Zero-Waste Crafting Ideas for Kids

Crafting is a fantastic way for kids to explore creativity, develop fine motor skills – all while having fun! But let’s be honest, traditional arts and crafts can leave behind a lot of waste in the form of half-used, dried-out glue sticks, discarded construction paper and the ever-present pile of plastic packaging.

The solution? Zero-waste crafting! It teaches kids to think outside the (recycling) box, use what they already have and be mindful of their impact on the planet. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for hands-on learning. Zero-waste crafting reimagines creativity in a way that benefits your little  one and the planet they’re inheriting. Now, let’s get into some hands-on crafts you and your child can do together! 

You don’t need a fully stocked craft store to create amazing art. Everything you need is available and ready to use in your home. You can make traditional art supplies right at home using what you already have. 

Spend a crafternoon with your kiddo painting with watercolors made from natural pigment from mashed berries or spices mixed with a bit of water. Blueberries can make blue or purple, strawberries make red or pink, paprika makes orange, turmeric makes yellow and matcha powder makes green. Bonus: these paints are all natural so no need to worry about what’s in them – you already know! 

Gather old magazines, newspapers and other paper scraps to create collages with your child. There’s an almost endless amount of what you can create with a collage – and it reduces waste by reusing paper! You can even make your own glue with a simple recipe: 

• Mix 1 cup of flour with ⅓ of sugar in a saucepan.
• Add ¾ cup of water and mix until there are no clumps and it forms a paste.
• Pour in another ¾ cup of water and mix until smooth.
• Add one teaspoon of vinegar and place the saucepan over medium heat until it thickens.
• Cool and use – don’t forget to store it in an airtight container for your next craft day!

You and your little one can also forage around the yard for leaves, sticks, seeds and much more to add a natural element to the collage. Just remind your little one to pick only what nature is ready to give up – fallen leaves are perfect!   

Not all kids like the “traditional” kind of crafting with paints and glue – and that’s totally okay! There’s a fun, zero-waste craft for everyone. Little scientists, builders and problem-solvers will enjoy this STEM-focused craft that’s fun and educational. 

Grab some items from your recycling bin (bottles, milk jugs, egg cartons, etc.), scissors and tape. We’re building boats! Once you have your supplies, fill up your bathtub, sink or a large bucket. As the grown-up, you’ll be the wielder of the scissors, so cut a rough boat shape out of the milk jug and have your kiddo see if it floats. Encourage them to test different materials – which sink and which float? Have them use the tape and other materials to add elements to the boat like sails or paddles.

This is a great opportunity to teach them about STEM concepts like buoyancy and engineering. Plus, they’ll get to splash around in water and what kiddo doesn’t enjoy that! 

Have a kiddo who loves sensory activities and fidget items? These zero-waste crafts are for them! 

Transform old newspapers into paper mâché art! Mix up a simple paste of flour and water, and let your child dip strips of paper into it to create sculptures, bowls or masks. Once it dries, they can paint and decorate! 

Give scrap paper a second life by turning it into homemade paper. Blend together old newspaper or any other paper scraps with water. Strain the excess water and flatten the pulp into a sheet. Once it’s dry, voilà! Paper! 

This classic favorite teaches fine motor skills and tactile play – plus it’s easy to make with what you already have on hand. Follow this recipe: 

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1/3 cup salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Mix it all together and there you have it! You can even add color with natural pigment, like turmeric for yellow or dehydrated berries for red or pink. Bonus: Add in a bit of lavender for a calming sensory experience. 

Zero-waste crafting isn’t just about lowering consumption. It’s fun, educational and budget friendly! No matter what kinds of activities your kiddo gravitates to, there is a creative, zero-waste craft for them. 

Next time your little one wants a craft day, try repurposing what you already have instead of buying new supplies. They’ll learn about sustainability and the joy of turning “trash” into treasure!

Want more craft ideas? These easy, non-toxic father's day crafts are great for any time of year!