It’s like negotiating a peace treaty these days to try to pry a tablet out of a grandkid’s hands. Given their extensive use of video games, YouTube marathons, and screens that could light up Times Square, it’s easy to question whether they even remember how to play without a glowing rectangle.

We understand that for the little ones, this routine is something we didn’t have when we were young, but spending all day connected to the internet is unhealthy for their minds. If you aim to convince your grandkids to spend more time with you doing fun things, this list will be your friend in need.

When we discuss old-fashioned fun, we mean no apps, no passwords, just good times and maybe some glitter on your carpet. These screen-free activities will engage your grandchildren in learning, laughing, and—gasp!—putting down their gadgets, ranging from backyard adventures to kitchen crafts and everything in between.

Prepare for a day filled with genuine connection by gathering your puzzle pieces and putting on your gloves. After all, spending time with one another creates memories, not swiping.

Encourage them to draw their cartoons

Do your grandkids love to draw? If so, one of the first screen-free activities that will help them forget about the internet is to let them draw everything that crosses their minds. Encourage your grandkids to create their cartoons rather than watching them. Ask them to draw you a hero and a villain using crayons and a piece of paper. Allow them to return and share their hero’s tale with you after they’re finished.

Do you also have drawing skills? Then start a fun game. Each of you has an hour to fill out a piece of blank paper while standing back to back. Show each other the finished product at the end of the hour.

Listen to an audiobook

Because I am old, I prefer reading from a physical book. But we’re living in modern times, and both Kindle and audiobooks have become super popular in the past years. And for kids, audiobooks are more engaging, and it’s a fun activity you can do together. Opt for those that are easy to understand, especially if the kids are young. Fantasy books work wonders and test their imagination, too.

Thereafter, ask the juniors to draw everything from their imagination, and don’t forget to encourage them afterwards.

…Or try the classical reading trick

Your grandkids may find that children’s books provide the necessary escape. Reading to kids or letting them read on their own has advantages. It helps them develop their mental images and improves their imagination. If you’re looking for a way to encourage curiosity and promote brain development, books are perfect for all kids. Young children often enjoy books that rhyme, have rhythm, or repeat. It’s one of the screen-free activities that will stimulate the creativity of your grandkids.

Pressed flower bookmarks

Do you remember that, back in the day, this used to be summer homework? We all went out in the town, in parks, and such to collect beautiful flowers and press them. Encourage your grandkids to make crafts inspired by nature by gathering flowers from a stroll and pressing them in books.

You could also try teaching them some facts about the flowers to make this an educational exercise. They will be super engaged! Additionally, it’s an enjoyable activity that will distract their attention from their smartphones for a few hours.

Create a game box

Place coloring books, playing cards, and simple puzzles in a box that your child can play with by themselves. To give them something to look forward to the following day, you could also have your child assist with assembling the box the day before!

Offer them creative toys

A child will be occupied for a long time with any toy that allows them to create. Invest in Play-Dough, Kinetic Sand, Legos, and puzzles. Your child will develop their spatial reasoning skills in addition to having hours of fun playing with them.

Children without technology are entertained by well-designed puzzles. While difficult puzzles keep older children occupied for hours, beginner puzzles keep toddlers occupied and give both parents and grandparents some quiet time. Of course, you can help them do the puzzles if you want. It’s a great activity that you can do on a Sunday evening.

psst! Looking for a fun puzzle for small kids (4-6 years) that’s also educational? This 70-piece United States Puzzle might be the best choice! It’s available on Amazon at the price of $14.34. 

Encourage outdoor time as much as possible

Remember how busy our parents were! If you have a backyard, let your grandchild run around with a ball and a stick. Trust me, they won’t get bored! If you’re concerned about their safety, please ensure they remain within your view. Walking, biking, collecting rocks, and even running are all nice outdoor activities, and you can take advantage of this and do some light cardio too.

Fun is guaranteed, and both of you will be exhausted at the end of the day, so you will forget even turning on the smartphone.

Grow a garden

Assign your youngster a little plant to look after. On the windowsill, they might be able to grow some flowers or a herb garden. First, give them a tiny guide on how to take care of the plant. You can put a sticky note with the instruction on the pot.

Treasure hunt

Give them a list of small objects to find around the house or, if you have a garden or other common space where they can play, outside to get them moving for a while. Pick something soft, something red, or something with a lovely scent! Let’s see how many fun items you can gather in just 20 minutes. Have a blast!

Build a fort inside the living room

Getting extra cardboard boxes, blankets, and pillows so the juniors can construct forts is a fun project to do at home. Ask them to use the cardboard boxes to make a kid-friendly obstacle course. Watch their inner builder and architect come to life as they let their imagination run wild.

Do some crafts together

Among the best screen-free activities for juniors are painting and coloring. Provide them with their preferred coloring books or paint colors to unleash their imaginations. For infants and toddlers, sensory art is a fantastic first activity. Let them experiment with textures and color changes by combining various colors in zip-lock bags.

If the kids are curious, encourage them to explore further by teaching them how to sew, glue, and create other crafts. Arts and crafts develop the creative part of the brain and contribute to their happiness.

You can take advantage of this activity to create seasonal gifts together. You can create gifts for occasions such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even the 4th of July.

Ask them to help you with the chores

Although it’s not a common choice, this might be beneficial to them. Have your kids clean their rooms if you’re going to clean the kitchen. In addition to giving you more time to do your job, your grandkids will understand that they, too, have a part to play in keeping the house tidy.

How do you keep your grandkids away from screens? Do you have any special tricks that you would like to share with other readers, maybe? Please let us know in the comments.

You may also like: 6 Easy DIY Projects to Upgrade Your Backyard. 

Have you ever thought about how much plastic we all use daily? Well, if you look at the amount of plastic leaving your home, you should get a good idea of how much we use it in our lives. It’s rather shocking.

And if you want to be astonished some more, here are some quick facts for you:

-Each minute, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic pollution ends up in our ocean, and by 2050, there’ll be more plastic in the waters than fish.
-Plastic can last for 450 years… or more.
-Over 90% of fish and birds are believed to have plastic particles in their stomach.
-73% of beach litter is plastic.
-A significant percentage of all this plastic is plastic bottles. In fact, a million plastic bottles are sold EVERY MINUTE. And more than 40% of this is tossed after a single use.
-Only about 9% of the world’s plastic is recycled, and 12% is incinerated. The rest ends up in landfills.

But even though these are all alarming facts, we can make things better. And it begins with some tiny actions starting at home, like cutting down on the plastic we bring into our homes.

As for the plastic already lying around? Let’s use it rather than throw it away! Here are 12 practical ways to recycle plastic bottles in and around your home to maximize the use of those single-use bottles.

Pasta container

Considering all the plastic we use daily, you surely have a couple of bottles lying around. Use them smartly and recycle plastic bottles to create a few pasta dispensers!

If you like spaghetti, you know that storing it can be a challenge due to its shape and size. But this is a brilliant way of storing long pasta like spaghetti and fettuccine without breaking them or leaving them in open packs.

Bird feeder

Here’s your chance to help nature in two remarkable ways: With this project, you can recycle plastic bottles and feed birds in your backyard or balcony.

While it’s true that you’ll need to make a run for some birdseed, all the other materials are probably already hiding somewhere in your kitchen. And you can also get creative with paint colors while you’re at it!

Jewelry stand

Can you believe you can make a jewelry stand if you recycle plastic bottles? Hats off to anyone who can turn trash into a work of art! This one is not only a genius in design but also super helpful! It’s a fantastic way to keep things organized on your dressing table, especially if you don’t have a lot of drawer space.

Simply cut a couple of bottles to the size you prefer and staple them or glue them together in a circle to make a lovely flower pattern. You can even paint them if you wish.

Snack bowl

Most soda bottles have pretty sturdy bases that don’t leak, making them excellent bowls! So the next time you’re having your latest watchathon or weekend Netflix binge session put the candy, nuts and other snacks in a DIY snack bowl you’ve created yourself.

Plastic bag dispenser

Don’t forget that, like repurposing plastic bottles, reusing plastic bags represents another small step toward a more sustainable future. But plastic bags can quickly take over a drawer or broom closet and create chaos in an otherwise organized place.

With this simple solution, you’ll have a convenient and attractive spot for keeping bags contained until you need them. Cut the top of a leftover bottle of soda, puncture a hole through the top rim, slide through your choice of ribbon or string, and hang it in a closet.

You can even create a couple, depending on your needs. Then, hang it in a closet that’s easily accessible when you leave the house to go grocery shopping.

Grains and lentils containers

If you love reusing containers just as much as me, you’ll love this idea! Group similar plastic bottles together to keep things looking neat and pretty for a cohesive look.

You can use bigger bottles for grains and smaller ones for lentils or even cereal and pasta.

Waterproof storage tube

Create a waterproof storage tube made from recycled plastic bottles, and it’ll be the perfect addition to your emergency kit or camping supplies.

It can keep long matches safe and dry, among other things. You can make this convenient container using a short plastic pipe and the mouths and caps of two water bottles.

Drip irrigation

A drip irrigation system is a fantastic water-efficient solution that helps get moisture to a plant’s roots. Now, you should pay top dollar for the installation and materials of a quality irrigation system. But if, like me, you’re on a budget, all you need is a few recycled plastic bottles and a sock.

Simply punch a bunch of holes in a plastic bottle, pop in an old sock, then bury the bottle to the neck and fill it with water every once in a while, which will slowly leak to the surrounding roots.

Strawberry tower reservoir

Growing fresh strawberries in your garden might seem like only a dream if you’re stuck with a tiny spot where bushes have little room to grow. But don’t worry!

You can easily solve this issue by creating a space-saving strawberry tower using recycled plastic bottles. The vertical garden incorporates a built-in reservoir from an upturned plastic bottle so plants stay hydrated correctly.

Path lights

Everyone wants a functional and lovely outdoor space, but installing new landscaping decor can be a huge drain on your wallet. Well, you can create some DIY path lights using recycled plastic bottles if you’re looking for ways to boost curb appeal without burning a hole in your wallet.

Easily assembled from recycled plastic bottles, tea lights, dowels, and a bit of paint, they will significantly impact your next backyard bash.

… Psst! If you want to lend a helping hand, saving the environment, try to replace your water bottles with a reusable version.

There are many great options out there. But here’s one of my favorites from Amazon: IRON °FLASK Camping & Hiking Hydration Flask. It has 3 lids and is leak proof, plus BPA free!

Mobile charging holder

Don’t you wish you had thought of this idea earlier? I love this tip because it’s perfect for rented apartments that are usually short on space and where you can’t drill too many, or not at all, holes in the wall.

It’s such an economical, easy, and simple solution for your phone. Plus, it’s another clever way you can recycle plastic bottles!

Greenhouse

A greenhouse forms the ideal environment for growing plants. But most people don’t have enough space to build one in their backyard. If your seedlings need a little help keeping the cold away, though, you can fake greenhouse conditions if you recycle plastic bottles.

All you have to do is unscrew the cap of the bottle and cut the bottom off a one-liter or bigger version. Then, place it over a plant to keep it warm from frost and safe from rodents.

Do you know of any other recycle plastic bottles uses I haven’t thought of? Let me know in the comments section below. But don’t leave yet!

If you liked this article, I highly recommend also reading: 14 Easy Ways to Give Old Windows a New Life

We can’t deny that there is some sort of magic when it comes to DIY Christmas ornaments. Especially if they’re approved by the one and only Martha Stewart! So what do you say if in this article I show you some DIY inspo and all the instructions you need to create your magical decorations for both the Christmas tree and your household?

I hope you’re as excited as I am to do this, so take a seat, make yourself comfortable, and gather all the tools you need to start crafting. You don’t need a degree in crafting to make these do-it-yourself projects; they’re as easy as tying a bow on a Christmas present. Just a little bit of patience and a ton of glitter. Ready to bring the winter wonderland into your home? Let’s start!

Plaid ball ornaments made of tartan

When it comes to DIY Christmas ornaments that are also super easy to do and don’t require much time as well, tartan ones are among Martha Stewart’s favorites. The ornaments can be made easily by folding and cutting ribbons into banners and finishing them with kilt pins or by winding bias strips of plaid fabric around foam balls.

To make the plaid balls, all you need is a rotary cutter, a ruler, and 1/2-inch strips of tartan fabric. Attach the end of one strip to a ball with glue. When the strip runs out, glue the end and wrap the remaining strip around the ball.

Until the ball is completely covered, keep wrapping more strips in different directions; secure with glue. Cut an 8-inch length of ribbon, then knot it after folding it over. To secure the knot beneath the pin’s head, insert a bank pin into the ball. Voilà, the ornaments are ready!

To make pennant DIY Christmas ornaments, just cut a ribbon into 8-inch lengths. After, just fold each length in half. To make a pleat, pinch the sides in the fold to form a point, then iron. Make a hole in each ribbon with a pin. It can be decorated with a safety pin if you’d like.

Salt dough ornaments

Oh, these are so cute, and they can be done with the help of kids too! All you need for these DIY Christmas ornaments is 2 cups of flour and 1 cup of salt. Mix them in 1 cup of warm (not hot!) water. Let it sit for 10 minutes on a floured chopping board.

After rolling it out to a thickness of 3/8 inch, freeze it for half an hour. Before cutting out animal shapes with cookie cutters, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Attach screw eyes to the shapes’ tops. After 30 minutes of freezing, bake for 4–6 hours. Allow them to cool.

Meanwhile, in a bottle, mix some glue and paint. Ask the kids what color they prefer for each animal. To add a touch of Christmas magic, sink them in a bit of glitter too. I recommend doing that while the paint is still wet; otherwise, it won’t stick. When you’re done painting, let them dry overnight. Then hang them on the Christmas tree!

Frosted glass ornaments

Another craft that’s super easy to do and you don’t need many materials for it except your old Christmas tree decorations and some shard glitter. All you need to do is divide each glass ornament into two or three sections with one or two strips of tape. Apply glue to one area, then, using a tray, scatter seed beads on it sparingly without covering it entirely.

Finally, scatter the glitter mixture on top. After removing the tape, give it two hours to dry.

Jingle bells on a ribbon

To add a festive touch to your front door, get a variety of tiny bells (such as silver, gold, and red ones) and string them onto two wire loops. Twist the loop ends together, form them into a cluster, and fasten them with a large bow. Use a piece of cord to hang the ornament from a doorknob. You’re missing the bells? Get your box of 300 pieces for $5.49. Trust me, once you start crafting 300 won’t be enough!

Silver/ gold seed-pod ornaments

Another super-duper adorable Christmas ornament is the pinecone. But how can you give them a touch of magic, hang them around the house, or simply place them on the dinner table near the cutlery? Easy! I’ll tell you.

Apply shimmering metallic paint (gold or silver, whatever you prefer) to various natural beauties, such as sponge mushrooms, acorns, poppy pods, and pine cones, to create your forest of simple yet striking ornaments. For $7.99, you can purchase glossy acrylic paint in a variety of colors from Amazon. The tube has 4.1 oz so it will last a while.

Small Christmas wreaths

Don’t throw away that fallen foliage from your Christmas tree! Make some tiny wreaths instead. To create a festive look, simply glue sprigs of juniper, cedar, and spruce around an embroidery hoop and hang the wreaths with red ribbon.

Paper snowflakes

Do you remember the time when we were kids and we were taught to make tiny cutesy paper ornaments? It’s time to recreate those memories! Among the easiest DIY Christmas ornaments are the timeless paper snowflakes. All you need is a square piece of paper, sharp scissors, and a couple of templates you can find on Google to make a snowflake flurry that will transform your house into a temporary winter paradise.

Wall-mounted Christmas tree

If one tall Christmas tree isn’t enough for your home to look and feel festive, you can make one from fallen foliage and mount it on the wall. Simply use hooks to secure glossy garlands in different sizes to your wall until a “tree” forms. Like you would to a real tree, decorate it with lights, decorations, and other baubles.

Glittered reindeer

Do you have one or two reindeer figurines at home that need a change of look? Martha Stewart has a brilliant idea for them. All you have to do is glue a deer figurine, add glitter, and then spray it with fixative. For a cozy holiday scene, place the glittering animals on fake snow and some lit candles nearby. You can put it everywhere, including on the dinner table.

Quartz icicle ornament

With this imaginative twist on icicles, you can add some wintry vibe to your tree. To create these shimmering, dangling strands, all you have to do is group a couple of clear and light-pink quartz points that had been top-drilled on jewelry wire, looped each end, and fastened a metallic cord. Then just hang them in the Christmas tree!

Gum drop garland

Kids can easily participate in this Christmas decorating project, and together you can have a lot of fun. What do you have to do? First, gather some sugar-coated jelly. These are the best to work with. Attach a sewing needle to the end of a piece of string and thread on the candy, such as gum drops or any other candy that is easily punctured. For a festive look, you can showcase throughout your home, try alternating festive colors like red and green.

Related article: 8 Best Tips on How to Fix Your Christmas Lights. 

Transform your garage with these easy DIY solutions! Discover simple projects that can turn clutter into organized bliss!
Just a few creative tweaks and some easy-to-follow tips, and you’ll maximize your space to have both a functional and stylish garage!

1. Store More on Walls

From a handyman to another: Make sure you don’t miss out on a lot of potential for garage wall storage. If you only mount brackets, hooks, and hardware, we have more solutions.

Try this idea: Install a layer of three-quarter-inch plywood over the drywall and the exposed studs. This is ideal because it creates a fastening surface, making it easy to mount storage hardware and organize all your tools better. Using this idea increases efficiency and maximizes wall space. If you want more ideas, check out the next pages.

Our suggestion for good quality plywood is here. Don’t worry about carrying it from stores, as you can just order it from Amazon, wait for it at home, and start your arts and crafts when it’s delivered.

2. Stack Bins Vertically To Save Floor Space

A fantastic solution for organizing your garage is categorizing the items by sport or season in plastic storage bins. We know that they usually end up against a wall, making it hard, especially for the youngest family members, to reach the bottom bins.

Build an easy-to-do wood locker and store them like in a bookcase. Make sure you have access to all of the bins while you use the space wisely. You can build an easy locker in just a weekend, and these individual spaces for each bin will offer an attractive and ingenious way to access them easily.

Use bins in different colors for each category; utilize the sides of the frame to mount accessories like fishing rod holders or hooks for lightweight equipment.

3. Canvas Storage Bags to Protect Decorations

No idea how to store your seasonal decorations in a manner that looks clean and safe?

Well, we got you! Use canvas storage bags for your artificial trees and Halloween monsters in the front yard to keep them away from garage dust and dirt. Another tip is: instead of placing them directly in the bags, tuck a dryer sheet in before zipping to deter the possible critters and insects.

This is not only a safe way to protect them, but in terms of space, it’s a lot easier now to place them in storage areas as the bags compress bulky items. This will free up valuable space and keep your garage organized and clutter-free.

4. Garage Overhead Storage

Dear friend, if you haven’t used this smart solution for maximizing garage space, now’s the right time to do so! Go on and utilize the overlooked garage ceiling to store light or medium-weight items like holiday decorations or camping gear. I can show you how to craft a storage space there:

Secure 2x2s to the ceiling framing by using 3-1/2-in screws. Space them every 2 feet. You can use the storage bins themselves as a guide for spacing the 2x2s. The edges of the bins should just brush against the 2×2 when sliding the bin into place.

The next step is to center and attach 1x4s to the 2×2 using 2-in screws. This framework will provide the perfect support for your bins, as they will be suspended and safe overhead and off the garage floor.
This is a great solution to free up valuable space on the floor area, and it will bring a touch of neatness and easy access to your belongings.

5. Garage Corner Shelves

I know you have shelves in the obvious spots, but have you thought about utilizing the corners?
There is a clever corner shelf unit that you can create using existing studs. This is a fast, easy, and cost-effective solution that will help you organize cans or other small items.
Give it a try.

1: Cut scrap plywood or choose an oriented strand board that fits snugly between the corner studs. 

2. Support them with 1×1 cleats. 

This is all you need to do if you want to have a corner shelf for items like glue, oils, or waxes and maintain easy access to them without cluttering up larger shelves.

6. Sports Equipment Storage

Why not turn your sports kid’s dream of being in the big leagues into reality?
You can build an entryway storage locker that he can go to and find inspiration for his vision right in the family garage!

This is the ultimate solution to give them a dedicated space for their sports gear and keep clutter at bay. Use an open design for the locker to give the desired sports vibe and keep all the things in sight but organized.

7. Good-looking and practical Box Shelves

Another way to organize your storage space in a nice and easy way is to make use of simple box shelves. Use versatile boxes in neutral or wood colors to blend into both elegant and functional spaces. They can fit it in a formal living room as well as in a practical laundry area. They can offer countless uses and configurations.

You should consider storing a few in the washing machine or dryer area to keep detergent or other laundry essentials organized in a neat way. This will also save a lot of floor space. Pretty minimalist boxes are going to add a touch of modern sophistication to either your rooms or your storage spaces.

8. Garage Storage and Seating

If you like to use your garage as a hangout spot too, here is an idea you’re going to love. There is a straightforward and stylish solution for storage that will offer you a bit of comfort too. All you need to do is make some versatile box shelves and some legs so you can create an ideal spot to sit.

Inside, there is going to be ample storage space for your tools or working suits, such as shoes or your jumper. This is a clever setup, as it allows you to keep your garage organized and also offers a convenient sitting area. This is an amazing blending of functionality and simplicity that will offer your place a little bit of coziness.

9. Outdoor storage

We know how it feels when you run out of space in your garage, even if you use it wisely. We just have too many things to store.

Well, sometimes the best remedy for garage clutter is to create new storage space in other areas. Imagine having a compact locker designed for all your garden tools and supplies. It will be a significant relief for your overcrowded garage.

Building a separate garden storage closet will reclaim a lot of valuable garage space, and it will keep your gear neatly organized. You can go for a small, old-fashioned one, or you can even go further and create a bigger storage room.

No matter what option you decide to go for, it will not only free up space, but it will also add a touch of charm to your outdoor area, and your gardening experience will get even more enjoyable.

If you liked our article, we invite you to read Simple Home Renovations You Can Do for Under $1,000

When renovating your home, swapping out the original windows with something more durable and eco-friendly is expected. But how do you dispose of your old windows?

You may wonder why you should repurpose your old windows when they no longer serve their original purpose. Well, rather than disposing of them, you may want to consider some creative uses from Crafty Captain!

Reusing old windows is a great DIY project for those wishing to make their home more personal and continue adding character.

That’s why we’ve come up with a list of 14 creative ways to give these household features a new life, which adds a special touch to your home decor and has the added bonus of promoting sustainability by reducing waste. Continue reading to check ’em out!

Hang it up in the kitchen

An old window, minus the panes, suspended from your kitchen ceiling is excellent for hanging your pots and pans… and maybe even a plant or two!

All you have to do is head to the hardware store and pick up some eye hooks and a chain to do the heavy lifting. You’ll also need to grab some “S” hooks to connect your cookware to the cross bars.

Build a new headboard

Another fantastic way to repurpose an old window is by using it as a headboard. All you have to do is hang it above your bed and watch as it recasts your bedroom into an oasis. You can even give a new color if you’d like.

This is an especially excellent option if you have several windows you want to repurpose because numerous windows next to each other make for a headboard that has that “wow” effect.

Create a new chalkboard

Using chalkboard paint or panels, you can create a surface within one of your old window frames to write on whenever you want. These window chalkboards work skillfully in kitchens where you want to see reminders before you leave the house or even in mudrooms.

Since windows have gridded sections, making a chalkboard like this can serve multiple functions across each grid space.

Create some window box planters

Window repurposing projects don’t have to be limited to your indoor spaces. Build a planter box at the bottom of your old windows and hang it alongside your house or shed.

You can add even a pop of your favorite color and keep your beautiful flowers safe from any deer lurking around.

Create some new picture frames

Repurposing old windows can open up a whole new world of opportunities to showcase your favorite photos and family portraits.

Each panel can serve as its own unique frame, allowing you to effortlessly switch out pictures whenever you want without dealing with traditional frame tabs. All you have to do is stick your pictures onto the window’s surface and let your creativity radiate.

Use your old windows to create a privacy fence in your yard

Another generally popular window usage is makeshift privacy yard fences. Instead of using posts or spindles across your fence, consider placing a window in the middle for a more creative look.

You can paint the glass in an intricate pattern with frosted film for extra privacy or hang them from the ceiling of your porch to add some separation from any neighboring homes.

Create a charming greenhouse

One of the best ways of repurposing your old windows is by using them as the walls for a new greenhouse. It all depends on how many windows you have, but you can either create a mini greenhouse to house a couple of plants or a full-sized oasis.

The open panels will help bring the sun in, while the glass protects the foliage from rain or any other outdoor elements like pests.

Create a new jewelry organizer

Hang your necklaces or any other jewelry on a DIY jewelry organizer made from an old small bathroom window to keep them from getting tangled. This one has the added bonus that it’ll minimize your morning getting-ready routine.

To create this organizer, take out the glass and replace it with some chicken wire. Now, all you have to do is attach hooks to the wooden frame. This clever repurposing idea adds functionality and a touch of vintage charisma to your room.

Make a coffee table out of an old window

If you have some extra-long, double-hung windows with several panels you can give your living room a unique upgrade in the form of a window coffee table! To achieve this project, paint your old window your favorite color and turn it on its side to act as a glass table top.

Then, all you have to do is simply attach it to four legs. Or you can keep the look rustic with wooden farmhouse-style table legs you may find at a thrift store. You can even opt for something more modern with a metal base.

A new coat rack

Keep your grab-and-go items on hand at all times with an eclectic new coat rack. You can replace the old windowpanes with mirrors or even leave the glass intact.

From there, all it takes is a bit of light sanding, a fresh coat of your favorite paint, and a few hooks. From there, your new creative coat rack is ready for you to hang your hat at the door!

Divide your rooms using some old windows

Utilizing a window as a room divider isn’t just for the outdoors. It also provides a compromising balance of space definition and openness in your indoor spaces.

You can have an oversized statement window that hangs by a new or recycled barn door track, allowing your home’s unique personality to shine through. And again, you can decorate it whichever way you see fit… paint, mirrors, the possibilities are endless!

Create a decorative mirror for an empty wall

Consider giving your old window new life as a decorative mirror to hang somewhere in your bathroom, on an empty wall in your living room, or any other spot in your home.

To transform the window into a mirror, all you have to do is remove the transparent glass panels and substitute them with mirrored glass. Besides looking chic, these mirrors can help make your rooms look more inviting and spacious.

Decorated panel with flower hangers

If you were looking forward to repurposing the entire window but you have some broken panes, don’t worry; you can still use it!

Place some background paper on the glass that’s still intact, plus add some flower pots to hang in the empty spots. Voila! You’ve got something genius and stunning. And you can place it wherever you’d like in your home!

Create a new bathroom cabinet

One way to squeeze a bit of extra storage out of a small bathroom is to utilize the often-overlooked space above your toilet. Using the vertical space, you can transform an antique window into the front door of a storage cabinet, and free up some counterspace.

All you have to add to this craft is some cabinet door hinges and latches, and you’re all set. Our friends at Amazon can help you out with this part!

So what do you think of these clever ideas on repurposing those ancient doors? Can you think of any others we might have missed? PLease feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

But don’t leave just yet! Crafty Captain has many more fantastic tips and tricks for its readers. For instance, check out these 6 Simple Home Renovations You Can Do for Under $1,000

Owning instead of renting a house is nice and all, but the problem is that now you have to pay for repairs and other stuff that broke. Which is going to be very costly in the long run. But the good news is that you can learn a few DIY skills that will help you save some money.

Plus, it will be fun once you start doing little projects on your own. Who knows when you’ll end up building a cute bookcase too? Since I am here to be your friend in need, here are the best DIY skills that you’ll need to know always and forever.

1. Replacing faucets

You want to go and take a shower after a long, busy day, and guess what? It started leaking, and the faucet broke too. What do you do? It’s pretty late, so the plumber isn’t available to come to your place to solve the issue.

That’s why you must learn how to replace a broken faucet on your own. It’s not that big of a deal, and it’s one of the best DIY skills every homeowner should know. Plus, you will save a ton of money! All you need is a couple of screwdrivers, pliers, silicone, seal tape, an empty bucket, and a new faucet. It won’t take more than an hour to get the job done.

2. Fix a leaking tap

One of the DIY skills that can save you a lot of money is fixing a leaking tap. As with replacing a broken faucet, fixing a leaking tap is very important. About two years ago, I had this issue myself too, and because I wasn’t able to tackle it on my own, I had to pay a lot of money to get it fixed.

After this event, I wanted to learn to do it, so I watched a couple of videos on YouTube, and guess what? It isn’t that hard, so I am going to explain the process to you. If the leak is coming from the spout of your tap, you will probably need to replace the washer; however, if it is coming from the handle, the O ring is probably in need of changing.

First, use the isolation valve to cut off your water supply. Next, turn on the tap and continue to run it until no more water is released. Remove the tap’s screw, which is often located beneath the hot or cold cover on top of the tap.

To see the interior of the tap, unscrew the remaining valve cover. Take the valve out of the tap by loosening it. After that, replace the worn-out black rubber washer by looking for wear indicators. Replace the ring as well if it is worn.

3. Paint your house’s walls (both exterior and interior)

Another one of the DIY skills that is mandatory for every homeowner is learning how to paint a wall. Painting is more than just putting the paint color of your choice on the wall and dipping the brush into a container. If want to try this for the first time, do it indoors in case the results aren’t what you expected to be will go noticed. I made a great mess last summer when I did my first DIY project of painting the room of my grandchildren. Fortunately, I managed to cover the messy wall with funny drawings, a cute wall lamp, and pictures of the family.

Remember that when you decide to paint your walls make sure you also protect the furniture from the room by covering them with plastic bags and tape.

4. Change a light bulb

When it comes to easy DIY skills, changing a light bulb is probably the first on the list. And you can do it too, without the help of a professional. First of all, you have to switch off the power from the source. Give the lightbulb some time to cool down if it has been on before replacing it. After it cools down, use a step ladder to get to the lightbulb you wish to change.

To remove the lightbulb, twist counter-clockwise, but use caution—they are delicate—and don’t hold on to it too tightly! Then, using the previous steps in reverse, insert the replacement bulb. Restart the power and test the light bulb after you’ve checked that it’s securely inserted into the socket.

5. Install various pieces of furniture

Your garage, bedroom, living room, or even the bathroom may all need extra room for storage, and what else is easier than installing a wall shelf? Compared to other DIY skills mentioned above this one is a bit more complicated but you can manage doing it on your own.

All you need for this DIY skill besides finding the wall studs and selecting the appropriate wall anchors for the shelf’s weight is a couple of screwdrivers, a hammer, and some nails in case you need them.

To learn how to master these DIY skills, it’s essential to have a set of tools at your disposal. I recently came across a power tool combo kit, which includes a 16.8V cordless drill, screwdrivers, a hammer, and other useful items for home repairs. This kit can be a valuable addition to any household seeking to take on DIY projects. This kit is available on Amazon for $69.98. 

6. Unclog blocked drains

One of the DIY skills that saved my life when I couldn’t call the plumber was learning how to unclog blocked drains. For this, you will need a face mask, goggles, a bucket, some protective clothes (or some you won’t feel sorry about in case they get stained), and a pair of gloves. It’s good if you have a screwdriver nearby in case you need to lift the drain cover.

Now, let’s start with the beginning. Use the screwdriver to open the cover. After that, whatever you take out, place in an empty bucket. After inserting the drain rod into the drain, turn it clockwise to clear the obstruction. Up until the rod begins to break through the obstruction, keep twisting and plunging it. Your work is finished if the water begins to drain regularly!

After the water begins to flow out of the drain smoothly, take out your drain rod and use a strong hose or pressure washer to thoroughly clean the drain. This will get rid of any leftover trash.

Although clearing a clogged outdoor drain may seem challenging at first, it’s wise to try solving the problem yourself before contacting professionals. But in case after this procedure, your drain is still blocked, then there might be another problem so I advise you to call the plumber.

7. Sealing drafts

In addition to increasing your energy costs, drafts can cause your house to become too warm in the summer or too cold in the winter. Your home’s windows and doors are the main source of drafts, therefore sealing them up is a valuable skill to have!

The good news is that there are plenty of methods to keep drafts out of your home, depending on where are they located. To seal all the drafts from your home, you can use gap fillers, caulking holes, and weather-stripping.

What are those DIY skills that you master? Tell me in the comments section.

You may also be interested in reading 6 DIY Outdoor Storage Ideas You Can Use Today. 

Did you know these Dollar Store hacks can help you save money AND upgrade any small room or space fast?

It may seem a bit weird to upgrade your small spaces at the Dollar Store, but you should never underestimate this shop. Not only is it a godsend for people who love a good bargain, but if you want to DIY things around the house, the Dollar Store is the best place to shop for supplies. You do not need to search for expensive craft store items or try to scavenge for the best deals; the Dollar Store is right there at your fingertips; you just need to make the most of it!

This is exactly the way in which you can make the most of Dollar Tree items and transform your spaces without having to spend a fortune on them. It happens to most of us, as there is a part of our house that seems to not have enough space for all the things we need to store, and when we do, it either makes the room or space not look good or gives off the impression of everything being cramped. It can also happen that the solution we have found is a bit bigger than the space we have available.

Be it that you want to bring some more life into some older items to transform a room or that you need some new ways to organize that are not going to leave you with less space than you already have, make sure that you make the most of these Dollar Store items! With some minimal DIY crafting, a few dollars, and some imagination, you can transform your spaces in less than a day!

Spruce up your backyard with these amazingly easy DIY projects!

When it comes to our backyards, it can be a bit hard to keep remodeling them every time we have a new idea that could make them even better. However, if you want to spruce them up, there are a lot of great ways in which you can do it, all by making use of great DIY projects that can bring life back into your garden and even help you view it in a new light.

All of the DIY project suggestions we have for you today are going to help you either give a new look to your yard with the items you already have or propose that you make use of your craft skills with simple projects that are bound to transform your space and make it bloom. Some of them are really simple, and others will require you to know your way around some tools, but they are definitely not going to be so hard that you will find them impossible to do.

As long as you have your trusted tool kit, some time on your hands, and a wish to make your backyard into a jewel where you will want to spend the whole warm season relaxing, keep reading to discover the best projects for your garden!

Have any of them caught your eye? Let us know why in the comments.

But when it rains, their house might end up in a complete makeover. You never really know. So when it comes to insights on crafts and DIY projects, I ALWAYS ask them for help. Last week, we discussed fence painting because I could use a makeover on mine.

In the last couple of months, this issue has been bugging me, and I’ve finally decided to take action. So discussing with my own crafty captains, I’ve realized there are many things to learn.

And I’ve decided to write about it, thinking that my friend’s wisdom could help you, too. I found so many fabulous painting ideas, that I’m considering re-painting my fence every couple of months. Here are some of the best fence painting ideas we’ve come up with:

Flowers and butterflies

During summer days, most people prefer spending their time in the backyard, mostly because the days are longer, the weather is warm, and everything is nicer. So it makes all the sense in the world to start wondering what would look best on your fence, especially given that beautiful summer scene that you’re looking forward to!

If you already have your way around arts & crafts, then painting a bunch of beautiful flowers shouldn’t be problematic. If not, there are plenty of DIY painting videos that might help. And if you like how it turns out, you could also paint a little (or big, depending on your preferences) monarch butterfly.

Colorful kid-like painted fencepost

If you’re about to get creative in a fun, entertaining, and unconventional way, then we have the perfect tip for you! Maybe you shouldn’t start with a fancy mural, and instead, you could try creating a splashy painting! If you don’t know where to start, have a look on Pinterest at different styles of kids’ brushes and pick a couple of bright paints.

I can guarantee you that the result will be super different and eye-catching! We simply adore the fun, eclectic look of a colorful fence! It brings so much joy, especially during summer, when bright colors are everywhere you look! Pro tip: If I were you, I would change the design as soon as the cold sets in.

Grass and sky-painted fence with some hooks and decorating items

If you’re 100% decided to give your fence a complete makeover, but you’re not that convinced about your hand-painting skills, don’t worry! First, I want to say that technique is learned in time, so if you’ve just started this hobby, it’s natural to give it a bit of time! It might take longer for you to learn how to paintbrush, and in the meantime, you still have to paint that fence.

In this case, you can combine hand-painting with another craft, and trust me…you will LOVE the results. First, start by painting a simple sky and grass, using your favorite blue and green (make sure they match). Then, gently add various shapes, details, and intricate designs, by attaching hooks to the wood.

Full garden-painted fence

If you are VERY confident about your hand painting skills, but you want to be sure that what you’re going to paint suits your garden, then I have a great suggestion. Do you have plenty of lovely flower beds that you want to emphasize? Then what your fence needs is…more flowers! I suggest you paint a wonderful little floral scene right at the bottom of your fence.

Perhaps, you could even paint the flowers that are already growing in your garden! When your flower beds are blooming, the two will complete each other and make your garden look even richer than before! I love this idea so much, I think I’ll try it myself next year!

Paint-stenciled gardening quote

If you’re more a storyteller than an illustrator, and you’ve always got your words with you, then why ignore them? Believe it or not, that’s not even an issue when it comes to decorative fence painting. So choose your favorite colors (the brighter, the better), and a couple of intricate shapes and details, and start “writing down” your favorite quotes!

It can be ANYTHING: from famous motivating, inspiring, funny quotes, to family quotes that went down in the history, maybe something your grandma said at some point that simply cracks you up. Whatever you choose, it has to make you HAPPY!

Brightly colored fence and a matching shed

If you’re an eclectic painting enthusiast, and you like spilling your bubbly personality into the space you live in, you’ve probably never been the kind of person to shy away from loud colors or any other DIY statement pieces. Well, that’s just great, because I have a wonderful idea for you! There’s this fantastic eye-catching, yet monochrome fence that you can try.

Choose your favorite color, ideally something that makes you constantly joyful and cheers you up, and splashes away your personality! You will have a fun, interesting outdoor aesthetic that contrasts very well with the green plants around you.

Repeating paint-stenciled patterns

Did I manage to get your attention when I started talking about stencils? If you’ve always preferred patterns and repeating visual details over anything else, there’s something you can try! Paint a repeated stencil pattern, preferably something you like.

It can be either a Moroccan pattern (those are my favorites) or a geometric one that will make your fence look more like a mural than a fence! I’m curious to know how it turns out, so don’t shy away from writing down in the comments section everything about the process and how it looks!

Under the sea fence

Even if you’re painting the fence in your yard, this doesn’t mean that it automatically has to look like a summer garden, or that you must go for a yard-inspired theme. One of the best ideas that I’ve ever come across is painting a sea-inspired fence.

If you love the ocean or the sea, well…paint it! So instead of painting flowers, butterflies, and any other backyard animals and scenes, you could choose to make an under-the-sea mural, with various fantastic sea creatures that will instantly brighten up anyone’s day.

Field art

This is another personal favorite. If your home and patio are a bit darker in their decor and color scheme, and (for obvious reasons) nothing enlisted here seems to work with that, you need to go with something else.

Paint your fence on a darker note, then decide on a mysterious but interesting silhouette art with a brighter color. I really like the idea of painting wheat swaying in the wind in a brighter shade, but that’s just me. You paint what you feel goes best with your personality.

Bright Bluebonnets

So do you like the idea of painting various flowers and forms, but you’re not really fond of what I’ve suggested so far? Don’t worry, taste is purely subjective, so keep on looking!

I have one last suggestion to make: I’ve mentioned paintbrushes, stencils, and even color dripping, but I didn’t say anything about sponges! You can paint wonderful flowers using just a sponge! So go ahead and let your creativity flow dictate your next big fence mural!

If you’re glad you read this piece, I have something else you might want to try: 9 Home Upgrades To Make Before Retirement