30 Easy Recycled Crafts for Kids

These paper flowers are so colorful and fun to make. Download these templates before following the steps below to make them (in multiple, sizes, shapes and colors).

1. Cut out 4 pieces of yellow or white paper (depending on what color daffodil you would like) using the first template.
2. Fold the paper in half both vertically and horizontally and open again. Fold the bottom up about ¼” and crease it down.
3. Flip the paper over and fold all the way to the top until you create an accordion.
4. Fold the accordion-folded paper in half and attach the two middle pieces together with double-sided tape.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 with the remaining 3 pieces of paper.
6. Connect all 4 together with a strip of double stick tape to create a flower shape.
7. Cut out a rectangle of orange paper about 2″ x 1.5″ and cut little points on one of the long edges.
8. Roll the rectangle loosely to make a tube shape and connect with a small piece of double-sided tape, folding the bottom edge down to create a flat bottom.
9. Glue the little cup you made into the center of the flower to finish your daffodil.

Turn a dumpster-bound window frame into an entryway organizer. Have your kids help you paint the frame in their preferred color before DIYing unique ways to make it functional, including adding small hooks for keys and compact accessories.

These colorful flowers will last longer than real ones — and only a few materials are required (egg cartons included).

Get the tutorial »

Your little ones will have so much fun making paper flowers to spruce up their room. To make, have them fold dyed cupcake liners in half and cut out petal and fringe shapes. Then fold a piece of floral wire in half and twist around the faux flower stamen. Poke the wire through the center of three to four paper liners. Finish it off by wrapping floral tape around the base of the liners and bringing it all the way down the stem.

SHOP CUPCAKE LINERS

Let your kids search through the recycling pile for materials to make their own robots. Cardboard, tissue paper rolls, canisters and containers can all be added to a pile so they can pick their preferred robot parts.

Get the tutorial at My Mommy Style »

If the zoo is your child’s favorite place, bring the animals right to them! Your little one can make their very own mini and tall giraffes with an assortment of wine corks.

Get the tutorial at Craft Project Ideas »

Believe it or not, this rocket was made with a finished bottle of apple juice. You can use any bottles of juice, water or soda in the house and give kids the freedom to transform them into rockets.

Get the tutorial at No Time for Flashcards »

Teach your kids all about ocean life by teaching them how to make their own little fishies with simple water bottles. Use both standard size and smaller bottles to mix things up.

Get the tutorial at Meaningful Mama »