Happiness is Recycling Folded Paper

Origami SackLet me guess, you have a ream of 100% recycled, Rain Forest Alliance Certified paper conveniently stacked next to the printer. You earn additional eco-brownie points for printing on both sides of each sheet. Good for you! Now, don’t take off running for the recycle bin. Your humble memo may be destined for a higher purpose before meeting it’s maker.

We are all familiar with tiny paper cranes and jumping frogs in the world of origami.These popular characters often require a specialized paper that is thin and square. However, if you think outside the box, then you can make a box, along with many other useful items.

The following video shows you how to create an amazing flower shaped CD holder by tracing around the disc. You will need something a bit bigger than copy paper. Expired wall calenders or old posters might enjoy this fate. These materials would even be good for making super-sized versions of the 8.5″x 11″ sheet projects linked below.

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Make a heart, postcard case, envelope, or sack from printer paper at Origami Club
– I quickly whipped up both the postcard case and sack (pictured at top). They are completely easy and adorable! Try following the first few steps of the diagram before folding along with the animation. I might also note that I lazily grabbed the first scrap sheet I saw for the sack, which was a copy of a tax form. Documents with sensitive personal information should not be used for origami, unless your accountant has an artistic side.

How Turn a Piece of Paper into a Bowl at Tricklife – For this one, be ready to pause and rewind at a few steps so you can catch up. The little side handles lend a nice basket-like appearance.
Origami CD Envelope
– Kiss those plastic jewel cases goodbye. This is cute, sturdy, and unlike other tutorials that I found, doesn’t need glue or tape. Enjoy!
A Folded Paper Box in 8 Steps – From two pieces of paper you can make a 4″x5″ gift box that is 2″ deep. It utilizes the size of the paper well, while being very quick and easy.
Recycle your Paper and MAKE BOXES! at Etsy Labs – Yet another wee box! This one requires a bit of cutting, but the results are very clean lines. Make 2 for a square gift box.

My name is Autumn, and I’m a vigilante eco-craft ninja, here to DIY your socks off while saving the planet.

2 thoughts on “Happiness is Recycling Folded Paper”

  1. Pingback: Green Your Ride » DIY Valentine: Make Your Own Custom Envelopes from Recycled Paper

  2. Pingback: Green Your Ride » DIY Valentine: Make Your Own Custom Envelopes from Recycled Paper

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