Finding Uses for Craft Remnants
By Kayla • April 3, 2018
Due to budget restrictions and the need to 'stretch' classroom supplies for longer periods of time, many teachers have begun looking for ways to refurbish old art supplies. While it may take some leg work, there are plenty of books and online resources that teach you to do just that! Here are two great ideas to get you started! Handmade Paper
When taking periodic inventories of the supply closet, many teachers find 'unusable' scraps of everything, especially paper. Have your students separate the scraps into analogous colors (i.e. colors that will blend well together and not create a gray or brown) and tear them into small pieces. Next, place the scraps into a blender, fill with enough water to cover the pieces, and blend into a fine pulp. This should then be strained using a mesh strainer and pressed out flat to dry. When it's fully dry, you'll have interesting textured (recycled) paper for crafts and projects!
Recycled Crayons
Along with paper scraps, it is highly likely that your art cabinet has many crayon remnants that have been pushed aside for new materials. Take an evening to collect each little piece then set about creating new drawing materials. For jumbo Crayola crayons, place five to ten de-papered pieces in a non-stick muffin pan and melt in your oven at a temperature of 250 degrees. For less work, and a project your students can help with, purchase a Crayola Crayon Maker to take care of all your crayon remnants.
About the Author
Kayla Johnson
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