How to Recycle Art Projects

If your art projects are taking over your space, there are many ways that you can recycle each one so it doesn’t end up in the trash. Exploring a few simple options and breaking the project apart can give it new life, and it will keep the project out of a landfill.  

• Try to sell the art project first. This may be a piece that someone else loves, and instead of it going into a landfill, it can sit it someone’s home. Ask around to people you know, take pictures of it and list it on Craigslist or eBay.  You can also sell it and put the profits towards a local charity to increase sale potential.


• Call a local art school or center to see if they want the project to scrap for new supplies. Often pieces in art projects can be used again, and schools that aren't financially fit will appreciated the donation.


• Take the art project apart and divide it into categories if you can’t sell it. Paper, plastic, aluminum, glass or whatever else that is used in the project can be organized.


• Use any pieces that you can as home décor or for other uses around your home. Cans can be pencil holders and a canvas can make a great piece of wall art or a stand up piece of décor. Sculptures can be displayed in cases with other creations. Wood pieces can be burned as kindle, and glass can be melted and used on another project.


• If you have a recycling bin at home, put what you can from the project into those bins.


• Call your local recycling paper or go to their website on the Internet.  Write down their hours of operation and what different materials they take. Put your leftover items into reusable bags and go to the recycling center.


• Sort the art project pieces into the different bins at the center, and make sure you haven’t left anything behind.