How to Make Novelty Items From Scrap Papers

No need to use full sheets of paper when only a little is needed, especially if you have a stash of scrap paper handy.

Scrap paper accumulates from a variety of sources. From magazines to newspaper and leftover gift wrap, the amount of scrap paper that ends up in the trash can or recycling bin can be put to better use. Using scrap paper to make small novelty items can be a fun and easy way to reuse those little and big bits of paper. Creativity comes into play as making things with paper is almost limitless in possibilities.

Things You'll Need

• Shoe box or large storage container
• Plastic bags

Instructions

1. Gather all the scrap paper you have around your house. Get everyone who lives in your home on board with the idea that you will be saving scrap paper for crafts. Place shoe boxes beside all trash cans to gather scrap paper. Use the scrap paper collection box as the first novelty project. Decorate by gluing pieces of scrap paper over the entire shoe box in a random order or symmetrical design. Cover all collection boxes with scrap paper.

2. Separate your scrap paper by colors. For example, make one pile for all red paper and include all shades of red in that pile. Continue organizing the scrap paper until all have been assigned a color group. Separate all printed paper from the solid colors. Place each pile in a plastic bag and put all bags into a large storage container. Use scrap paper to decorate the outside of the container.

3. Determine what novelty items to make based on how much scrap paper you have collected. Think of upcoming holidays, birthdays or celebrations and pick scrap paper colors that match the celebration. When decorating for New Year's Eve, graduation or wedding, use scrap paper in lieu of confetti. Make confetti by ripping up some scrap paper that you have gathered. Keep the confetti in plastic boxes or bags for easy access.

4. Work on one novelty item at a time to make sure that you have enough scrap paper available to finish each project. Some items that are easy to make are picture frames, jewelry boxes, gift tags, place mats and greeting cards.

Tips & Warnings

• Use care and caution when allowing small children to assist with projects that may involve the use of scissors.

References

• Scholastic: Do-it-Yourself Patchwork Gifts
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: More Holiday Cheer, Less Holiday Waste
• Martha Stewart Weddings: Scrapbook Paper Ideas: How-Tos