Recycling paper cups: here's 6 projects that both kids and adults will enjoy taking on
We all use paper cups (aka dixie cups), and then we usually throw them in the trash. But this "trash" can be recycled - by kids and adults alike - into cute toys and decorations. All that's really needed is a creative idea and a few hours of free time. As for specific ideas, check out the ones listed below:
Colorful windmills
Tutorial via thepinterestedparent.com
All toys need to be colorful! And these adorable windmills will not disappoint. You will need markers, watercolors or even acrylic paint to paint their exteriors. Then, use a pencil and marker (or a fine brush and black paint!) to draw on doors and windows. Scrap pieces of cardboard can be cut up to create the blades.
How you decorate them further rests with you!
Cute puppets
Tutorial via thiscraftyfamily.com
Have you ever looked at a paper cup and thought "that could really make a cute horse!"? Perhaps this is not an immediate idea to have, but check out what can be done in this picture! Once you've made your horse - or even a unicorn or pegasus - you just need to add a bit of thread to turn it into a full-fledged puppet.
A waving penguin
Video Tutorial via (SasaTube)/YouTube
To make a penguin, you need two paper cups, and then it's just a matter of making the cuts at the right points, fitting the various pieces together. Once assembled, a vertical sliding movement will get the penguin to wave.
Are you already thinking about how many different colors you could use for this project?
Relax while weaving
Tutorial via innerchildfun.com
A project suitable for kids and adults is to decorate paper cups with wool. The cups are not just wrapped in wool thread but get their "jackets" by weaving the wool through vertical cuts made into the sides - as shown here. Additionally, you can combine multiple colors together to produce colorful creations.
Once finished, these handmade cups can serve as pen holders and/or desk organizers, for example - much more satifying than just buying these items.
A mini basket
Video tutorial via artsdawn/Instagram
Using a modified version of the above technique, you can create small baskets, like the ones shown here. And instead of wool, you could use string. These creations can then be used as mini pot holders for succulents.
A paper lantern in the shape of a flower
Video tutorial via Wonder Crafts/YouTube
With a few paper cups, cuts in the right areas and a little patience, you can produce this wonder: a very delicate lantern that looks just like a white peony. Imagine how beautiful this will look as a decoration in the house!
Have you ever taken on craft projects using paper cups?
