How to Reuse Paper Bags

Before talking about ways to reuse paper bags, here's a short documentary that explores whether paper bags or plastic bags are better for the environment.



From here on out, we'll all remember to take our reusable canvas bags to the grocery store, right?

Here's what you can do with all your leftover paper bags:

1. You can reuse them as bags. (obviously)
2. You can use them in any way you would use any paper. Cut them so they are flat and then draw on them, paint on them, etc. (although, they are not acid-free)
3. Make a paper bag scrapbook. Here's my paper bag scrapbook tutorial
4. Decorate it and use it as wrapping paper
5. Cover your books
6. Use them to mail things. You can cut apart and wrap your item in the paper to mail it, or use the bag as cushion for inside.
7. Make a paper bag basket
8. Make a puppet! (video below)



What other ways do you reuse/recycle paper bags?

Upcycled Button Flowers in a Pot

Upcycled Button Flowers in a Pot , originally uploaded by B.B. Bellezza.

I made this little creation last night. I have been making these button flowers for a while, but in stems, not in a "planted pot." I stopped at the craft supply store to get more stems to make some more bouquets, and these terracotta pots were next to the stems, along with the Spanish moss. I then pictured this lovely pot of button flowers and decided to go for it.

I was picturing a more evenly dispersed, full pot of button flowers in the pot, as well as the flowers making a perfectly round umbrella over the pot. I like it with all its imperfections, though, I think it looks very natural.

I was thinking I would sell this at my stand at BUiLDiNG CHARACTER, it would make a fabulous Valentine's Day gift, after all. But, I think that I love it. Lately I have been a lot better about not trying to keep everything I make, so maybe it's time for a little gift for myself....

It's FRIDAY!!!!YAY!!!!!

I have had a really rough week. I am kind of exhausted and feel beat up. But sort of revitalized because it is the weekend!! (a/k/a I hate my day job.)

So, I have just been working on something that is cool and I want to show you!














I have been making the Repurposed Washer and Ribbon Choker Necklaces for a while. What is new is the packaging. They are repurposed CD cases. I have tons of these stored because I put all my cd's in a book. Finally, I have found something do do with them! You can find these in my Etsy Shop under the Hardwear Jewelry Section! More to come this weekend!! Enjoy your weekend!!