While the sweetest thing in a box of chocolates is the treats, of course, the pretty gift box can also be remade into a sweet organizer. Store rings, bracelets, charms and earrings in the box's individual compartments. Wrap up delicate charms and rings in colorful tissue paper. If you have several candy boxes, recycle them into gift boxes, too.

2/14/09

Show your love to someone by giving them a gift made with love. Ten Thousand Villages is a sustainable marketplace that sells heart-shaped cards, ornaments and candles perfect for Valentine's Day. Your purchase supports local artisans from all over the world who thrive and live off the proceeds from their handiwork. A great way to give back, isn't it? For store locations, visit www.tenthousandvillages.com.

2/13/09

Spell out "I Love you" by recycling paper shopping bags into luminaries. Use a stencil kit from the hardware store and, tracing the letters onto several bags, spell out whatever phrase your heart desires. Cut out the letters with an X-Acto knife and fill the bags with clean kitty litter, pebbles or rocks to weigh them down. Light them up with clean-burning soy candles or, a safer bet, rechargeable "candles" from Candela (vessel.com).

2/12/09