by claire coshan

Created on: July 27, 2010   Last Updated: July 28, 2010

It seems that everything is digital nowadays, gone are the days when you had to be so careful not to scratch or damage your CD, now it seems that you are positively encouraged to get rid of them.

Some slightly damaged CDs can be repaired, but when a CD is beyond repair, there are some creative and fun things you can do with them.

Make Bowls: Put the CD in the oven over a metal bowl, leave on a low heat until the CD softens. Take out of the oven and mold into the shape you require (make sure you wear gloves as this must be done whilst the CD is hot.

Coasters: Many people use unwanted CD's as coasters, you can use either side of the CD and you can even cover them with material to match your décor.

Reflectors: A great tip for the garden is to attach CD's to small wooden stakes and dig them into the ground to give you reflectors to help you see a little better in the dark.

Sun Catcher: You can make a really effective and decorative sun catcher by gluing CD's together and hanging them in the window.

Template: If you are cutting something that needs a round shape then you can cut around CD's for a perfectly circular shape.

Makeshift Mirror: If you don't have a mirror to hand then you can use a CD as some CD's have a very clear background, try using this as a temporary measure.

Candle illuminator: Position CD's at a safe distance behind a candle, the reflection will illuminate the room beautifully.

Wall Art: With enough CD's you can create beautiful wall art, simply attach to the wall using blue tack, pins or glue. They can be used as frames for posters or even arranged to spell out a word. You can leave them whole or cut them into pieces or shards to create a glass like effect.

Jewellery: Put a CD in the microwave, I know it sounds dangerous, but it only needs to be left in for about 5 seconds. This creates a stunning crackled effect. Cut into small pieces and attach to ear wires or necklaces.

Dicso Ball: Purchase a polystyrene ball (they are available from most craft shops) and cut your CDs into small pieces. Attach a wire to the top so that it can be hung from the ceiling and  cover the ball with glues and stick the pieces on. Allow the glue to dry completely before hanging it up.

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