As the school year comes to a close, are you dreading dealing with the mountain of your child’s artwork that inevitably builds up? The vibrant colours, imaginative designs, and heartfelt efforts that went into each piece make it a challenge to simply toss them into the recycling bin. Instead of saying goodbye to these treasures, or storing them somewhere never to be enjoyed again, why not give them new life and purpose?
Here we rank from easiest to hardest, ten creative ways to lovingly repurpose or upcycle your child’s artwork.
1. Community giving
If time just isn’t on your side, consider donating your child’s artwork. Through commonkind’s “Art with Heart” art-repurposing community projects, you can spread kindness to disadvantaged members of the community while ensuring that your child’s creativity continues to brighten someone’s day. Your donation of original artworks can contribute to the beauty of shared spaces, fostering a sense of community and creativity for those who may not have access to such experiences otherwise.
2. Customised Greeting Cards
Gather up a selection of your child’s most delightful creations and turn them into personalised greeting cards. Cut out smaller sections of the artwork, glue them onto card, and voila – you have a collection of unique and sentimental cards for birthdays, thank you notes, or just because. Grandparents, Aunties, and Uncles will especially appreciate the effort and personal touch.
3. DIY Wrapping Paper
Transform plain wrapping paper into a work of art by using your child’s paintings as a unique and colourful wrapping material. Use washi tape to join two or more smaller artworks to cover bigger presents. This not only adds a personal touch to your gifts but also, allows your child to actively participate in the gift-giving process. Friends and family will appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness that goes into each beautifully wrapped present.
4. Bespoke Art Gallery
Create a dynamic art gallery at home by repurposing children’s artwork with frames that are easily opened, allowing the little artists to continually update and showcase their latest masterpieces. This evolving display not only nurtures their creativity but also turns your space into a living canvas that reflects the ever-changing imagination of your young artists.
5. Colourful Placemats
Transform children’s art into charming placemats by laminating their colourful creations. These custom placemats not only make daily routines more enjoyable but also serve as cherished keepsakes celebrating your child’s creativity.
6. Personalised Puzzles
Turn your child’s artwork into a fun and engaging puzzle. Glue the artwork onto a piece of sturdy cardboard and then cut it into puzzle pieces. This interactive craft not only repurposes the artwork but also provides entertainment for friends and family.
7. Decoupage Keepsake Box
Turn a simple wooden box into a cherished keepsake by decoupaging it with snippets of your child’s artwork. Use a clear sealant to protect the artwork and ensure its longevity.
8. Upcycled Book Bags
Turn your child’s artwork into functional and stylish tote/library bags. Choose a few standout pieces, scan and print them onto fabric transfer sheets, and then iron them onto plain canvas tote bags to create unique, personalised accessories or special gifts that showcase your child’s artistic flair.
9. Photo book
Transform children’s art into a cherished keepsake by compiling a photo book. Scan or photograph their drawings, paintings, and crafts, then organise them into a personalised album, creating a lasting memento of their artistic growth over time. And once you’re done with the originals, consider donating them to commonkind’s “Art with Heart” program.
10. Homemade Storybooks
Craft personalised storybooks by binding together several pieces of artwork. Encourage your child to create additional drawings that tell a story, and then compile them into a small book. This not only repurposes their art but also allows them to express their creativity in narrative form.
So as your children bring home their creative masterpieces these holidays, instead of tossing or storing, try giving them a new life through repurposing.
What do you do with your children’s art? Any other great ideas you can share?
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We provide benevolent relief to people and communities suffering from poverty, disadvantage and distress by facilitating age-appropriate community service activities for children, families and other interested parties.
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