons onto the front. Use map pins to create the eyes and mouth. The top part of a coloured sock can be used as a hat, and a small piece of cloth or ribbon makes a perfect muffler. And there you have it—your sock snowman is ready.
Source: PS (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #47: Ice cream stick bookmarks
Turn those used ice cream sticks into charming bookmarks. Start by washing and drying the sticks thoroughly. Once clean, leave the top quarter of the stick empty, and wrap a ribbon around the remaining length. You can also colour and decorate the stick with pens. For the face, stick on googly eyes and draw a mouth in the empty space at the top.
Source: Pinterest
Best out of waste ideas #48: Tin can lanterns
Transform an old bean or soda can into a festive lantern! Start by washing and drying the can. Fill it with water and freeze it until solid. Once frozen, remove the can and poke two holes on opposite sides for a handle, attaching a wire to create it. Next, use a hammer and nails to punch holes around the can—either in a pattern or randomly. Paint the inside and outside of the can with vibrant colours. Once dry, place fairy lights or tea light candles inside, and your beautiful lantern is ready to shine.
Source: Etsy (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #49: Beach in a bottle
Next time you’re at the beach, capture a piece of it with a DIY beach-in-a-bottle. Start by thoroughly cleaning a plastic bottle, removing the label and any glue. Fill the bottle with sand until it covers about one side when tilted horizontally. Add small seashells and rocks. Mix blue food colouring with water to match the ocean’s hue and pour it into the bottle, filling it about two-thirds full. Top off the remaining third with oil. Seal the bottle’s cap with glue to ensure it stays closed, and let it dry. Tilt the bottle to enjoy a miniature view of the beach and ocean anytime!
Source: Bing (Pinterest)
Best out of waste ideas #50: Mason jar snow globe
Create a charming snow globe using a mason jar. Start by painting the jar’s lid with silver paint. Attach small ornaments like a tiny house, a snowman or trees to the inside of the lid. Fill the jar with water, leaving a little space at the top. Add a few drops of glycerin and a generous sprinkle of glitter to mimic snowfall. Secure the lid tightly onto the jar. When you turn the jar upside down, the lid will serve as the base, allowing you to enjoy a whimsical snowfall. Shake the jar to see the snowflakes dance again and again!
Source: My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia (Pinterest)
Benefits of making the best out of waste
Making the best out of waste is an excellent way to upcycle unused items, combining creativity with environmental responsibility. Here are some benefits:
- Environmental impact: Repurposing waste reduces landfill waste, lowers the demand for new raw materials, and minimises pollution, contributing to a healthier planet.
- Cost-effective decor: Crafting decor from items already at home saves money, offering a budget-friendly alternative to store-bought decor.
- Personalised home decor: Upcycling allows you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect personal style, making your decor unique and memorable.
- Skill development: DIY projects build valuable crafting skills, fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities.
- Eco-friendly lifestyle: Incorporating “best out of waste” practices promotes sustainability and raises awareness about reducing, reusing, and recycling.
Some useful tips to make the best out of waste
- Choose the right materials: Look for materials that are sturdy, easy to work with, and won’t degrade quickly.
- Clean the materials: Before using any waste material, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or odours.
- Plan ahead: Sketch out your ideas and plan how you will use the waste material to create your decor item.
- Be creative: Don’t limit yourself to traditional decor item ideas. Think outside the box and come up with unique and innovative ways to use waste material.
- Consider the overall aesthetic: Keep in mind the colour scheme, style, and overall look you want to achieve with your home decor items.
- Use safe and non-toxic materials: Make sure any additional materials, such as adhesives or paints, are safe and non-toxic.
- Pay attention to details: The little details can make a big difference. Take the time to add finishing touches and ensure everything is securely attached.
Safety tips for best out of waste projects
When working on DIY “best out of waste” projects, safety is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use the right tools: Always use appropriate tools for cutting, glueing, or crafting, and keep them out of reach of children.
- Wear protective gear: If working with sharp objects or adhesives, wear gloves and safety goggles to protect your hands and eyes from accidental injuries.
- Ventilate the workspace: Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated, especially when using strong adhesives, paints, or any material that may emit fumes.
- Handle glass carefully: Broken glass and other sharp materials should be handled with caution. Use a protective cover and avoid working with delicate materials around children.
- Child supervision: If children are involved, supervise them closely to prevent them from handling sharp tools or potentially hazardous materials.
Housing.com POV
The practice of creating home decor items from waste materials not only adds a unique touch to your living space but also contributes to environmental sustainability. With a plethora of ideas ranging from simple crafts to functional pieces, repurposing waste into decorative items offers numerous benefits. Not only does it provide an opportunity for creativity and resourcefulness, but it also helps in reducing waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. Whether it’s transforming old bottles into elegant lamps or crafting jewellery organisers from discarded materials, the possibilities are endless. By embracing the concept of “best out of waste,” we not only beautify our homes but also play our part in preserving the planet for future generations. So, let’s continue to explore our creativity and turn everyday waste into extraordinary decor pieces, one project at a time.
FAQs
How can I decorate my house with waste material?
You can embellish your home with waste materials by creating recycled art, such as photo frames, wall hangings or unique plant pots. Repurpose old items like newspapers, jars or fabric scraps into stylish decor pieces.
How can kids make the best out of waste?
Kids can unleash their creativity by crafting art projects, toys or simple home decorations from recyclable materials. Activities like making cardboard robots or creating paper mache masks are both fun and eco-friendly.
What can be made out of waste?
Waste materials can be transformed into a multitude of items, including furniture, fashion accessories, jewellery and even garden planters. The possibilities are endless.
What can we make with plastic bottles?
Plastic bottles offer versatile options for crafting. You can craft bird feeders, vases, pencil holders or even chandeliers using discarded plastic bottles. These projects reduce plastic waste and add character to your space.
What can I do with old bangles?
Old bangles can be repurposed into vibrant home decor like wall art, wind chimes or unique lampshades.
How can one make the best waste material decoration for the main entrance?
Make toran from old wool (pompom) or wrap colourful threads around bangles. You can also use old Rakhi’s (which have motifs of Ganesha and Om), mirror pieces, and silk threads. Leftover wooden pieces or sturdy cardboard can be used to make fancy nameplates.
What waste can be used for Diwali decorations?
Reuse old earthen diya by painting and decorating them. Recycle glass bottles with mirchi lights. In old glasses add some coloured water flower petals, along with floating candles. Stick six or eight multi-coloured metal bangles together, place them on a coaster and place diya inside it. Decorate old chopping boards or cardboard wedding cards boxes with golden zari, pearls, and mirrors to create a diya platter.
How can one repurpose coconut shells for home decoration?
Clean out the shell and let it dry. Paint the coconut shell and use it to keep rubber bands, keys, pens, erasers, and hair clips. You can also grow a small plant in the coconut shell. While half a coconut shell can work, ideally cutting three-quarters of its height works best for a coconut shell plant holder.
