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Turning waste bottles into crafts is honestly one of the easiest ways I’ve found to reduce trash while making something useful or just fun to look at. With all the plastic around, why not turn some of it into projects that help the planet and add a bit of personality to your home?
These 15 clever waste bottle craft ideas show how easy it is to reuse bottles instead of throwing them away.
There’s a little something here for everyone—whether you want to get creative for fun or actually need something practical.
1. Plastic bottle herb garden planters
I turn plastic bottles into herb garden planters all the time. They’re great for saving space and cutting down on waste. Just grab a bottle, cut it open, toss in some soil, and plant your favorite herbs—basil, mint, whatever you like. These planters fit right in on a windowsill or even a tiny balcony.
2. DIY bird feeders from plastic bottles
Empty plastic bottles make surprisingly good bird feeders. I just cut a couple holes, stick in some wooden spoons for perches, and fill them with seed. It’s quick, it’s cheap, and the birds seem to love it.
3. Hanging lanterns using glass bottles
Empty glass bottles become hanging lanterns with a little effort. I wash them out, make sure the neck’s wide enough for string lights, and then thread in some waterproof lights. Twine or wire around the neck does the trick for hanging. The glass softens the light and gives off a cozy glow. I love using these outside, but they look just as good indoors.
4. Plastic bottle flower decorations
Plastic bottles are perfect for making flower decorations. I cut and paint the bottles into petal shapes, then piece them together. They’re bright, cheerful, and honestly kind of addictive to make. You just need a few basic supplies.
5. Self-watering planters from bottles
Old bottles can become self-watering planters. I cut one in half, flip the top into the bottom, and run a cloth wick from the soil down into the water. The wick keeps the soil damp, so you don’t have to water as often.
6. Plastic bottle broom craft
I’ve made brooms out of old plastic bottles by chopping off the bottoms, slicing the sides into strips, and tying them to a stick. It’s simple, and the result is actually pretty handy for sweeping up small messes.
7. Decorative bottle wall art
Turning empty bottles into wall art is one of my favorite ways to add color and texture without spending much. I’ll cut or paint the bottles, then arrange them into whatever pattern feels right. It’s a fun way to use up stuff that would otherwise go straight to the recycling bin.
8. Bottle cap mosaics on plastic bottles
I use plastic bottles as the base for colorful bottle cap mosaics. The curved shape gives the finished piece a cool, unexpected look. I just glue the caps on, mixing up colors and patterns as I go. It’s a fun way to recycle and decorate.
9. Plastic bottle vertical garden
I use empty plastic bottles to make vertical gardens. They’re perfect for saving space and keeping things tidy. I cut the bottles, fill them with soil, and hang them on a wall or fence. It’s a great way to garden in small areas and cut down on plastic waste at the same time.
10. Upcycled bottle chandelier
I’ve made a few bottle chandeliers, and they always turn out unique. Cutting bottles into shapes and attaching them to a frame gives off some really interesting light effects. I use LED lights to keep it eco-friendly and safe. It’s a fun project that adds a bit of flair to any space.
11. Plastic bottle desk organizers
I like using plastic bottles to keep my desk tidy. I cut them into halves or sections, and suddenly I’ve got compartments for pens, paper clips, and all the little stuff that usually disappears. It’s cheap, easy, and saves a trip to the store for new organizers.
12. Floating garden lights from bottles
Empty bottles work surprisingly well as floating garden lights. I pop in some small solar lights and seal the bottle. They float on ponds or pools, casting a gentle glow. It’s a simple way to add a little magic to your garden at night.
13. Bottle-based insect traps
I make insect traps from empty plastic bottles by cutting off the top and flipping it upside down into the base, making a funnel. Add some sugar water or a bit of fruit, and you’ve got a chemical-free way to catch mosquitoes or fruit flies. They’re easy to make and you can reuse them as needed.
14. Plastic bottle storage containers
I often turn plastic bottles into storage containers. Cutting them into sections gives me handy bins for organizing office supplies, craft tools, or whatever small stuff tends to pile up. It keeps my space a bit more organized, and I don’t have to buy new storage boxes.
15. Bottle vase centerpieces
I love grabbing empty bottles and turning them into simple, stylish vases. Just toss in some fresh or dried flowers, and suddenly you’ve got a centerpiece that actually feels special—any table, any time.
If you paint or wrap the bottles, you get a little extra color and texture. And honestly, I keep reusing mine because why not?
