e.com for instructions on how you and your kids can make adorable magnetic photo frames out of jar lids and self-hardening clay!
36. Wire hangers
In truth, wire hangers are one of the most under-appreciated tools for do-it-yourselfers. They can be cut and shaped into just about anything including key rings, clips, stands, guy lines, and hooks for unclogging drains.
37. Light bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs can also be repurposed. You can make homemade holiday ornaments, make a hanging planter, a funky vase, a terrarium and an assortment of other crafts. Check out this website for ideas.
38. Bacon grease
Did you know that bacon grease can be used for splinter removal? Simply apply a small amount of grease to the splinter, and place a band-aid over it. Let it sit for a few hours, or even overnight, and youll find that your skin has softened up enough to loosen the splinter. There are also several recipes for using bacon fat to make soap, and you can even use it to make a candle. Pour the bacon grease in a cup or can, and place a wick inside. Give the grease a few minutes to soak into the wick, and then place it in the fridge until it solidifies. Viola! You now have the best smelling candle that money didnt buy.
39. Cell phones
Cell phones can be taken apart and used for survival uses, such as signal mirrors, a compass and even a knife. With newer models being regularly marketed every few months, outdated personal devices like cell phones and music players are often stockpiled into storage after being replaced. Consider donating an older phone to a good cause such as Cell Phones for Soldiers or Hopeline (for victims of domestic violence).
40. Computer ink cartridges
There isnt too much you can do with these, but I did find they can be made into a lamp. Also, many retailers will offer you a discount if you bring in your old cartridge for recycling, or provide recycling bins for drop off.
41. Torn or ripped clothing
Start a rag bag and save your clothing scraps for quilting; jeans make nifty quilts (check senior centers in your area if you dont sew yourself)
42. Busted motors
Essentially any motor with a copper wire can be converted into an energy producer. You could easily convert your washing machine into windmill to make power. This is an essential skill to have for surviving a long term emergency.
43. Stationary bikes
Did you ever think that stationary bikes could help to promote your self-sustainability? Attaching your wheat grinder to your stationary bike by a pulley will help you put the pedal to the metal and grind grains more efficiently. Here are few additional ways to produce energy using a bicycle.
44. Worn toothbrushes
These are great to scrub clothing stains out with or to use as grout cleaners for the floor.
45. Packing peanuts
Save these little guys and reuse them for future packages. As well, you can use them in your container gardening. Put in the bottom of pots below the dirt for drainage (secure in a tied-off leg of panty hose so you can separate them from the dirt later).
46. Wine and beer bottles
You can save so much money by saving these up and making your own spirits. All you need to do is purchase corks or bottle tops from Amazon and youre ready to go!
47. Peanut butter lids
These can be fashioned into an old fashioned game of checkers! Blue and red are perfect pieces! How fun would this be?
48. Plastic coffee cans
These all-purpose containers are great for storing miscellaneous items, holding kitchen scraps for the compost pile, or you can store your bulk shelf stable foods in them too. As well, you can store bug out items for the vehicle or use them outside as a rain gage. You can also use them to scatter seeds. Poke holes in the bottom and use it to scatter seeds in the garden.
49. Popsicle sticks
These make great garden markers or to stake plants with. As well, you can easily wash them and make your own homemade popsicles. They can also be used for bookmarks or kid-friendly food skewers. Popsicle sticks can also serve medicinal purposes too. Simply add a few drops of essential oil (peppermint, euca