Save some money when you repurpose stuff that you would normally throw out

Recycling is not only good for the environment, but it's also a wonderful way to repurpose materials you may have thought weren't worth saving. With some time and imagination, you can create cool DIYs from such items and materials.
Think twice next time you toss out a cardboard box or packing material. Instead, consider how you could use it in your next craft project.
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1. Toilet paper roll art
With a bit of spray paint, even cardboard tubes become cool floral artwork. You'll never be able to tell where this piece began, but it's a truly interesting way to repurpose cardboard tubes into something beautiful.
2. Box baskets
Shipping boxes. Everyone has them, and most people just toss them into the trash or recycle them. Rescuing a few boxes, however, can provide you with the perfect base for a handmade basket. Use these baskets to store just about anything; they look pretty and feel sturdy.
3. Clothespin planter
Cans are one of the most versatile items you'll come across. They work well for multiple crafts, such as this cute planter. The paper decorations can be customized to a holiday.
4. Wine bottle soap dispenser
Instead of sending a wine bottle out with the recycling, create a shabby chic soap dispenser for your kitchen or bathroom. This is a cute and fun way to recycle bottles, and you can even give them as housewarming or hostess gifts.
5. Milk jug votives
Milk jugs have never looked so pretty! Transform plastic jugs into these stunning votives and recycle in style. Battery-powered LEDs are safe and offer a warm glow when placed inside these lights. Liven up your living room or make a centerpiece with these beauties.
6. Magazine flowers
Most of us have stacks of magazines we haven't had time to read or recycle. Instead of heaving them outside in the bin, turn them into art. Select colorful pages from inside to craft fun fake flowers to liven up a room or cheer up a friend.
7. Plastic bottle organizers
Keep markers, pencils and pens organized with plastic water or soda bottles. You don't need special skills or even a sewing machine to create these cool and useful recycled crafts. Kids will love the zipper closures, which keep the items contained if the organizer tips over.
8. T-Shirt tote
Instead of tossing a T-shirt that no longer fits, why not transform it into something useful? Old shirts can instantly become functional tote bags, and they're easy to make — no sewing required. These bags are a simple solution for repurposing shirts. They're handy for toting toys or items to the beach.
9. Candy bar bows
What a cute way to recycle candy bar wrappers. Turn trash into treasure with adorable and colorful candy bar bows. Easy to make, these bows get customized with beads, jewels, or ribbons to create wearable art kids will love.
10. Shrinky dinks
Remember how much you loved Shrinky Dinks as a kid? Give your own kids that same experience using plastic takeout containers. Kids will have a blast coloring and crafting their own shapes and designs, and watching them shrink down in the oven.
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