by Lenna Gonya

Created on: November 30, 2010

Moms, teachers, and scout leaders have been turning recycled materials into creative Christmas ornaments for years. Many of these have become family treasures that hang on the tree year after year.

One of the favorites is the paper roll angel. These angels, made from either a toilet paper roll or half of a paper towel roll are easy enough for kids of all ages to make. The body of the angel is the roll itself, either painted or covered with white material, gauze, and glitter. The head is a wooden ball, with a painted face, and a tuft of doll hair that can be found at any craft store. The crowning touch, of course, are the wings. These are made from cardboard and decorated with paint, bits of fluffy cotton and more glitter. Once finished, a string, gold cord or ribbon can be attached to hang it from the tree. Or, since it already has an opening suitable for sitting on the tree, it can be made into a homemade tree topper.

Jar lids, which are, for the most part disposed of, can be made into ornaments by adding colored paper, or even family pictures inside the lid, drilling a hole for a ribbon, and hanging on the tree. Many of these are dated for each consecutive year, making them a Christmas tradition that, over time, turns into quite a collection.

Glass bottles become vases, and jars, candle holders over the Christmas season. A large glass jar can be decorated on the outside with paint or bits of holly and berries and, at the same time, hold a tea light that illuminates both the interior of the jar and the decorations outside.

With a little felt material, baby food jars can become Santa jars. A wooden ball glued to the lid for the head, a red felt hat, and a cotton ball for a beard turn this recyclable into a convenient little gift jar that will be used over and over.

Even the common plastic bottle has its purpose in decorating. Cut in half, milk jugs and soda bottles can easily be transformed into holiday planters or candy containers. Gallon milk jugs make perfect luminaries, holding tea lights to light your porch, sidewalk or drive.

Today, when it is even more important to conserve and recycle, no material should be overlooked, and most can be transformed into something unique and creative for the holiday season.

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