Creative Reuse

(also known as upcycling or repurposing), is when the addition of creativity is added to an already manufactured item and brings a new function. A CD jewel case can become a bird feeder, wine corks turned into a cork board, a t-shirt transformed into a rug or tote bag. (defined by The Reuse Alliance)

Creative Reuse Centers, like SCRAP Creative Reuse, collect discarded materials from the public that can be reused and given new life. Many centers resell these items to the public for a bargain or donate them to teachers, organizations or other groups for further reuse.

Specific items you may find at a SCRAP Creative Reuse center, include:

• Yarn, fabric, and sewing notions
• Arts, crafts, school, and office supplies
• Paper of all colors and sizes
• Specialty items donated by local businesses and manufacturers
• Colored pencils, markers, and pens
• Scrapbooking supplies (stamps, paper, tools, etc.)
• Greeting cards and gift wrap for every occasion
• Wood, metal, and plastic in a variety of shapes and sizes
• Vintage ephemera

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

• Educators can stretch their budgets by purchasing affordable and unique materials
• Kids can learn about reuse in a fun, playful and diverse environment
• The local creative community will have access to inexpensive, quality materials
• Thousands of pounds of useable materials will be diverted from the landfill
• Households, manufacturers and businesses will have a hub to donate unwanted materials (that otherwise get dumped)
• Centers can create green collar jobs and volunteer opportunities—and support grassroots economic development