Crafty Ways to Upcycle Old Media
After people digitize their memories, they often wonder what to do with their old media. Put them in storage? Throw them away? How about finding a creative way to reuse them?
In this post, we’ll share two unique ways to transform your slides and photos into gifts, décor, and keepsakes that tell a story. Your best craft supplies might just be your favorite memories.
Heads up! These crafts can permanently alter your original materials. It’s important to consider these questions before reaching for a pair of scissors…
- Have I digitized my memories? Digitizing preserves your memories and ensures there is always a high-quality backup. After creating a digital archive, you can confidently transform your old media into collages, jewelry, or decorations.
- Are they stored in local and cloud storage? USB flash drives are a hands-on way to store and share files. However, flash drives are practical but not indestructible. Cloud storage allows one to view their files from anywhere with internet access — protecting them from accidental misplacement or disasters like floods and fires. A hybrid approach to storage is recommended, as it safeguards your memories for anything life throws your way.
Slide Suncatcher
Materials:
- (5) Slides (More or Less – Your Choice!)
- (16) Jump Rings (15 – 25mm in Diameter)
- (1) O-Ring (1.5″ in Diameter)
- (2) Pairs of Pliers
- Drill
- Beads (Optional)
Disclaimer: Memories Renewed does not earn commission from linked products.
1. On each slide, mark the middle of the top and bottom margins with a pencil. Try to keep your markings centered. This is where you will drill the holes.
2. Drill holes through the top and bottom markings on each slide. Make sure the drill gauge is wide enough for your jump rings to link through.
3. Attach your jump rings to each hole. You will need to open and close each jump ring. Grab your (2) pairs of pliers. Grip each side of the jump ring’s opening. Twist one side toward you and the other away from you.
Pro Tip: Twist the jump rings apart – don’t pull! This technique makes closing the jump rings easier.
4. Thread your beads onto new jump rings individually. Then, use the beaded jump rings to connect the slides together.
5. On the bottom slide, attach a larger bead with a jump ring. This step is optional, but it’s a great way to add extra dazzle.
6. On the top slide, attach the 1.5″ O-ring. This is where your suncatcher will hang from.
Ta-dah! You made a vintage suncatcher. These can be displayed on windows, below plant hangers, or anywhere the sun shines.
Photo Vase
Materials:
- Photo
- Vase or Jar
- Mod Podge® Dishwasher Safe (Gloss)
- Foam Sponge (or Paint Brush)
- Plate (or any clean surface you’re okay with dirtying)
2. Using a foam sponge or paint brush, spread an even coat of Mod Podge® over the front of your photo.
Disclaimer: This method works best with thin paper. If your photo is mounted to cardstock, you can print a copy from any standard printer. If the photo is too big, you can print a smaller copy to fit your vase (as seen in this example).
3. Paste the photo to the inside of your vase with the image facing the glass. Apply gentle pressure to remove air bubbles. Coat another layer of Mod Podge® over the back of the photo to seal it.
4. Wipe away excess Mod Podge® with a damp paper towel. Try to avoid touching the photo while cleaning the surrounding glass.
6. Allow the Mod Podge® to dry for at least 24 hours (may take longer in humid environments). Mod Podge® is water resistant, not waterproof. This technique is ideal for displaying dry decorations like faux flowers.
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