If you’re anything like us, the kids always end up getting a ton of presents which means a ton of waste. No matter how much we ask for experiences not things, it never truly turns out that way. Luckily, there are ways to turn waste into purposeful objects and give them a second life!
1. Wrapping Paper
Wrapping paper is the gift that keeps on giving, literally! Wrapping paper can be saved and reused for future gifts whether it be for birthdays, anniversaries, or Christmas. Pro tip: save the brown paper that comes in packages to use as wrapping paper! Ribbons and bows should be reused as well!
2. Cardboard Boxes
This is by far the most fun, albeit the most work. But cardboard boxes make great playhouses! Not only are you repurposing boxes for fun which can last months – you can also repurpose wrapping paper to decorate and make them unique and festive! Check out this step by step guide on how to make the best cardboard box playhouses ever!
3. Christmas Trees
This one is a bit harder to use the whole tree, but there are things you can do to make sure you get the most out of a live tree! Pine needles can be used in a homemade holiday tea but only spruce and fir trees are edible. There are many benefits including it being full of antioxidants and stress relief.
Use branches and make upcycled ornaments for next year. The needles can also be made into a homemade paintbrush for little ones! If you’re really handy, check out this tutorial for making blocks out of Christmas tree trunks, or checkers out of the branches here. When done, find out where in your local city they recycle trees and turn them to compost. You can even trade in the tree for a fresh bag of compost to use in your garden!
4. Holiday Cards
We love sending and receiving Christmas cards. But what other purpose do they have other than being displayed for the holidays? Well, you can cut them into cool designs and use as gift tags for next year! If you REALLY want to be crafty, cutting out each family’s pictures and using that as a super personal gift tag!
Of course, not everything can be reused. What’s important is being conscious and mindful of our impact on this world. If you can’t reuse – then recycle! Pay careful attention to your local recycling laws too! If you’re creative, anything can be repurposed! Well, almost anything!
Here’s to a safe, happy, and healthy holidays!
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