Paper rolls
When expert crafters see paper towel or toilet paper rolls, they see endless crafting possibilities. But you don’t need to have an artistic vision to reuse cardboard tubes. Slip them over wrapped cables and extension cords to keep them from tangling. Cut and re-tape tubes over the bottom of hangers to keep pants from creasing. Stuff them with the many plastic bags laying around the house. The options are endless.
Pickle jars
Give these a quick wash and you’ll have a reusable glass storage container. Beth Nydick, founder of Blue Barn Kitchen, uses them to “store leftovers, homemade sauces, freezing soups and dried teas.” They can even be used as a small planter.
Coffee mugs
Lisa Torelli-Sauer, editor at Sensible Digs, upcycles old mugs into small flowerpots. She says, “Old coffee mugs can be painted to perfectly match your home’s decor. Repaint multiple mugs in coordinating colours or paint them in a matching theme. Coffee mugs are an especially good size for small succulents or herbs grown inside.”