What to Do with Old Toys: Upcycle Craft Ideas – Swoodson Says

As parents, guardians, or simply lovers of toys, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves with boxes upon boxes of old toys—sentimental keepsakes from childhood, gifts that never quite hit the mark, or simply items that are no longer played with. Instead of tossing these beloved playthings into the trash, why not consider upcycling them into something new and functional? Upcycling is not just an environmentally friendly practice; it’s also a creative way to breathe new life into items that hold nostalgic value. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore a variety of imaginative and practical upcycle craft ideas for transforming old toys into unique home decor, functional items, and more.

1. The Power of Upcycling

Before diving into specific craft ideas, it’s important to understand the concept of upcycling. Upcycling is the process of taking unwanted items and creatively reusing them to create something of better quality, value, or environmental benefit. By upcycling old toys, you not only reduce waste but also give these items a purpose, add a touch of creativity to your space, and even save money.

2. Safety First: Preparing for Crafting

Before you start your upcycling journey, it’s important to consider safety. Make sure the toys you choose are free from sharp edges and small parts that could be hazardous, especially if young children are around. It’s wise to clean the toys thoroughly to remove any dust or lingering dirt. Ensure that any paints or adhesives used in the crafting process are non-toxic and safe for indoor use.

3. Upcycle Craft Ideas for Old Toys

Here are several fun and creative ideas for upcycling old toys that will add value and style to your home or provide your children with engaging and imaginative items.

a. Toy Shadow Boxes

Transform old toys into stunning shadow boxes. Start by gathering small figurines or toy cars and arranging them in a shadow box frame. You can paint the inside of the box to create a colorful backdrop. This is a great way to display your children’s favorite toys or to create a thematic art piece that reflects your family’s interests.

b. Toy Planters

If you have a collection of larger toys, like action figures or toy animals, consider turning them into quirky planters. Cut a shallow hole in the top of the toy to create a planting space, fill it with potting soil, and add small succulent plants or seeds. This is an excellent way to bring some greenery into your home, and the playful planters are sure to spark conversation.

c. Wall Art with Toy Parts

Instead of tossing old broken toys, consider using their parts to create stunning wall art. You can arrange toy wheels, pieces of dolls, or other colorful toy bits on a canvas or wood board to form a creative design. Allow your artistic side to shine as you glue the pieces down, and then frame your artwork for a fun addition to your child’s playroom.

d. Upcycled Toy Jewelry

Transform old plastic toys into unique jewelry pieces. Smaller toys, such as tiny figurines or pieces of toy cars, can be turned into pendants or earrings. Simply drill a small hole at the top of each piece, attach jump rings, and string them onto chains or hooks. This can be a fun project for older kids, encouraging creativity through personal fashion.

e. Toy Bookends

Turn old board games or larger action figures into bookends. For instance, using two old toy dinosaurs can create a whimsical yet functional bookend set. Simply attach weights to the bottom and secure them to a sturdy base. Your books will stand tall, and your home will have a fun touch.

f. Teddy Bear into Throw Pillow

Instead of letting old stuffed animals gather dust, you can transform them into decorative throw pillows. With some basic sewing skills, seam up the sides of a stuffed toy and add stuffing or a pillow insert, shaping it into a more comfortable form. This retains the sentimentality while giving it a brand-new purpose.

g. Miniature Toy Garlands

String together the smaller toys to create colorful garlands that can be hung for decorations. For instance, use toy blocks, miniature figurines, or character toys to create playful, themed garlands. They can be used during holidays, birthdays, or simply as fun decor in a child’s room.

h. Action Figure Hooks

Old action figures can be repurposed into wall hooks. Cut off the legs or arms of the figures and securely attach them to a wooden board. Add hooks for a practical use, perfect for hanging bags, hats, or coats. It’s a fun decoration for a child’s room or play area.

i. Puzzle Piece Mason Jar Lids

If you have old puzzles missing pieces, use the remaining pieces for creative mason jar lids or decorative embellishments. Glue puzzle pieces around the lid of a mason jar for a fun and colorful look that can store items like cotton balls, buttons, or small craft supplies.

j. Toy Jenga Tower

If you have a collection of identical small toys or blocks, create your own version of Jenga! Stack them and play with family and friends. It’s a great way to bond and have fun while also making use of items that would otherwise contribute to clutter.

4. Combining Toys with Other Materials

When upcycling old toys, you can also combine them with other materials you already have at home. Here are a few brilliant combinations:

a. Wooden Toy Frame

Do you have old wooden toys? Glue them onto a picture frame to create a playful, nostalgic frame. Find an old photo of your children playing with the toys and showcase it, linking the past and present.

b. Shelf Displays

Repurpose old toys as standees on shelves. Whether it’s vintage dolls or action figures, you can create a playful display that tells a story. Arrange them in creative and thoughtful ways, perhaps among your books or other collectibles to create themed aesthetics.

c. Toys in Glass Domes

If you have an affinity for domed displays, gather some of your favorite tiny toys and create a curated collection inside glass domes. This can create charming, personalized decor that adds a nod to your childhood in a chic way.

5. Education Through Creativity: Teaching Kids to Upcycle

Upcycling isn’t just an adult pastime; engaging kids in the creative process can be incredibly fulfilling. It teaches them valuable lessons about resourcefulness and the environment. Here are some ways to involve children in the upcycling process:

a. Craft Time Together

Set aside dedicated craft time where children can select the toys they want to upcycle. Guide them through the process, helping to spark their imaginations while allowing them to showcase their skills and creativity.

b. Artistic Expression

Encouraging children to express themselves through upcycling fosters creativity. Allow them to paint or decorate the toys before repurposing them, making each project uniquely personal.

c. Lesson on Sustainability

Talk to children about the importance of sustainability and how upcycling plays a role in protecting the environment. This can make the process more meaningful to them and help them develop eco-friendly habits in life.

6. Building Community with Upcycled Toys

Consider hosting a local toy swap or community crafting event with friends or neighbors. This not only helps you declutter but also fosters community spirit and encourages shared creativity. It’s an excellent opportunity for children to engage with others, learn sharing skills, and take part in the crafting process together.

7. The Journey of a Toy: From Unwanted to Cherished

Upcycling is not just about creating new products from discarded items; it’s about telling a story. Each toy has its history and memories; by transforming them, you honor their past while creating new beginnings. It’s a great conversation starter, a teaching moment, and a fun craft activity that the whole family can enjoy.

8. It’s Never Too Late to Start Upcycling

If you’ve never considered upcycling before, there’s no time like the present to start! Evaluate the toys you might have stashed away in the attic or basement, and think creatively about their potential. You’ll be surprised by what you can make with a little imagination and effort.

Conclusion

Repurposing old toys through upcycling not only saves the planet from unnecessary waste but also allows for wonderful bonding experiences with children and a chance to unleash your creativity. With these unique upcycling craft ideas in mind, you can transform forgotten toys into cherished items around your home. Remember, the only limit is your imagination!

Happy crafting!