Are you one of those people who loves to craft but never knows what materials to use? Do you have old calendars lying around your house, taking up space and collecting dust? Well, look no further! Old calendars can be transformed into some amazing crafts, and this guide will show you how. From creating beautiful art pieces to making useful organizers, there are endless possibilities when it comes to DIY calendar crafts. So grab those old calendars and let’s get crafting!

Repurposing Old Calendars

The Benefits of Reusing Calendars

Reusing old calendars can be a great way to reduce waste, save money, and preserve memories. By repurposing these items, you can give them a new lease on life and prevent them from ending up in a landfill.

Reducing Waste

One of the main benefits of reusing calendars is that it helps to reduce waste. When you recycle or repurpose old calendars, you keep them out of the trash and prevent them from taking up space in a landfill. This can help to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our environment and contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet.

Saving Money

Another benefit of reusing calendars is that it can help you save money. Instead of buying new calendars every year, you can repurpose old ones and use them again. This can save you money on the cost of new calendars and help you to reduce your overall spending.

Preserving Memories

In addition to reducing waste and saving money, reusing calendars can also help you to preserve memories. Calendars often include photos and other mementos that you may want to keep as keepsakes. By repurposing old calendars, you can preserve these memories and keep them safe for years to come.

Overall, the benefits of reusing calendars are many. By repurposing these items, you can reduce waste, save money, and preserve memories, all while creating unique and personalized crafts.

Types of Old Calendars to Reuse

When it comes to repurposing old calendars, there are several types that can be used for crafting. These include:

• Wall calendars: These are the most common type of calendar that can be found in most homes and offices. They usually have large grids for each day of the month and are printed on heavy paper or cardstock.
• Desk calendars: These are smaller calendars that are designed to sit on a desk or tabletop. They typically have a smaller grid for each day and may also include a spot for notes or reminders.
• Appointment books: These are similar to desk calendars but are typically more portable and can be taken on the go. They often have a more compact grid for each day and may include spaces for notes and reminders as well.

No matter what type of old calendar you have, it can be repurposed into a unique craft project. With a little creativity and some basic crafting supplies, you can turn an old calendar into something beautiful and functional.

Craft Ideas for Old Calendars

1. Wall Art

Painting Techniques

Transforming old calendars into wall art is a creative way to add a personal touch to your home decor. There are several painting techniques that you can use to bring new life to your old calendars.

• Acrylic paint is a popular choice for painting old calendars. It is easy to work with and can be used to create a variety of designs. You can use different colors and techniques to create interesting patterns and textures.
• Watercolor is another painting technique that can be used to transform old calendars into wall art. This technique involves using water-based paints to create soft, flowing lines and subtle color blends.
• Spray paint is a quick and easy way to give old calendars a new look. You can use spray paint to create bold, vibrant designs or to add a layer of protection to your artwork.

Design Ideas

Once you have chosen your painting technique, you can start to think about the design ideas for your wall art. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Landscapes are a popular choice for wall art. You can use old calendars to create scenes of mountains, forests, or oceans.
• Abstract art is another option. You can use old calendars to create abstract designs that are bold and colorful.
• Mixed media is a technique that involves using multiple mediums to create a piece of art. You can use old calendars, along with other materials like fabric, paper, or buttons, to create a unique and interesting piece of wall art.

2. Journal Covers

Materials

• Old calendars: The calendars can be of any size, shape, or design.
• Cardboard or thick paper: This material is used to create the cover’s base.
• Scissors: Scissors are used to cut the calendar pages and cardboard into the desired shape.

• Glue: Glue is used to stick the calendar pages and cardboard together.

• Floral patterns: Choose a floral pattern from the calendar pages to create a nature-inspired journal cover.

• Minimalist designs: Use simple designs from the calendar pages to create a minimalist journal cover.
• Textured covers: Experiment with different textures by layering different types of paper or fabric on top of the calendar pages.

Instructions

1. First, choose the calendar pages that you want to use for the journal cover.
2. Cut the pages to the desired size and shape for the cover.
3. Use cardboard or thick paper to create the base of the cover.
4. Glue the calendar pages onto the base, making sure to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles.
5. Allow the glue to dry completely before using the journal cover.

Benefits

• Upcycling old calendars into journal covers is a great way to reduce waste and give new life to something that would otherwise be thrown away.
• Creating a unique journal cover using old calendars can be a fun and creative activity.
• The possibilities for design are endless, making it a great project for those who enjoy experimenting with different materials and techniques.

3. Gift Tags

• Old calendars: You will need to have a few old calendars lying around your house or office that you can use for this project. The calendars should be in good condition, without any tears or stains.
• Cardstock or heavy paper: This will be used to create the base of the gift tags. Cardstock is recommended as it is thicker and more durable than regular paper.
• Scissors: You will need a pair of scissors to cut the calendar pages and cardstock into the desired shapes.

• Glue: Glue is necessary to stick the calendar pages onto the cardstock. A glue stick or a liquid glue would work best for this project.

• Seasonal themes: You can create gift tags based on different seasons, such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, etc. Use the corresponding month or week pages from the calendar to create festive designs.

• Custom messages: You can write custom messages on the gift tags, such as “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Birthday,” or “Thank You.” This adds a personal touch to the gift tags and makes them more special.
• Creative shapes: Experiment with different shapes for your gift tags, such as stars, circles, or bells. You can also cut out images from the calendar pages, such as snowflakes or flowers, to create unique designs.

4. Picture Frames

• Old calendars: You will need a few old calendars that you no longer need or want to use. Look for calendars with interesting designs, patterns, or images that you can use for your picture frames.
• Wooden frames: You can use any type of wooden frame, such as a picture frame, a mirror frame, or a frame from a painting. The size of the frame will depend on the size of the calendar page you will be using.

• Glue: You will need a strong glue to attach the calendar page to the wooden frame.

• Vintage-inspired frames: You can create a vintage-inspired frame by attaching a calendar page from a past year to the wooden frame. This will give the frame a retro look and feel.

• Mixed media frames: You can use the calendar pages to create a mixed media frame by attaching different types of paper, fabric, or other materials to the frame. This will give the frame a unique and personalized look.
• Personalized frames: You can create a personalized frame by attaching a calendar page that has a special date or memory for you. This will make the frame a unique and meaningful gift for someone special.

To make a picture frame, start by selecting a wooden frame that matches the size of the calendar page you want to use. Cut the calendar page to the size of the frame, and then attach it to the frame using a strong glue. You can add decorative elements such as ribbon, lace, or other materials to make the frame more unique. Once the glue is dry, you can hang the frame on the wall or place it on a tabletop to display your favorite memories.

5. Wall Decals

• Old calendars: These can be any type of calendar, such as a wall calendar, desk calendar, or planner.
• Cutting machine or X-Acto knife: A cutting machine like a Silhouette or Cricut can be used to cut the designs out of the calendar pages. Alternatively, an X-Acto knife can be used to cut the designs by hand.
• Transfer paper: This type of paper is used to transfer the design from the calendar page to the wall. It is typically sold in rolls or sheets and is designed to be applied to the calendar page and then transferred to the wall.

• Scissors: Scissors are needed to cut the transfer paper to size.

• Quotes: One idea for a wall decal is to use a quote or saying from a calendar page. For example, a quote from a famous author or a motivational message could be used to create a beautiful and inspiring decal.

• Geometric patterns: Another idea is to use geometric patterns from the calendar pages to create a unique and eye-catching decal. These patterns can be used on their own or combined with other designs.
• Inspirational messages: Inspirational messages or affirmations can also be used to create a beautiful and uplifting wall decal. These messages can be from the calendar pages or created specifically for the decal.

How to Make Wall Decals

1. Choose the design you want to use for your wall decal.
2. Cut the design out of the calendar page using a cutting machine or X-Acto knife.
3. Cut the transfer paper to the size of the design.
4. Apply the transfer paper to the back of the design and smooth it out.
5. Apply the transfer paper to the wall where you want the decal to go.
6. Peel off the transfer paper, revealing the design on the wall.
7. If necessary, use scissors to trim the edges of the decal.
8. Enjoy your beautiful new wall decal!

6. Book Covers

• Old calendars
• Cardboard or thick paper
• Scissors

• Glue

• Graphic designs: Cut out images from old calendars and use them to create a collage on the cover of a book.

• Customized text: Use the dates and months from the calendar to create a personalized message on the cover of a book.
• Personalized patterns: Cut out shapes from the calendar pages and arrange them in a unique pattern on the cover of a book.

Book covers are a great way to repurpose old calendars. To make a book cover using an old calendar, you will need a few simple materials such as scissors, glue, and some cardboard or thick paper.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cut out the pages of the old calendar that you want to use for the book cover.
2. Lay the pages out on a flat surface and arrange them in the desired pattern.
3. Cut out any unnecessary edges or borders to create a smooth edge for the book cover.
4. Use glue to adhere the pages to the cardboard or thick paper.
5. Allow the glue to dry completely before attaching the book cover to the book.

By using old calendars to create book covers, you can add a personal touch to your reading material while also reducing waste. Get creative with the design ideas and have fun creating unique book covers that showcase your personal style.

7. Greeting Cards

• Old calendars: The first step in making greeting cards is to choose an old calendar. Any type of calendar can be used, including wall calendars, desk calendars, and even the calendar app on your phone. The more colorful and visually appealing the calendar, the better the final product will be.
• Cardstock or heavy paper: You will need cardstock or heavy paper to make the greeting cards. This will give the cards a sturdy and professional look. You can also use regular paper, but it may not hold up as well over time.
• Scissors: Scissors are needed to cut the calendar pages into the desired shapes and sizes for the greeting cards.

• Glue: Glue is used to attach the calendar pages to the cardstock or heavy paper.

• Birthday cards: Birthday cards are a great way to use old calendars in your crafting. You can cut out the month of the person’s birthday and attach it to a card. You can also use the numbers from the calendar to make a fun number-shaped card.

• Thank-you cards: Thank-you cards are always appreciated, and using an old calendar can add a unique touch. You can cut out the month or a special date, such as an anniversary, and attach it to a card.
• Anniversary cards: Anniversary cards are a great way to use old calendars to create a unique and personalized gift. You can cut out the month of the anniversary and attach it to a card, or you can use the numbers from the calendar to make a fun number-shaped card.

8. Table Centerpieces

• Vase or container

• Floral arrangements

• Seasonal themes: Incorporate the colors and motifs of the current season to create a visually appealing centerpiece that matches the occasion. For example, use autumnal hues like orange, red, and brown for a fall-themed centerpiece.

• Custom messages: Write special messages or dates on the calendar pages and display them prominently in the centerpiece. This could be a wedding anniversary, a birthday, or any other important date that holds significance for the occasion.
• Personalized patterns: Cut out shapes from the calendar pages and arrange them in a creative pattern around the vase or container. This could be anything from geometric shapes to more organic patterns like leaves or flowers. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the design to your personal style and the theme of the event.

With these simple materials and design ideas, you can easily transform old calendars into stunning table centerpieces that will impress your guests and add a personal touch to your celebration. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a wedding, or a dinner party, these DIY calendar crafts are a great way to add a unique and personalized touch to your decor.

9. Suncatchers

• Styrofoam or plastic balls
• Acrylic paint

• Sequins or glitter

• Seasonal designs

• Geometric patterns
• Personalized messages

Suncatchers: A Beautiful Way to Upcycle Old Calendars

9.1 Materials Required

To create these delightful suncatchers, you will need old calendars, Styrofoam or plastic balls, acrylic paint, and sequins or glitter. The materials are readily available and inexpensive, making this project a budget-friendly way to transform your old calendars into beautiful crafts.

9.2 Design Ideas

The possibilities for designing your suncatchers are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Seasonal designs

Create suncatchers that celebrate the seasons. You can use the colors and motifs associated with each season to create unique designs. For example, for spring, you could use pastel colors and depict flowers, while for winter, you could use cooler colors and snowflakes.

Geometric patterns

Another idea is to create geometric patterns using the shapes of the old calendar pages. Cut out the shapes and arrange them in a pleasing pattern on the Styrofoam or plastic ball. This creates a striking visual effect that adds interest to your suncatcher.

Personalized messages

Add a personal touch to your suncatchers by incorporating personalized messages. You could write a special date or anniversary, a quote, or a name on the calendar pages and use it as part of the design. This makes the suncatcher a unique and meaningful gift for someone special.

9.3 Steps to Create Your Suncatcher

1. Start by cutting out the calendar pages into the shapes you want to use for your suncatcher.
2. Next, paint the Styrofoam or plastic ball with acrylic paint in the colors you want to use. Allow the paint to dry completely.
3. Attach the cut-out shapes to the ball using a hot glue gun. You can arrange the shapes in a random pattern or create a specific design.
4. Add sequins or glitter to the suncatcher for extra sparkle.
5. Finally, hang your suncatcher in a sunny window to catch the light and add a touch of beauty to your home.

With these simple steps, you can create beautiful suncatchers that will brighten up any room in your home. So why not gather your old calendars and get started on this fun and creative project today?

10. Photo Ornaments

• Wooden ornament shapes

• Personal photos

• Family photos

• Travel memories
• Holiday-themed designs

Transforming Old Calendars into Crafts: A Guide to DIY Calendar Crafts

Craft Ideas for Old Calendars

10. Photo Ornaments

Materials

Design Ideas

Materials

The materials required for this craft are old calendars, wooden ornament shapes, scissors, glue, and personal photos. You can use any type of photos that hold sentimental value for you, such as family photos, travel memories, or holiday-themed designs. The calendars can be any size, and you can use any color scheme that matches your preferences.

Design Ideas

The possibilities for designing photo ornaments with old calendars are endless. You can use family photos to create a personalized family tree ornament, or use travel photos to make a memory jar ornament. You can also create holiday-themed designs by using images of your favorite holidays or seasons.

To start, choose the photos you want to use and cut them out carefully with scissors. Then, glue the photos onto the wooden ornament shapes, making sure they are aligned correctly. You can also add other embellishments such as ribbons, glitter, or stickers to enhance the design.

Once the ornaments are complete, you can hang them on your Christmas tree or display them on a shelf or mantelpiece. They make great gifts for friends and family, and you can create a unique collection of ornaments each year using old calendars.

Tips and Tricks for Repurposing Calendars

Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to repurposing old calendars into crafts, choosing the right materials is crucial to achieving the desired outcome. Here are some tips to help you make the right choices:

• Thick paper is ideal for creating journal covers and book covers. It provides a sturdy surface that can withstand daily use and protect your belongings. You can also use thicker paper to create more elaborate designs or to add extra layers to your crafts.
• Cardboard is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways. For example, you can use cardboard to create gift tags, table centerpieces, or even picture frames. It’s a lightweight and affordable option that can be easily shaped and painted to fit your desired design.
• Wooden frames are perfect for creating picture frames or wall decorations. They provide a sturdy and classic look that can enhance any room. You can also paint or stain the frames to match your desired color scheme or style.

Overall, choosing the right materials is an important step in creating successful DIY calendar crafts. By selecting materials that are sturdy, versatile, and affordable, you can create beautiful and unique crafts that you’ll be proud to display in your home.

Customizing Designs

Repurposing old calendars into crafts is a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor. To customize your designs, consider the following tips:

• Use scissors or a craft knife to create custom shapes: Cut out shapes from the calendar pages to use as embellishments in your crafts. You can create intricate designs by cutting out multiple shapes and arranging them in a collage.
• Experiment with different painting techniques: Use paint to add color and interest to your calendar crafts. Try different techniques such as layering, stenciling, or sponging to create unique effects.
• Add personal touches with text and images: Personalize your calendar crafts by adding text or images that have special meaning to you. You can use stickers, stamps, or even print out photos to add a personal touch to your crafts.

Enhancing Visual Appeal

Repurposing old calendars into crafts can be a fun and creative way to give them a new lease on life. To enhance the visual appeal of your crafts, consider the following tips:

• Embellish with glitter, sequins, or other embellishments: Adding glitter, sequins, or other embellishments can give your crafts a touch of glamour and make them stand out. Consider adding these embellishments to the borders, edges, or any other area that needs a pop of color or sparkle.
• Layer different materials for added dimension: Layering different materials can add depth and dimension to your crafts. Consider using multiple sheets of paper, adding texture with fabric or burlap, or using different materials for the background and foreground. This can help create a more interesting and visually appealing craft.
• Showcase personal style with unique designs: One of the best things about repurposing old calendars into crafts is that you can showcase your personal style and creativity. Consider experimenting with different designs, colors, and shapes to create a craft that truly reflects your personality and style. This can make your crafts even more special and meaningful.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of transforming old calendars into crafts?

Old calendars can be transformed into unique and creative crafts, rather than being thrown away. By repurposing them, you can give them a new lease on life and create something beautiful and functional.

2. What types of crafts can be made from old calendars?

There are many types of crafts that can be made from old calendars, such as wall art, journals, notepads, photo frames, and more. The possibilities are endless and can be tailored to your personal style and preferences.

3. How do I start transforming my old calendar into a craft?

The first step is to remove the pages from the calendar and set them aside. You can then choose to use the cover as is, or repurpose it by adding paint, stickers, or other embellishments. Once you have finished transforming the cover, you can attach it to a piece of cardboard or foam board to create a sturdy base for your craft.

4. Can I use the pages from the calendar in my craft?

Yes, the pages from the calendar can be used in your craft. You can use them as is, or cut them up to create smaller pieces for mosaics or collages. You can also use them to create layered elements in your craft, such as 3D flowers or butterflies.

5. What materials do I need to transform my old calendar into a craft?

You will need an old calendar, some scissors, glue, a piece of cardboard or foam board, and any other materials you wish to use for your craft, such as paint, stickers, or beads. You may also want to have some tools on hand, such as a ruler, bone folder, or X-Acto knife, depending on the craft you are making.

6. Are there any specific techniques I should use when transforming my old calendar into a craft?

Some techniques you may want to consider using include decoupage, collage, or mosaic. Decoupage involves gluing the pages onto a surface and then sealing them with a clear coat. Collage involves arranging the pages onto a surface to create a larger image. Mosaic involves cutting up the pages into small pieces and arranging them to create a larger image or pattern. You can also experiment with different mediums, such as paint or ink, to add texture and depth to your craft.

Old Calendars Can Be Reused