How many times have you opened your tool drawer and found a small cemetery of mismatched screws, leftover bolts and washers whose origin you don’t even remember? Throwing them away seems like a waste, keeping them there even more so. Yet, with a little hot glue and a lot of creativity, these little metal elements can transform into something truly unexpected.
The creative recycling of hardware materials is a trend that has conquered the DIY community in recent years, also thanks to the explosion of industrial aesthetics in furniture and fashion. Objects that once ended up in the bin today become unique, sustainable and even wearable pieces. Ready to find out how?
Industrial style framework
It’s the perfect project for those who love raw, lived-in aesthetics, but it also works surprisingly well in a modern living room. The secret is to play with texture and composition, as in a true material collage.
The result? A unique piece of furniture, at almost zero cost and with a minimal ecological footprint.
Decorative lettering with screws
Do you have screws that are no longer used, perhaps rusty or with damaged heads? Don’t throw them away. By gluing them to each other you can create three-dimensional decorative writings to hang on the wall: names, inspiring words, initials. It is an idea that is experiencing a new wave of popularity on social media, especially in minimalist and industrial home decor contexts.
DIY Christmas decorations
Washers are perhaps the most versatile items of all when it comes to creative recycling. Their circular shape makes them perfect for creating snowflakes to hang on the Christmas tree: just glue them on top of each other with hot glue and add a ribbon to hang them. Simple, quick and with a truly spectacular final effect.
Another popular variation is to alternate nails and screws around a central washer for a more elaborate, three-dimensional snowflake. Glue the elements to one side of the washer with hot glue, work in symmetrical patterns and finally add a ribbon. The result has that artisanal and sustainable charm that is increasingly popular, even as a last minute gift idea.
Earrings with washers
Yes, you read that right. Washers can become absolutely wearable DIY earrings, especially if combined with an urban or industrial style. 5 are enough for each earring: glue 4 around a central washer and add a nun with ring. The result is minimal, geometric and surprisingly chic.
Necklace with washers or bolts
The next step? A handmade necklace with washers, to match with the earrings for a coordinated look and everything to show off. The washers can be left natural for a raw effect, or painted or patinated for a more personal touch. In the tutorial below you will find all the steps.
Decorative heart
With a mix of washers, bolts, screws and nuts you can assemble a decorative heart to hang in your home or give as a gift to someone special. The advice is to glue the various elements onto a rigid support – thick cardboard, plywood or MDF – to guarantee stability to the composition. A handmade gift with a green soul: it’s difficult to do better.
