Explore our collection of recycled art projects for kids and turn trash into treasure! These ideas are the perfect mix of fun and educational.
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Turn items from the recycle bin into kids’ art projects in no time! From upcycled bottle caps to cardboard boxes and more, we’ve gathered a great collection of creative kids’ art projects to inspire them to use their imagination.
There is nothing like learning through the art of play. Turning items that would otherwise be discarded is the perfect way to teach kids all about the importance of recycling. Plus, it’s a frugal activity that doesn’t hurt the wallet either! So, it’s a win-win for both kids and parents.
Recycling Art Tips
A great way to plan for kids recycling art activities is to always keep a stash of supplies on hand. Some of the most used items include:
- cardboard boxes – check out our cardboard box fort
- toilet paper rolls – enjoy these 33 paper tube crafts
- bottle caps
- wine corks
- bubble wrap
- empty milk jugs, coffee cans, or other containers – here are 15 milk jug crafts
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Creative Recycled Art Projects
Now that we’ve talked about some of the most common recyclable items you can use in kids’ art projects, let’s take a look at some great DIY ideas. These are all easy enough for kids ages 5-12 and possibly older.
19 Genius Recycled Art Projects For Kids
Get ready for a ton of inspiration with these clever recycled art projects perfect for elementary age school children.
Save those pencil shavings and learn how to make unique pencil shaving art. It's a fun and creative art technique perfect for kids!
There are so many possibilities for art using old bottle caps. This apple tree is just adorable! You can also paint the caps red if you want for a bright pop of color.
Learn all about creating art from empty recyclable materials like plastic bottles, cardboard tubes and other items commonly thrown out.
Milk jugs are a popular item for kids crafts. This DIY sun catcher is one of just many recyclable ideas for your next kids art project.
Get ready to have your socks knocked off with this stunning firefly art project. It is so much easier than you think to create. What a beautiful addition to a kid's bedroom.
We all have that junk drawer filled with stuff that we may need someday. Why not put those items to good use and create mixed media art? This is such a fun idea!
Have you ever seen a pair of groovy glasses like these? Can you believe they are made from recycled CD's? This art project will be a favorite!
Gather a mix of recycled materials to make bright and colorful kids art. This project works great for a group activity, or can be used as an individual project that would look cute framed.
Get all the details on how to make unique collage art with recycled items. There are no limits when it comes to this DIY project. Let kids imaginations run wild with this idea!
Have you heard of scratch art? Learn all about how to make scratch art using recycled CD's. It's a very easy and creative project.
Use old bubble wrap to create the prettiest chameleon craft with this easy art technique.
Follow the simple step-by-step tutorial to create recycled magazine art that is quite impressive. Kids of all ages will enjoy this process.
Kids can make their own painted art masterpiece using a recycled wooden jigsaw puzzle. What a clever idea!
Make monogram wall art by recycling magazines. You can make words, letters, or quotes. This is a great idea for a classroom, kids' playroom or even a bedroom.
Save those empty brown bags! They are the perfect material for notebook covers, book covers and so many other art projects.
Instead of finger painting, kids can try this mess-free art project using empty bottles that can be cleaned and filled with paint. What a cool idea!
Collage making is made easy with this step-by-step tutorial using recycled materials. Kids can use their imagination to create whatever design they like.
Instead of throwing out those broken crayons, turn them into art with melted crayon art. Kids will get a kick out of creating and framing this for their home, or to give to grandparents.
We all know how much kids like to create self art or family art. With old cardboard they can create self art that is sure to bring a smile to their face!
We hope we’ve given you a great start for some unique and cool kids’ recycling art projects. These DIY ideas are just a start. The possibilities truly are endless. If you make any of these projects, please share it with us @CampBackyard on Facebook. Happy creating!
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