12/11/12

If the thought of making a traditional gingerbread house from scratch seems mind-boggling, look in your office trash bins and make an upcycled one. Use one cardboard box as the base and another box to make the roof. Cut out windows and doors with scissors or box cutters. Then decorate away with whatever office supplies you have handy: post-it notes to shingle the roof and other office supply stickers for the front. The best part? It's reusable, and kids can help decorate, too.

12/10/12

This is one of my favorite upcycling holiday projects because it's easy and the end result is gorgeous. Here's my take on creating a menorah from recycled materials: Antique glass bottles are a common item to find stashed away in the attic, in thrift stores or at flea markets. Find nine bottles, and fill each one with leftover paint in the color of your choice. Swirl and dump out the excess paint to coat the inside of each bottle. Allow the paint to dry, then put a candle in the bottle. Instant menorah!

12/9/12

Did you know iPads that have never been in the hands of consumers can be purchased for up to $200 off? These in-store demonstration products are refurbished by Apple technicians, given new cases, screens and batteries, and come with a one-year warranty. Visit store.apple.com to browse a wide selection of refurbished iPads, iPods, laptops and desktops.