The Art of Recycling

The Art of Recycling: Light bulbs 

Going green is one of the ways we can help our planet.  The Art of Recycling hopes to encourage you to create art from objects that most consumers toss away.

As you know, we all contribute to the landfill and it’s over-flowing with items that can be recycled to create fabulous art.  The first challenge is an easy one for all to participate in whether you are an accomplished artist or a recycling devotee.  Although Chanukah, Christmas, and Kwanza have passed, this project can be started now in preparation for next year.  Start collecting those burnt out light bulbs, which can be re-cycled into fabulous ornaments for any occasion.  A simple project and easy to do.

Here’s how to get started making light bulb ornaments:

First clean the light bulbs thoroughly with rubbing alcohol or warm soap and water, then use white paint for your basecoat, let dry and repeat. Let your creativity take it from there.  Paint a scene; make a Santa or a ghost for Halloween, what about fireworks for July 4?  The possibilities are endless.  Paint stars on a curly bulb.  Keep your glue gun handy and add texture with fabrics and buttons or jewelry. To hang, simply attach a pipe cleaner or use the wire from a damaged light cord. Get wire cutters and pick the color you want.  What about a light bulb ornament bouquet from tiny bulbs?  How’s about adding toilet paper cardboard as a holder for place settings, paint the guests name on the cardboard and they get to take the ornament home as a favor.  I can go on and on, but now it’s time for you to create your recycled light bulb ornament.

This can be a solo project, family affair, or fundraising idea.

The Art of Recycling: Buttons

There are a myriad of things you can do with old buttons to create a new look and this month’s Art of Recycling project is one that will have you searching for some pretty ones.

Most everyone has buttons tucked away somewhere, if you don’t, ask relatives or friends if they can part with their button box (that may be difficult).  If that doesn’t work for you, visit your local thrift shop and look for inexpensive garments with great buttons.  Check your closet as well for clothing that no longer fits you, but the buttons are great.

Next, search your drawers and closets for an old vest, tee, or blouse that you absolutely loved, but can no longer wear because of a stain or you’re just bored with it.  Arrange the buttons in a heart, or peace sign over the problem area, then attach with thread.  Voila, it doesn’t get any easier than that.

Well actually, it does get easier.  Upgrade a boring blouse or blazer by snipping off the old buttons and replacing them with unique ones that you've found at craft and thrift stores.  You can make that old blouse or blazer look trendy by using vintage buttons, or choosing different styles and textures for an artsy look.  Make sure the button size fits the hole or you will have to adjust by re-sizing with scissors and/or thread.

Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day are coming.  Greeting cards that you design on your computer, handcraft, or purchase from the dollar store look special when they are embellished with colorful or theme shaped buttons (hearts/shamrocks).  You can mix shapes and colors, or go all red, green or whatever color you have a lot of and glue them on the card.  Let your creative juices flow.

A button magnet is another easy re-cycling art project: Make sure you clean your button in rubbing alcohol, mixed with water, so the glue will adhere.  Create your button design and glue together.  Next, cut a small strip of magnet, and glue that to one or two of the buttons.  If you have old refrigerator magnets, you can recycle the little round magnet.  Just remove old glue and clean with alcohol/water mixture.  Add a small amount of glue to the back of the button and attach magnet.

The Art of Recycling is a creative energy that saves money and helps the environment. What ideas do you have?  Visit www.consignium.com to submit your ideas.