Re-use Items for Gifts... Sign of the Times?

In my crafts, I often re-use items that others might throw out. It's the ultimate recycle, make something new from something old. 

This year it seems to be the theme for many of the groups I am involved in online. People are finding it difficult to produce extra money for gifts in these economic times, so their creative instincts are sparked. Here are a few things I have made over the years from re-used items. 

Most recently I made a purse for my daughter from a tie she gave her dad, many, many years ago. It was fun, easy and quick and I think it is cute, too. (Wish I could embed the photos within the blog; it's the purse with the Coca-Cola bears on it.)

I made two small quilts from old blue jeans and some flannel, one for each of my kids. My daughter wanted something to take to the Twins games at the outdoor stadium. I posted photos of the fronts and backs of each. The colorful side shows the flannel fabric.

I made a quilt from my daughter's softball T-shirts. I added photos of her playing softball and even added parts of some of the hats she wore. Kindergarten through 12th grade softball.

I made a bag for myself from a jacket my mom no longer wanted. (Black with embroidered flowers.)

A tiny purse was made out of an Altoids tin.

I'm still working on my purse made from potato chip bags. It's my long car trip project. Here is a link to a finished purse.

There are many items in your own home that you could re-use. 

Sometimes it becomes even better with the second use, but even if it isn't something you like, you still have the fun of creating and you've lost nothing.