One mans trash can be another man’s treasure. In the art of recycling crafts this is the golden rule.I learned how to make my first toothbrush bracelet in the sixth grade and have become a devoted re-shaper ever since. Making things out of reused materials is almost unlimited. I’ve seen dresses made out of Fabric Shower Curtain , earrings made out of guitar picks and even chairs made out of Shower Curtain Rods ! Making things yourself saves money and personalizes everything! I am becoming a pro at making record bowls, toothbrush bracelets, and tote bags.
Record bowls are always my back-up gift. I make them when birthdays sneak up on me or I just feel like a present needs an extra touch. It is literally a bowl made out of a record. I found the idea from a website that made cups out of them, but when I tried that it just didn’t work. The first step is to acquire. I advise going to thrift stores in your town. You can find records for just a couple quarters each!. I try to find ones that have bands I know; or ones with cool designs. After you get your records, all you will need is an oven, an oven-safe bowl, and a cookie sheet. Preheat your oven to around 350 degrees and put the bowl upside-down on the cookie sheet. Balance the record on top of the bowl so that the circle of the record aligns with the circle on the bowl. As the record heats, it will take the shape of the bowl but it stays cool and hard enough that you can touch it and it won’t stick to your bowl. You can shape your bowl to have waved edges or an interesting shape.
Toothbrush bracelets are stylish and whimsical. You may be worried about comfort or appearance, but trust me, they are great. Children’s toothbrushes are the perfect size and come in funky designs. This is also a really low maintenance craft; all you need is a pot, water, pliers, and tongs. Using your pliers, remove the bristles from the head. Bring the water to a boil and place the toothbrush in the pot. Let it soften and then after about five minutes pull it out and bend the ends in with the tongs. Place aside to cool and your set!
Tote bags are harder than the other two items, but not too difficult. Obtain two types of fabrics and a sewing machine or a needle and thread. Cut out four squares of fabric, two of each. Sew the edges of each similar-patterned fabric together and turn one inside out. Then sew the lining to the outside of the bag. The purse body is finished, now you just have to buy or make handles. Once you add the handles, you have your own completely one-of-a-kind tote bag!
Crafts are timeless activities that are convenient and cheap. They reduce the price of jewelry almost 80% It’s the ultimate way to personalize your style. The homemade craft industry is growing into a big money maker. It’s a growing fad, and you better jump in now!
