Monday, February 6, 2012

DIY Trash to Treasure


Recycling, Upcycling, Going Green -- they all mean the same thing; finding a use for your trash. No one wants to say it, because "trash" seems to be a no-no word in the recycling world. But let's face it, where would that lovely soup can organizer (a.k.a. 12 pack pop box) be if you had not rescued it from it's untimely demise?! 

Thus, it's our duty to save as many of these poor unfortunate objects as possible. Give them new life, give us organization, decorations, and practical application possibilities. And give Mother Nature a little bit of a break!

To be honest, I pay attention to what packaging items come in and will occasionally, purchase the item with the packaging that I know I can do something with once its contents are gone. Remember that you're not only buying the contents, but consider that once it's gone, can you also turn its wrapper into a candle holder, storage container, or wall art? I find it's easier to accept today's prices if you're able to picture the item as a "Two for the Price of One" deal.

Without further adieu, my latest trash turned terrific!

These three beauties were originally glum, empty wine bottles. A simple makeover landed them a spot in our living room rather than the recycling bin. All you need is two different shades of acrylic paint and some Elmer's School Glue. Start by removing the labels and giving them a good scrub down. When dry, simply paint a solid color all over the bottle. Give it a few hours to set and brush on a layer of Elmer's glue. Wait until the glue is still wet, but reaching the tacky stage and then apply your second color of acrylic paint. Within minutes, you'll start to see the top coat of paint crack. Let dry for 24 hours and then use as you please! I chose to place dollar store artificial flowers in them and use them as vases. They only cost me a dollar and I created a new decor piece for our home, with the added bonus of recycling what would have been trash.

Trash to Treasure!
Saving Lives Daily!

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