Reuse & Recycle; DIY Tips

What does DIY stand for? It stands for do it yourself!

Why throw away stuff when it could be made into something useful or decorative?

I will show you ways you’re able to reuse everday objects and transform them into creative pieces!

This page will be focusing on different materials such as plastic, cans, and cardboard as well as some crafts along with their tutorials!

Did you know that not all plastic is recyclable?

There are two main types of plastics: thermoplastics and thermosets. Thermoplastics are plastics that can be heated and reshaped repeatedly, making them recyclable. In contrast, thermoset plastics contain polymers that form irreversible chemical bonds during the curing process. As a result, no amount of heat can break these bonds or remelt the material, making thermosets non-recyclable.

Image Credit: photka

Flower Clip

Ever wanted to make a beautiful clip with items around your house?

You’re at the right place! Below is a tutorial on how to make a flower clip!

What you will need: spoon, fork, candle, brush, paint (desired color), hair clip

Step 1

Melt the spoons and to form petals (they should melt inward)

Step 2

Melt the fork and twist in order to use for the middle of the flower and melt off the handle

Step 3

Paint the petals (spoons) the desired color

Step 4

Grap the spoon petals and apply the super glue to the ends

Step 5

Hold for 7 seconds where the next petal is being applied

Step 6

Use glue to put on the hair clip on the back of the flower

Step 7

Use the super glue to go on the middle of the flower

Images sourced from TIKTOK account (art_lifeeeee; Art_life_98) http;//www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8LqGuR1/

Did you know that aluminum cans are among the most recycable materials?

That’s right!

Aluminum cans are 100% recyclable and are able to be reprocessed in multiple ways.

Throwing away a single alumium can is like pouring away 6 ounces of gasoline!

Image Credit:leonard_c

Here are some interesting fun facts about aluminum cans!

Recycling one can can save enough energy to run….

  • A TV for 2 hours
  • A 14 watt CFL Bulb for 20 hours
  • A computer for 3 hours

There are many ways that cans can be reused if you aren’t able to recycle!

Flower Pots

What you will need:

  • Aluminum cans
  • Paint
  • Soil
  • Desired seeds

Instructions:

  1. Remove the top of the can
  2. Paint the outside of the can
  3. Add the soil in the can and fill up to an inch from the rim
  4. Plan the seeds in the can
  5. Add water

Image credit: ASIFE

How should you recycle cardboard?

Great question!

As long as your cardboard and paperboard are clean and dry, they can go in the recycling bin. However, wet or greasy items, like pizza boxes or fast food containers, are considered contaminants and should be disposed of in the trash.

Contaminated materials can clog sorting equipment and affect the quality of other recyclables. To get the most out of your curbside recycling, make sure to remove any plastic packaging or bags from your boxes. Flattening them also helps save space in your bin for other recyclables.

Have you ever wanted to brighten up your room with items in your own home?

If the answer is yes, you’re in the right place!

Lamp

What you will need:

  • Led Lights
  • Pringles container (Cardboard)
  • Paint
  • Paint Brush
  • Knife or box cutter

Step 1

Paint pringles container to desired color

Images sourced from youtube account: Girl Crafts

https://youtu.be/DT1X3SC6F7Y?si=li0pEmz-w8B5MPBQ

Step 2

Cut 3 diagnal slits an inch wide with the knife or box cutter

Step 3

Make a whole in the back big enough for the LED lights to go in

Step 4

Plug in and enjoy!