How to Repurpose Newspaper

Although you can simply recycle read newspaper you can also repurpose it into nifty crafts and handy accessories. You won’t need a lot of supplies, just gently used newsprint, a little glue and a vision.

Edit Steps

Method 1: Newspaper or Card Lampshade

Create several giant newspaper and cardstock circles. Use a giant hole punch to punch out large circles.
- Consider having an assortment of an even number of newspaper and cardstock circles on hand before you start to design.

Visualize the design of circles on the lampshade before adding glue. You could create a pattern where every other circle is newspaper followed by a cardstock circle or you could randomly add newspaper––get creative!

Glue the circles directly onto the lampshade using Mod Podge. Use enough glue without saturating the circles (too much and the Mod Podge could bleed through).

Allow the lampshade to dry completely before use.

Part 2: Homemade Envelopes

Make a template from an existing envelope. Gently separate the envelope so you have its full shape prior to gluing it into place.

Trace around the envelope onto the cardstock and newspaper. The cardstock and newspaper should match exactly.

Cut out the newspaper and cardstock according to the template you traced.

Glue the cardstock to the newspaper using the glue stick. Allow to dry before forming it into an envelope.

Fold flaps to create the envelope. Glue in place using the glue stick.

Give the envelope plenty of time to dry before use.

Method 3: Newspaper Wreath

Trace or draw leaves on your newspaper. You will be covering the wreath ring with newspaper leaves, so consider using a template that you either download from the Internet. Or, you could even locate a few fallen leaves outside and use them as your inspiration for the template.
- Add a pop of color on your wreath by cutting out colorful tissue paper leaves to weave intermittently through the wreath.

Lay newspaper leaves around the newspaper without glue. This dry run allows you to see if you like the design and to check you have enough leaves to cover the wreath.

Secure the leaves to the wreath ring using hot glue. Just a dab of glue on the leaf base will secure and hold the leaf in place.

Finished.

Method 4: A Newspaper Gift Bag

Cut out a 15.5” x 8.25” rectangle from the newspaper. Look for an area of interest in the paper, perhaps a colorful ad or important article for this project.

Hold the newspaper rectangle horizontally. Then, fold the top flap downward approximately 1.25”.
- Fold the bottom flap 2” from the bottom.

Section the newspaper off into four panels by folding. Measure 3” for the first panel, followed by 4.5” for the next. Repeat.
- Fold in 0.5” flap on each side of the rectangle. This will be used to glue the bag together.

Cut two pieces of cardstock 4.25” x 1”. Glue to the widest two panels of the newspaper.

Fold and glue the top flap downward, along the length of the bag. The cardstock will be covered. You can use either hot glue or a glue stick (hot glue will make the hold more permanent).

Fold the bottom of the bag as if you were wrapping a gift. Seal with hot glue.
- Stand the bag upward. Then press downward to further seal and secure the bag.

Cut a piece of cardstock or cardboard 4” x 2.5.” This will help the bag bottom stay in place.

Add a handle by punching holes through each side of the bag. String a cord or ribbon through the holes.

Stuff with your favorite color tissue paper to add a pop of color.

Finished.

Method 5: Nail Polish Art

Paint your nails with your favorite color. Avoid dark colors or black, as you want the newsprint to show up. A clear coat, neon or a light shade works best.

Allow your nails to dry completely.

Dip one nail in rubbing alcohol. You can pour a small amount in a saucer or bowl for an easy application.

Press a piece of newspaper against that nail. Carefully remove to reveal the design.

Repeat the process for each nail. Then cover with clear polish to seal and protect your nails.

Finished.

Method 6: Earth-friendly Party Hats

Roll a large sheet of newspaper into a cone. The sheet size can vary based on the recipient’s size and head width.

Glue or tape the cone in place. Run the tape or glue along the side of the hat to ensure the entire hat is held in place.

Add mini pom poms to the bottom of the hat with hot glue. Place a dab of glue on the pom pom and press against the hat. Allow the hat to dry completely before wearing it.