12/12/12

Natural corks from wine and champagne bottles are a great way to start a roaring fire. Local restaurants and bars are a great place to get corks for free -- just ask a bartender to set aside a few for you. Fill a jar with corks and pour rubbing alcohol to the top. Let the corks soak up the alcohol. When you're ready to start a fire, remove a cork and light it, and it will start a slow, even burn. Remember: Use natural cork only and not plastic to make these fire starters.

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!