How to Use Paper Shreddings for Crafts Projects
Using the paper shreds you have in your paper shredder is not only environmentally sound, it is also wildly creative. These pieces of paper that used to be garbage can be used on a number of crafty projects, like cards, scrapbook layouts or home décor items.
Supplies:
- Paper Shreddings
- Spray paint
- Adhesive
- Pen
- Cardboard
- Ribbon or string
- Plastic ornaments
- Baskets
- Save the paper shreddings from your shredder, especially colorful pieces. You can also coat the white pieces with spray paint for a desired color. If you don’t have a shredder, you can use commercially available shredded paper, usually available in the gift wrapping section of most stores.
- Use the paper to create dimensional design along the edges of greeting cards or scrapbooking layouts. Place double-stick tape to the area where you want to put the shreds. Liquid glue is not recommended, as it can cause the paper to buckle. Make zig-zag patterns, straight lines or curvy swirls with the tape, then tear or crumple the shreddings and place them over the tape. Use a piece of ribbon or string to outline the design for added definition.
- Design simple pictures as gifts for teachers or grandparents. Have the child draw a simple design, such as snowman, onto a piece of cardboard cut to a desired size. Use different color shreddings on each section to create the design.
- Fill clear plastic Christmas ornaments with shredded paper of assorted colors. This is a festive look, especially if the colored paper is metallic.
- Use the paper shredding in Easter baskets instead of Easter grass. It can also be used as a display to nestle fragile eggs in decorative baskets.