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When you spot a pile of plastic bags, you’re not just looking at trash—you’ve got easy, free supplies for projects that can actually save money and cut down on waste. Let’s dig into some simple, creative ways to turn those bags into bright décor, practical things, and playful crafts you can whip up at home.
Whether you’re after a quick gift, kid-friendly activity, or a weekend project, you’ll find plenty of options here—woven baskets, wind chimes, play mats, sensory toys, and more. I try to keep the instructions straightforward so you can start with stuff you already have at home.
1. Plastic Bag Gift Bows using Hot Glue
I grab old plastic bags, scissors, and a hot glue gun to make gift bows.
I fold and snip loops, then tack them together with glue dots for a tidy, lasting shape.
2. Woven Plastic Bag Baskets
I cut plastic bags into strips and weave them into little baskets, perfect for keys or snacks.
Braiding and sewing keeps them sturdy, and I like to use the brightest bags for a splash of color.
It’s a cheap, eco-friendly way to practice weaving.
3. Plastic Bag Chandelier Art
I turn plastic bags into a lightweight chandelier with just a hoop, string, and layers of bag strips.
The finished piece catches the light and adds texture without costing much.
You just need a few tools and a bit of patience to keep the layers neat.
4. Colorful Plastic Bag Wind Chimes
I snip plastic bags into strips and tie on beads, then hang them from a hoop or driftwood.
They flutter in the breeze, adding color and a gentle sound to the porch or garden.
5. Plastic Bag Butterflies for Decoration
I layer and cut colorful bags for wings, then twist another strip for the body.
After that, I attach the butterflies to walls, frames, or garlands for a fun, lightweight display that puts waste to good use.
6. DIY Plastic Bag Play Mats
I weave strips of plastic bags into play mats that kids can sprawl out on.
They dry fast and shrug off stains, so I use them inside or even for picnics.
If you trim the edges and sew a border, they hold up even longer.
7. Plastic Rain Sticks from Shredded Bags
I shred plastic bags and stuff them into a cardboard tube to make a rain stick.
A handful of beads or rice slows the pieces down, making a soft rain sound.
I seal the ends with tape or cork and test until I like the sound.
8. Plastic Bag Collage Art
I cut and layer colored plastic scraps to create texture and shape.
I glue them onto cardboard, which makes the collage sturdy and water-resistant.
Mixing opaque and see-through pieces lets the light play across the surface.
9. Upcycled Plastic Bag Sensory Balls
I slice up plastic bags and stuff the strips into balloons to make squeezable sensory balls.
My kids like the crinkly feel and gentle bounce, and I just add or remove strips to change the firmness.
10. Woven Plastic Bag Rugs
I turn plastic bags into plarn, then braid or crochet them into sturdy rugs.
These use up a lot of bags and make tough, washable mats for entryways or patios.
I usually try out a small swatch before diving into a full rug.
11. Plastic Bag Kites
I grab old plastic bags, sticks, string, and tape to make simple kites.
They fly surprisingly well on a breezy day and teach some basic building skills.
It’s a fun way for my kids and me to get outside without spending much.
12. Foot Painting with Crinkled Plastic Bags
I press a crinkled plastic bag into paint and then stamp it with my foot to make textured prints.
The bag leaves unpredictable lines and soft patterns that brushes just can’t do.
It keeps things playful and cheap for both kids and grownups.
13. Plastic Bag Woven Placemats
I weave strips of plastic bags into placemats that shrug off spills and dry fast.
It’s mostly simple knots and a basic over-under weave, so beginners can finish one in an afternoon.
14. Decorative Plastic Bag Flowers
I turn old plastic bags into bright, long-lasting flowers for vases and wreaths.
I cut, layer, and shape petals, then use wire or hot glue to hold them together.
It’s a simple way to save bags from the trash and add a splash of colorful decor to my home.
15. Plastic Bag Crinkly Books for Kids
I like making simple crinkly books by layering plastic bags between cardstock pages and sealing up the edges.
Kids seem to love the sound and the texture, so I usually add some bright pictures with waterproof markers just to keep things interesting.
It’s a low-cost, recycled way to bring touch, sound, and a bit of early reading together—definitely worth trying if you’ve got extra bags lying around.
