Out of junk mail

The never-ending battle against junk mail! Here are some creative ways to reuse and recycle junk mail:

  1. Crafting: Use junk mail to create unique crafts, such as:
    • Collage art: Cut out images and words to create a new piece of art.
    • Paper mache: Tear junk mail into strips and use it to create sculptures or decorative objects.
    • Card making: Use junk mail to create one-of-a-kind greeting cards.
  2. Paper Mache Pulp: Soak junk mail in water, blend it into a pulp, and use it to create:
    • Pulp paintings: Apply the pulp to a canvas or paper to create a textured, abstract art piece.
    • Pulp sculptures: Shape the pulp into three-dimensional objects, like bowls or vases.
  3. Compost: Shred junk mail and add it to your compost pile. The paper will break down and provide nutrients for your garden.
  4. Fire Starter: Shred junk mail and use it as a fire starter in your fireplace, campfire, or wood stove.
  5. Gift Wrapping: Use junk mail to create unique, eco-friendly gift wrapping paper.
  6. Book Covers: Use junk mail to create covers for your favorite books or journals.
  7. Decoupage: Cut out images and words from junk mail and decoupage them onto furniture, boxes, or other objects.
  8. Paper Beads: Roll junk mail into beads and use them to create jewelry or other decorative items.
  9. Seed Starters: Use junk mail as mini greenhouses for starting seeds. Simply fill the mailer with potting soil, plant your seeds, and place it in a sunny spot.
  10. Recycle: If all else fails, make sure to recycle your junk mail. Many communities have special programs for recycling paper and cardboard products.

Remember to always remove any plastic windows, stickers, or inserts before reusing or recycling junk mail. Happy crafting!