Introduction
Let’s be honest, fellow DIY enthusiasts, we’ve all been there. That stack of beautiful, but now outdated, calendars piling up in a drawer, too pretty to toss, but no longer serving their primary purpose. Instead of letting them gather dust or, worse, end up in the recycling bin, why not repurpose old calendars into something new and exciting?
It’s a fantastic way to unleash your creativity, save a bit of money, and give those gorgeous images a second life. This guide is packed with innovative ideas for what to do with old calendars, transforming them from forgotten paper into crafty treasures. We’ll explore several “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars” that are both fun and functional.
The beauty of deciding to repurpose old calendars lies in the versatility of the material. The paper is often high-quality, and the images can range from stunning landscapes to charming illustrations, perfect for a variety of projects. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just looking for a simple weekend activity, these upcycling tips will inspire you. We’re not just talking about cutting out pretty pictures; we’re diving into projects that will add a personal touch to your home or make thoughtful, handmade gifts. So, grab that stack of old planners and let’s get started on this journey to repurpose old calendars!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
*Caption: Unlock your creativity and give old calendars a new lease on life with these inspiring upcycling projects.*
What You’ll Need for Repurpose Old Calendars
Before we dive into the specific projects, let’s gather our crafting arsenal. Having the right tools and materials on hand will make the process of to repurpose old calendars smoother and more enjoyable. Most of these items are likely already lurking in your craft stash!
*Caption: Gather these essential tools and materials to start your calendar upcycling adventure!*
Here’s a general list of what you might need, depending on the projects you choose:
- Old Calendars: The star of the show! Gather a variety if you can – different sizes, themes, and paper qualities will offer more creative options.
- Scissors: A good, sharp pair is essential for clean cuts.
- Craft Knife (X-Acto knife): For more precise cuts, especially for intricate designs.
- Cutting Mat: Protect your work surface when using a craft knife.
- Ruler or Straight Edge: For measuring and making straight cuts or scores.
- Glue: Various types might be useful.
- Glue stick: Good for paper-on-paper applications.
- White craft glue (PVA glue): Stronger adhesion, dries clear.
- Mod Podge or Decoupage Medium: For sealing and adding a protective finish, especially for items that might see some wear.
- Pencil: For marking cutting lines.
- Eraser: To remove any stray pencil marks.
- Hole Punch: Useful for making gift tags or ornaments.
- Ribbon, Twine, or String: For embellishments, hanging loops, or binding.
- Cardstock or Sturdy Paper: For backing, creating frames, or making envelopes.
- Optional Decorative Elements: Glitter, stickers, washi tape, stamps, markers, paint – let your imagination run wild!
- Laminator (Optional): If you want to create durable items like bookmarks or placemats.
- Bone Folder (Optional): For crisp folds when making envelopes or boxes.
Remember, this is a general list. Each project below will highlight any specific materials needed if they aren’t covered here. The key is to be resourceful and see what you already have before rushing out to buy new supplies. That’s the spirit of upcycling, after all!
Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Calendars
Now for the fun part! Let’s explore seven creative projects that will transform those outdated calendars into delightful new items. Each of these “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars” is designed to be approachable and rewarding.
Project 1: DIY Gift Tags and Envelopes Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Never be caught without a gift tag again! Calendar images make for beautiful, unique tags and custom-sized envelopes that add a personal touch to any present. This is one of the simplest ways to repurpose old calendars.
Materials specific to this project:
- Hole punch
- Ribbon or twine
- Envelope template (optional, easily found online or make your own)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Select Your Images and Prepare for Cutting
Choose sections of your calendar images that would look good as a small tag or a folded envelope. Look for interesting patterns, vibrant colors, or charming illustrations. For tags, you might want smaller, focused details. For envelopes, larger scenic views or patterned backgrounds work well.
Caption: Step 1 in repurposing old calendars: Thoughtfully selecting the most visually appealing sections for your new creation.
Carefully cut out your chosen sections using scissors or a craft knife and ruler for straight edges. If making envelopes, you can trace an existing envelope or use a printable template directly onto the back of the calendar page. Make sure the prettiest side of the image will be the outside of your envelope.
This initial selection process is crucial because the images you pick will define the character of your final product. Don’t rush this part; enjoy revisiting the artwork from your past calendars!
Step 2: Crafting Your Gift Tags
Once you have your selected image pieces, cut them into desired tag shapes. Rectangles, squares, or traditional luggage tag shapes work well. You can use a pre-made tag as a template or freehand it.
Next, punch a hole at one end of each tag. Thread a piece of ribbon or twine through the hole and tie a knot or a small bow. You can leave the back blank for writing a message, or glue a piece of plain cardstock to the back for a more finished look and easier writing surface. This is a fantastic way to use up even small scraps of beautiful calendar art.
Consider embellishing your tags further with a touch of glitter along the edges or a small stamped sentiment. These little details elevate your handmade tags.
Step 3: Assembling Your Custom Envelopes
If you’re making envelopes, once your template is traced onto the calendar page, carefully cut it out. Score along the fold lines using a ruler and a bone folder (or the dull edge of a butter knife) for clean, crisp folds.
Fold the side flaps in first, then fold up the bottom flap. Apply a thin line of glue along the edges of the bottom flap where it will meet the side flaps. Press firmly and allow the glue to dry completely. Voilà ! You have a custom envelope.
You can make envelopes in various sizes to fit different cards or notes. This is particularly handy for oddly shaped handmade cards. Imagine the delight of receiving a gift or card with such a unique, personally crafted envelope! It shows extra thought and care.
Project 2: Unique Bookmarks Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Avid readers can never have too many bookmarks! Calendar images, especially long panoramic scenes or interesting vertical compositions, make for sturdy and attractive bookmarks. This is a very practical idea for “How to repurpose old calendars.”
Materials specific to this project:
- Cardstock (optional, for backing)
- Laminator (optional, for durability)
- Ribbon or tassel (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Choose and Cut Your Calendar Strips
Look for sections of your calendar that are about 2 inches wide and 6-7 inches long – standard bookmark size. However, feel free to customize the size to your preference. Images with vertical orientation, interesting textures, or small, detailed scenes work particularly well.
Caption: Reimagining old calendars as bookmarks starts with carefully selecting and cutting image strips.
Use your ruler and craft knife or scissors to cut out your selected strips. Aim for clean, straight edges. If the calendar paper feels a bit flimsy, you can glue it onto a piece of cardstock for added rigidity. This also gives you a plain back for personalization if you wish.
Consider the theme of the calendar. A nature calendar can yield beautiful landscape bookmarks, while an art calendar might provide abstract designs perfect for a modern reader.
Step 2: Enhance and Protect Your Bookmarks
Once cut, you can round the corners with scissors for a softer look or leave them sharp. If you backed your bookmark with cardstock, ensure the glue is completely dry and the edges are flush.
For added durability, consider laminating your bookmarks. This protects them from wear and tear, spills, and makes them last much longer. If you don’t have a laminator, you can use clear packing tape carefully applied to both sides, or a coat of Mod Podge. If using Mod Podge, apply thin, even coats and allow to dry thoroughly between coats.
Step 3: Add Finishing Touches
To make your bookmarks extra special, punch a hole at the top center and add a ribbon or a handmade tassel. This not only adds a decorative element but also makes it easier to find your page.
You could also write a favorite quote on the back (if you used cardstock backing) or add small embellishments like a tiny charm or bead to the ribbon. These personalized bookmarks make great small gifts for book-loving friends and family. This is an excellent example of giving old items a new purpose through thoughtful “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars”.
Project 3: Decorative Coasters Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Protect your furniture in style with custom coasters made from your favorite calendar images. This project requires a bit more in terms of sealing, but the results are both beautiful and functional.
Materials specific to this project:
- Ceramic tiles (4×4 inches are ideal) or thick cork squares
- Mod Podge or a waterproof sealant
- Felt or cork (for the bottom of the tiles, to prevent scratching furniture)
- Sponge brush
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Images and Tiles
Select images from your calendars that will look good when cropped to a square (or the shape of your chosen coaster base). Nature scenes, abstract patterns, or close-ups of flowers or animals often work well. Cut the images to the exact size of your tiles.
Caption: Preparing to repurpose old calendars into beautiful coasters by cutting images to tile size.
Clean your tiles thoroughly and make sure they are completely dry before you begin. If using cork, ensure the surface is smooth. This preparation is key for good adhesion and a neat finish.
Think about creating a set of coasters – they could all be from the same calendar for a cohesive look, or a curated collection of different but complementary images.
Step 2: Adhere and Seal the Images
Apply a thin, even coat of Mod Podge to the back of your calendar image and another thin coat to the surface of the tile. Carefully place the image onto the tile, smoothing it out from the center to the edges to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles. Let it dry completely (usually about 15-20 minutes).
Once dry, apply several thin coats of Mod Podge (or your chosen sealant) over the top of the image and the sides of the tile, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. At least 3-4 coats are recommended for good water resistance. The final coats should be a waterproof sealant if available, to protect against spills.
Patience is key here; rushing the drying time between coats can lead to a tacky or uneven finish.
Step 3: Finish the Coasters
After the final coat of sealant is completely cured (this might take 24 hours or more, check your sealant’s instructions), cut small pieces of felt or thin cork sheet and glue them to the bottom of each coaster. This prevents the coasters from scratching your furniture.
Your custom coasters are now ready to use or gift! These make fantastic housewarming presents or unique additions to your own coffee table. It’s a practical and stylish way to repurpose old calendars.
Project 4: Upcycled Wall Art or Mini Gallery Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Many calendars feature stunning photography or artwork that deserves to be displayed beyond its designated month. This is a simple yet effective way to repurpose old calendars into home decor.
Materials specific to this project:
- Picture frames (various sizes, can be thrifted)
- Mat board (optional, for a professional look)
- Double-sided tape or glue
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Select and Prepare Your Calendar Art
Go through your old calendars and pick out your absolute favorite full-page images. Consider the style of your home decor and choose images that will complement it. Landscapes, abstract art, botanical prints, or even striking typographic designs from calendars can all work beautifully.
Caption: Selecting the best images from past calendars for an upcycled wall art project.
Carefully detach the pages. If they are spiral-bound, you might need to trim the perforated edge for a clean look. Measure the images and your frames to ensure a good fit.
You might decide on a theme for your gallery wall – perhaps all black and white images, or all nature scenes. This can create a very cohesive and intentional look.
Step 2: Framing Your Chosen Images
If you’re using mat board, cut it to fit your frame, with an opening that is slightly smaller than your calendar image, creating a nice border. This elevates the look significantly.
Place your calendar image behind the mat (if using) and then into the frame. Secure the backing of the frame. If your image is slightly smaller than the frame opening and you’re not using a mat, you can mount it onto a piece of cardstock that fits the frame, centering the image. Use double-sided tape or a thin layer of glue for this.
Experiment with different frame styles and colors. A collection of mismatched, thrifted frames can create a charming eclectic gallery.
Step 3: Arrange and Display Your Art
Plan the layout of your mini gallery wall before you start hammering nails. You can do this by tracing your frames onto paper, cutting them out, and taping them to the wall to visualize the arrangement.
Once you’re happy with the layout, hang your framed calendar art. This is an incredibly budget-friendly way to add personality and color to any room. Friends will be amazed when you tell them your stylish art pieces are from old calendars! This showcases how effectively you can repurpose old calendars into something truly eye-catching. For more upcycling inspiration beyond calendars, Good Housekeeping offers some “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars”.
Project 5: Decorative Paper Beads Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Transform colorful calendar pages into beautiful, lightweight beads for jewelry making or other craft embellishments. This is a wonderfully intricate-looking but surprisingly easy way to repurpose old calendars.
Materials specific to this project:
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Craft knife or scissors
- Toothpick, skewer, or thin knitting needle (for rolling)
- Glue (liquid white glue works well)
- Varnish or clear nail polish (for sealing)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Cut Your Paper Strips
Select colorful sections of your calendar pages. The colors and patterns on the paper will determine the look of your beads. Cut the paper into long, thin triangles. The width of the base of the triangle will determine the length of your bead, and the length of the triangle will determine its thickness. For example, a common size is a 1-inch base and an 8-10 inch length.
Caption: Precision cutting is key when preparing to repurpose old calendars into unique paper beads.
Experiment with different triangle dimensions to create beads of various shapes and sizes. The more varied your strips, the more interesting your bead collection will be.
Using a craft knife and ruler will give you the straightest, cleanest edges, which helps in rolling neat beads.
Step 2: Roll Your Beads
Take a paper triangle and, starting from the wide base, begin rolling it tightly around your toothpick, skewer, or knitting needle. Try to keep the roll centered and even as you go.
When you get to about an inch from the pointy tip, apply a small dab of glue to the inside of the tip and continue rolling. Press the end down firmly to secure it. Slide the bead off the rolling tool.
The tighter you roll, the more solid your bead will be. It takes a little practice to get consistent results, but it’s a very satisfying process.
Step 3: Seal and Use Your Beads
Once you’ve made a batch of beads and the glue is dry, you can seal them to make them more durable and water-resistant. You can dip them in varnish, paint them with clear nail polish, or brush on a few coats of Mod Podge. String them onto a piece of wire or another toothpick to dry, ensuring they don’t stick to your work surface.
Once dry, your beautiful paper beads are ready to be strung into necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or used to embellish other craft projects. Each bead will be unique, showcasing tiny fragments of the original calendar art. This is a fantastic example of “Creative calendar repurposing ideas.”
Project 6: Calendar Page Drawer Liners or Gift Wrap Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Add a surprising pop of color and pattern to your drawers, or create stunning, eco-friendly gift wrap. This is perhaps the simplest way to repurpose old calendars, requiring minimal effort for a lovely result.
Materials specific to this project:
- Measuring tape
- Double-sided tape (optional, for drawer liners)
- Ribbon and tags (for gift wrap)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Calendar Pages for Liners
Select large, attractive calendar pages. Measure the inside dimensions of your drawers. Carefully trim the calendar pages to fit. You might need to use multiple pages for larger drawers, in which case, try to match patterns or colors for a cohesive look.
Caption: Transforming old calendar pages into charming drawer liners starts with accurate measurements.
If the calendar pages are a bit too small, you can mount them onto a larger sheet of plain paper to extend them, or simply use them to line a portion of the drawer. The glossy finish on many calendar pages makes them somewhat wipeable, which is a bonus for liners.
Consider scenting your drawer liners by lightly spraying them with a fabric-safe fragrance or tucking a sachet underneath.
Step 2: Install Drawer Liners or Prepare for Gift Wrapping
For drawer liners, simply lay the cut pages into the bottom of your drawers. If you want them to stay put, you can use a few small pieces of double-sided tape in the corners. Enjoy the cheerful surprise every time you open a drawer!
For gift wrap, choose pages large enough to wrap your gift. If a single page isn’t big enough, you can carefully tape two pages together from the inside, matching patterns if possible. The high quality paper of most calendars makes for luxurious-feeling gift wrap.
This is a great way to use up those beautiful full-bleed images that are too pretty to cut up.
Step 3: Enhance Your Gift Presentation
Wrap your gift as you normally would, taking care to make neat folds and creases. Because calendar paper can be thicker than regular gift wrap, you might need to use stronger tape.
Finish off your beautifully wrapped gift with a contrasting ribbon and one of your handmade calendar gift tags (from Project 1!). This sustainable wrapping solution is not only environmentally friendly but also adds a unique, thoughtful touch that store-bought wrap can’t match. It’s a perfect answer for “How to repurpose old calendars” during gifting seasons.
Project 7: Mini Notebooks or Jotters Repurpose Old Calendars
Why this is great: Create handy little notebooks for grocery lists, quick notes, or as party favors. The sturdy covers made from calendar images are both attractive and durable.
Materials specific to this project:
- Plain paper for the inside pages
- Stapler (long-arm stapler is helpful but not essential) or needle and strong thread for binding
- Bone folder (optional, for scoring)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Prepare Your Covers and Pages
Choose vibrant sections of your calendar for the notebook covers. Cut these to your desired notebook size, remembering this will be the cover when folded in half (e.g., for a 4×6 inch notebook, cut your cover piece to 8×6 inches). Score the cover down the middle for a neat fold.
Caption: Crafting mini notebooks from old calendars begins with preparing the covers and inner pages.
Cut your plain inner pages slightly smaller than the cover when folded (e.g., for an 8×6 inch cover, cut inner pages to 7.75×5.75 inches). Stack about 5-10 sheets of paper for each notebook. Fold this stack in half.
The number of inner pages will depend on the thickness of your paper and the capability of your stapler or your patience for sewing.
Step 2: Assemble Your Notebooks
Nest the folded inner pages inside the folded calendar cover. Align the center folds carefully.
If using a stapler, open up the notebook flat and staple along the center fold from the outside in. Two or three staples are usually sufficient. A long-arm stapler makes this easier, but for small notebooks, you can often maneuver a regular stapler. Alternatively, you can use a needle and strong thread to sew a simple pamphlet stitch along the spine.
Ensure your staples or stitches are secure enough to hold the pages and cover together.
Step 3: Trim and Finish Your Notebooks
Once bound, you may find that the edges of the inner pages are a little uneven. Using a sharp craft knife and a ruler, carefully trim the three open edges of the notebook for a clean, professional finish. Be cautious during this step, always cutting away from yourself on a cutting mat.
These mini notebooks are perfect for tucking into a purse or pocket. They make great stocking stuffers, party favors, or thoughtful additions to a gift basket. It’s a very practical and charming way to repurpose old calendars, using both the images and the sturdy paper quality. For more ingenious upcycling projects which could inspire further “Creative calendar repurposing ideas,” check out tips from sources like “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars”.
Final Result: Your Upcycled Calendar Creations! Repurpose Old Calendars
And there you have it! Seven creative, fun, and eco-friendly ways to repurpose old calendars and breathe new life into those beautiful images. From practical items like coasters and bookmarks to decorative pieces like wall art and charming gift embellishments, the possibilities are truly inspiring.
*Caption: The beautiful and practical results of your efforts to repurpose old calendars – a testament to creativity and sustainability!*
Imagine your home adorned with unique pieces you’ve crafted yourself, or the delight of giving a handmade gift wrapped in custom paper with a matching tag, all originating from a simple old calendar. Not only have you created something beautiful and useful, but you’ve also made an environmentally conscious choice by upcycling materials that might have otherwise gone to waste.
We hope these ideas have sparked your imagination! The journey to repurpose old calendars is all about experimentation and personal expression. Don’t be afraid to adapt these projects, mix and match techniques, or come up with your own unique twists.
We’d love to see what you create! Share your finished projects, tips, or even your own creative calendar repurposing ideas in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to keep crafting and upcycling!
Pro Tips / FAQs to Repurpose Old Calendars
To help you get the best results and answer some common questions about how to repurpose old calendars, here are a few pro tips and FAQs:
Q1: What’s the best way to deal with glossy calendar pages that are hard to write on?
A: Glossy pages can indeed be tricky for some pens. For projects like gift tags or notebook covers where you might want to write, consider these options:
- Use permanent markers (like Sharpies), as they tend to write well on glossy surfaces.
- Lightly sand the glossy area with very fine-grit sandpaper to create a bit of tooth for pens to grip. Test on a scrap piece first.
- Glue a matte paper label or a piece of cardstock onto the area where you intend to write. This is especially good for the back of gift tags.
- For labeling items like DIY spice jars (not covered here but another idea!), print labels on matte sticker paper and apply them over the calendar image.
This is a common query when looking into “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars”.
Q2: How can I make my upcycled calendar items more durable?
A: Durability is key, especially for items that will get handled often.
- Lamination: As mentioned for bookmarks, laminating items like coasters (before attaching to tiles), placemats, or even sturdy tags can significantly increase their lifespan and make them water-resistant.
- Sealants: Mod Podge (especially the dishwasher-safe or outdoor varieties for relevant projects), clear acrylic spray sealant, or varnish will protect the paper from moisture and wear. Apply multiple thin coats for best results.
- Backing: Reinforce thinner calendar paper by gluing it to cardstock, cardboard (from cereal boxes, for example), or even thin craft wood for projects like wall art or sturdier tags.
Q3: Are there any types of calendars that work best for these DIY projects?
A: While almost any calendar can be repurposed, some features make them particularly good for crafting:
- Paper Quality: Thicker, high-quality paper (often found in art or photography calendars) is more durable and easier to work with. Thinner, newsprint-style paper might tear easily but can still be used if backed with sturdier material.
- Image Variety: Calendars with a good mix of large scenic views, detailed close-ups, patterns, and smaller vignettes offer more versatility for different projects.
- Binding: Spiral-bound calendars are easy to take apart. Stapled or glued ones might require more careful page removal to avoid tearing.
- Finish: Matte finish pages are easier to glue and write on directly. Glossy pages offer a vibrant look but might need special pens or sealants.
Ultimately, the “best” calendar depends on the specific “Creative calendar repurposing ideas” you have in mind.
Q4: What if I’m not very artistic? Can I still successfully **repurpose old calendars**?
A: Absolutely! Many of these projects rely more on careful cutting and gluing than on artistic talent. The beauty of using calendars is that the “art” is already provided by the images themselves!
- Start with simpler projects like gift tags, bookmarks, or drawer liners.
- Focus on selecting images you love – if you like the picture, you’re more likely to be happy with the outcome.
- Use tools like rulers and craft knives for straight, clean cuts, which instantly makes projects look more polished. Templates are also your friend!
- Remember, handmade doesn’t mean perfect. The little imperfections are part of the charm. The goal is to have fun and create something unique.
Q5: Where can I find more “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars”?
A: The internet is a treasure trove!
- Pinterest: Search for “repurpose old calendars,” “calendar crafts,” or “upcycled paper projects” for a visual feast of ideas.
- Craft Blogs: Many DIY and craft bloggers share unique upcycling projects. We often feature such ideas, so be sure to explore more of our repurpose old calendars tutorials.
- YouTube: Visual learners will find countless video tutorials demonstrating various techniques.
- Reputable Home & Craft Websites: Sites like Good Housekeeping often feature “Upcycle calendar crafts, Creative calendar repurposing ideas, How to repurpose old calendars” and other upcycling inspirations.
Don’t be afraid to adapt ideas you see for other paper crafts to work with your calendar pages! The key is to see the potential in the materials you have.
We hope this comprehensive guide has given you plenty of inspiration and practical steps to repurpose old calendars into amazing new creations. It’s a rewarding way to reduce waste, express your creativity, and add a personal touch to your home and gifts.
What are you waiting for? Grab those old calendars and start crafting!
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Happy Upcycling!
