The Eco Boxy Felt Camera Case by claraiuribe

In praise of people who are committed to crafting in an environmentally friendly sort of way, I am sharing some Etsy finds that reuse old stuff to make nice new things. Upcycling!

In my last article I wrote about some of the great things that are being made from rubbish such as plastic bags.

This article focuses on the various bits and bobs most crafty people have stashed around the house (you know who you are) – buttons, bows, old tape, you name it, it can be reused and upcycled into a wide variety of produects..

From simple buttons. . .

Felt and Vintage Button Table Set by GraceInspired

to sparkly buttons,

vintage button bracelet...06 by vintagefurcouture

old knitting needles. . .

Multi-Coloured Knitting Needle Necklace by LianaKabel

to measuring tape. . .

Tri-Fold Tape Measure Wallet in White by undoneclothing

and even coloring pencils,

Blue Whistle Pencil Necklace by pencillady

and old zippers. . .

Recycled Zip Flower Rose Brooch 10 Pack by Rosezips

The moral of this story? Being a magpie is not such a bad thing. Sometimes it’s the things we stash away that can become the creative inspirations of the future.

Do you upcycle old stuff to make new things? Let us know!