Spring’s arrival ushers in the sweet smell of new flowers and fresh grass. It’s also a signal for me to do some spring cleaning and get ready for Earth Day. In an effort to reduce, reuse and recycle, I’m trying to use up all those extra scraps of paper, bits of fabric and old bottles that have accumulated in my house. These spring crafts for kids using recycled materials are a great way to clean up while being conscious of my carbon footprint.
Spring Bottle Animals
With a plastic bottle and some paper scraps, you can easily make some adorable spring bottle animals. My daughter and I did bunnies. First, you should take the label off the bottle and clean it. Next, allow the bottle to dry. Finally, cut out a round circle of paper to fit over the bottom of the bottle. Kids can draw an animal face of their choice. After they are done, tape the face to the bottom of the bottle. Next, cut out ears to tape to the top of the bottle.
Spring Diorama
I tend to order a lot of things online. Thus, I always have cardboard boxes. All you need for this craft is an old shoebox or any other small cardboard box. You will also need paint, glue and paper scraps. First, kids should paint the outside box in an earthy tone such as brown or green. Paint all sides except the bottom so it doesn’t stick when it is drying. Next, paint the back of the inside of the box blue and the “ground” green. Finally, use the scraps of paper to create a spring scene. Flowers, birds, grass and spring chickens are all good ideas.
Water Bottle Flowers
I stopped drinking bottled water. However, occasionally we get some for guests or trips. Water bottles are great for crafts. One easy craft is water bottle flowers. Simply take several colors of washable paint and pour it onto a plate. Then, have children dip the bottom on the bottle into the paint and then press onto a piece of paper. For the center of the flower, you can dip the “spout” of the water bottle in a contrasting paint color and press into the middle of the flower. Finally, kids can draw a stem and leaves with a paintbrush (or their finger).
Mixed Media Butterflies
Gather all your old scraps of material and wrapping paper along with stickers and jewels. Cut heavy paper or thin cardboard into a butterfly shape. Then, allow children to glue bits of fabric, lace, wrapping paper and any paper onto their butterflies. You can also make butterflies out of old magazines or even newspapers. Finally, you can attach a string to the top of the butterfly and hang it from the ceiling. Or, use glue dots to attach your butterflies to the wall.
These spring craft ideas for kids using recycled materials will inspire your little “budding” artists.
More from Melissa:
5 Fun Shamrock Crafts for Kids
5 Kids’ Crafts Using Candy Hearts
Setting Up an Arts and Crafts Space for Your Kids
