Making Sustainable Accessories: Fun DIY Projects

1. Upcycled Denim Bags

Utilizing old jeans can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. To create a stylish bag, gather a pair of old jeans, scissors, and a sewing kit.

Instructions:

Cut the jeans to your desired bag size, typically around 14″ x 16″.
Use the hem of the jeans for the bag’s opening, providing a finished edge.
Cut two straps from the leg material, ensuring each strap is around 3″ wide and 24″ long.
Sew the straps to the bag with cross-stitching for added durability.
You can add patches or embellishments from unused fabric to personalize your creation.

Benefits:
This project not only promotes recycling but also produces a unique accessory that is practical and fashionable.

2. Cork Coasters

Cork is a renewable resource making it an excellent choice for sustainable DIY projects. Cork coasters are simple to make and require minimal materials: cork sheets, scissors, and a craft knife.

Instructions:

Cut the cork sheets into circles or squares, each about 4″ in diameter or width.
Decorate using non-toxic stamps or by burning designs with a wood-burning tool for a rustic finish.
Seal with an eco-friendly varnish to increase durability.

Benefits:
Cork coasters reduce waste while serving both functional and aesthetic purposes in your home.

3. Fabric Scraps Necklaces

Leftover fabric scraps can be transformed into beautiful, bohemian-style necklaces. This project is particularly fun and creative as it allows you to play with colors and textures.

Instructions:

Cut fabric scraps into 1″ wide strips, with varying lengths from 12″ to 24″.
Braid three strips together, tying a knot at each end.
Optionally, add beads or charms to the braids for a decorative touch.
Secure the ends with an additional knot and use a loop of fabric to create a closure.

Benefits:
This project promotes creativity and recycling, transforming unused fabric into fashionable, wearable art.

4. DIY Beaded Bracelets from Recycled Materials

Gather old jewelry or buttons that you no longer use for a DIY beaded bracelet. You’ll need elastic cord and scissors, making this an easy project perfect for all ages.

Instructions:

Sort through old jewelry to extract beads or buttons that can be reused.
Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10″ long.
Thread the beads onto the cord, leaving enough space to tie a knot at the end.
Once you’ve achieved your desired design, tie a secure knot to finish.

Benefits:
Your unique bracelet not only serves as a stunning accessory but also tells a story and reduces waste.

5. Natural and Organic Jewelry

Create jewelry using natural elements like wood, seeds, and shells. This eco-conscious project connects you with nature while crafting beautiful accessories.

Instructions:

Gather natural materials like smooth stones, driftwood, or seed pods.
Using a drill, create holes in stones or wood pieces to form pendants.
Thread the pieces onto a cord or wire.
Decorate with natural dyes if desired or leave them in their raw form for a rustic effect.

Benefits:
This project encourages a connection to nature while promoting the use of biodegradable materials.

6. Recycled Paper Earrings

Transforming paper into earrings combines creativity and sustainability. Gather scrap paper, scissors, and earring hooks.

Instructions:

Cut paper into fun shapes: circles, teardrops, or whatever inspires you.
Coat the pieces with a mixture of glue and water for durability, ensuring they are covered entirely.
Once dry, attach your shapes to earring hooks using jump rings.

Benefits:
This lightweight accessory is a simple and delightful way to showcase artistic talents while recycling.

7. Glass Jar Bracelets

Mason jar lids can become trendy bracelets with just a bit of effort. This unique project requires glass jar lids, paint, and elastic.

Instructions:

Remove and clean the lid, ensuring it is free from any adhesive remnants.
Paint the surface with non-toxic paint and let it dry completely.
Use elastic to connect the lid and ensure a comfortable fit on your wrist.

Benefits:
This upcycling project not only reuses glass but also introduces a quirky design element to your accessory collection.

8. Reclaimed Wood Hair Accessories

Repurposing reclaimed wood can result in stunning hair accessories. With just a few tools, you can create barrettes, combs, or headbands.

Instructions:

Choose a piece of wood from a reclaimed source and cut it to your desired shape.
Sand down the edges for smoothness.
Optionally, paint or stain with eco-friendly products.
Attach hair clips or bands to complete your accessory.

Benefits:
These wooden accessories are durable, stylish, and tell the story of sustainable living.

9. Clay Brooches

Using air-dry clay or polymer clay, you can create custom brooches that are both lightweight and eco-friendly. This DIY project allows for endless creativity in design.

Instructions:

Roll out the clay to your desired thickness and cut shapes using cookie cutters or your hands.
Use tools to carve designs or patterns into the clay.
Allow the clay to dry as instructed or bake if using polymer clay.
Once dry, attach a pin back to the clay piece with glue.

Benefits:
These brooches are a unique way to express creativity while making a sustainable choice.

10. T-Shirt Scarves

This project transforms old T-shirts into fashionable scarves, perfect for adding a pop of color to any outfit. All you need are old shirts and scissors.

Instructions:

Cut the T-shirt horizontally into 1″ strips, including the hem.
Stretch the strips to create a desirable scarf length, resulting in a soft textile.
Braid or knot the strips together for a stylish finish.

Benefits:
This simple and effective project emphasizes sustainability while producing a functional accessory.

11. Recycled Bottle Cap Rings

Crafting rings from bottle caps showcases an innovative way to upcycle. Gather various caps, a ring base, and some glue.

Instructions:

Select bottle caps in different colors or styles to match your fashion sense.
Attach the cap to a ring base using super glue.
Allow drying time to ensure a secure bond.

Benefits:
These rings serve as conversation starters while promoting eco-friendly practices.

12. Pom-Pom Keychains

Transform old yarn into quirky pom-poms for stylish keychain accessories. Gather yarn, scissors, and rings.

Instructions:

Wrap yarn around your fingers or a small cardboard cutout many times.
Tie a piece of yarn tightly in the center to secure the bundle.
Cut through the loops on either side to reveal your pom-pom, then trim for shape.
Attach your pom-pom to a keyring for a pop of color.

Benefits:
This fun project mixes practicality and creativity, resulting in an accessory you’ll use daily.

13. Feathers and Wire Earrings

Use feathers from old accessories or craft stores alongside jewelry wire to create vibrant earrings.

Instructions:

Cut the wire to about 6″ in length and bend it into the desired shape using pliers.
Attach the feathers to the wire by threading them through at various angles for visual interest.
Finish by looping the ends into earring hooks.

Benefits:
This project enhances your jewelry collection while embracing a sustainable ethos through natural materials.

14. Vintage Button Cufflinks

Upcycle vintage buttons into stylish cufflinks, connecting you with history while creating a new accessory.

Instructions:

Select unique, vintage buttons and complementary cufflink bases.
Use strong adhesive to bond the button to the cufflink base.
Allow it to dry fully to ensure durability.

Benefits:
Vintage buttons lend character and story to each pair of cufflinks while promoting sustainability.

15. Braided Newspaper Bracelets

This eco-friendly bracelet can be made using old newspapers, scissors, and glue, showcasing your creativity.

Instructions:

Cut strips from the newspaper, about 1″ wide and 12″ long.
Braid three strips together and secure with glue.
Use additional strips to wrap around the bracelet for a finished look.

Benefits:
This project exemplifies creativity in transforming newspapers into stylish accessories while contributing to environmental sustainability.

16. Flower Petal Hairpins

Using leftover flower petals or dried flowers, you can create beautiful hairpins that celebrate nature.

Instructions:

Collect dried petals and choose hairpin bases.
Secure the petals to the hairpin using non-toxic glue.
Allow drying time before wearing.

Benefits:
These delicate products foster a greater appreciation for nature while adding elegance to your hair ensemble.

17. Wine Cork Keychains

Wine corks make for unique keychains that reduce waste from wine consumption. This project is quick and easy, perfect for personalized gifts.

Instructions:

Gather corks and a keychain ring.
Use a craft knife to cut a small slit in the cork.
Attach the keychain ring through the hole and secure.

Benefits:
These keychains celebrate eco-friendly creation while serving as a personal touch to your everyday items.

18. Shell Necklaces

Natural shells can be turned into stunning necklaces, perfect for showcasing your love for the ocean.

Instructions:

Select shells and clean them thoroughly.
Use a drill to create a small hole in the shell.
Thread through a cord or chain to style it into a necklace.

Benefits:
This project emphasizes the beauty of nature while creating wearable art that remains sustainable.

19. Dried Fruit Accessories

Dried fruit can make interesting and fun accessories, such as earrings or pendants.

Instructions:

Slice fruits like oranges and lemons thinly and dehydrate your creations.
Once completely dried, coat with non-toxic varnish to preserve the color and prevent decay.
Attach to earrings hooks or strings to create fun necklaces.

Benefits:
These unique pieces celebrate the beauty of natural elements while promoting sustainable fashion.

20. Beaded Zipper Pulls

Transform your old zippers into decorative pulls for bags or jackets. You will need beads, a zipper, and string.

Instructions:

Cut a zipper to your desired length.
Thread beads onto your string and tie to the zipper pull.
Create patterns or colors based on your preference.

Benefits:
This small project encourages creative expression while reusing materials in practical ways.

21. Lavender Sachets

Creating lavender sachets is a delightful way to use up fabric scraps while enjoying the calming scent of lavender.

Instructions:

Cut fabric into small squares, about 5” x 5”.
Sew three sides, leaving one side open.
Fill with dried lavender before sewing the final side.
Optional: add a ribbon for closure or decoration.

Benefits:
Sachets not only promote upcycling but also provide a functional accessory that enhances your living space naturally.

22. Twine-Wrapped Bangles

Twine can be transformed into stylish bangles that add a rustic charm to your accessories.

Instructions:

Gather old bangles and twine.
Starting from one point, wrap the twine around the bangle until it’s completely covered.
Secure the end with glue.

Benefits:
These bangles offer a tactile element to your jewelry collection while promoting sustainability.

23. Reclaimed Fabric Key Fobs

Using reclaimed fabric, you can create key fobs that are both colorful and functional.

Instructions:

Cut fabric into 3″ x 6″ pieces.
Fold the fabric and sew along the edges, leaving openings.
Turn inside out and create a loop at one end to attach to your keys.

Benefits:
This DIY project encourages the reduction of waste while offering a splash of color to everyday life.

24. Knotted Cotton Rope Bracelets

Knotted cotton rope can create stunning, trendy bracelets that are incredibly soft and environmentally friendly.

Instructions:

Cut cotton rope to your desired length, typically 12”.
Knot the rope into a pattern, adding beads or charms along the way.
Finish with a double knot for added security.

Benefits:
These bracelets are not only stylish but can also serve as wonderful gifts that underscore your commitment to sustainability.

25. Eco-Friendly Hair Scrunchies

Transform old fabric into stylish hair scrunchies, promoting an eco-friendly approach to hair accessories.

Instructions:

Cut fabric into strips about 22″ long and 4″ wide.
Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and sew along the edge, leaving a small opening.
Turn inside out, then thread an elastic band through the fabric.
Close the scrunchie by sewing the opening shut.

Benefits:
This project emphasizes recycling clothing while offering fun customizations for personal flair.

26. Upcycled Tin Can Planters

While not a wearable accessory, upcycled tin cans can serve as decorative planters, enhancing home decor.

Instructions:

Clean and remove labels from the cans.
Use a hammer and nail to create drainage holes at the bottom.
Paint or decorate the outside of the can.
Fill with potting soil and plant small succulents or herbs.

Benefits:
This project promotes upcycling by giving a new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded.

27. Fabric Buttons

Fabric-covered buttons can elevate your accessory game. This project requires sturdy fabric, buttons, and a button covering kit.

Instructions:

Cut fabric squares larger than the button.
Place fabric over the button’s base and use the kit to assemble.
Attach to clothing or use in mixed-media projects.

Benefits:
Using fabric scraps for buttons reduces waste while allowing you to customize your accessories uniquely and creatively.

28. Upcycled Pet Collar

Old fabric can be repurposed into stylish dog or cat collars, allowing for sustainable pet fashion.

Instructions:

Measure your pet’s neck and cut fabric to size.
Sew fabric around existing collar hardware or use a simple buckle.
Optionally decorate with patches or embroidery.

Benefits:
This project promotes sustainability while ensuring your furry friend stands out in style.

29. Personalized Leather Travel Tags

This project is perfect for travelers who have old leather scraps lying around. You can create customized travel tags that make your luggage unique.

Instructions:

Cut leather into rectangles, approximately 2.5″ x 4.5″.
Create a small opening at the top for a strap.
Use a leather stamping tool to add your name or decoration.
Attach a loop or strap for securing to bags.

Benefits:
These travel tags are durable and not only reduce waste but also personalize your travel experience.

30. Decorative Wooden Beads

Paint and decorate wooden beads to create keychains or use them in other DIY projects.

Instructions:

Gather unfinished wooden beads and paint them in various colors/designs.
Once dried, string them onto nylon cord or rope for a keychain or necklace.

Benefits:
This project promotes creativity and provides a way to add colorful accents to your accessories while using sustainable materials.

31. Miniature Canvas Art

Repurpose old canvas or wood into mini artworks that double as distinctive hair clips or brooches.

Instructions:

Cut small squares from the canvas.
Paint or decorate with non-toxic paints.
Attach to hair clips or pin backings using strong glue.

Benefits:
These mini artworks encourage creativity while celebrating sustainable practices through upcycling.

Each of these projects emphasizes creativity, sustainability, and fun. Not only will you enjoy crafting unique accessories, but you’ll also promote eco-friendly living patterns that benefit the environment. By utilizing materials that would typically end up in landfills, these DIY projects empower you to take control of your fashion choices, one handmade accessory at a time.

Making Sustainable Accessories: Fun DIY Projects