How to Recycle and Reuse CD/DVD Jewel Cases

Transform a CD jewel case into a calendar stand - Stefanie Gabrych Fraser
Transform a CD jewel case into a calendar stand - Stefanie Gabrych Fraser
CD/DVD jewel cases are made of non-biodegradable materials and will not decompose in a landfill. Destruction by burning is toxic to the environment.

It's best then to find ways to recycle empty CD/DVD jewel cases. Offer them free to others on sites such as Freecycle, Gumtree, or Craigslist. Schools and libraries might also take them.

CREATIVE WAYS TO RECYCLE CD/DVD JEWEL CASES

Recycling and reusing empty jewel cases in creative ways is also an option. Transform a case into a refillable desk calendar stand or a stand-up photo frame. What about an arrangement of favourite family photos inside empty jewel cases to create an attractive wall display?

Note: If you are using printed photographs, scan these to the appropriate sizes and then print out. If the photos are already digitized, change the size before printing as mentioned below.

HOW TO MAKE A STAND-UP JEWEL CASE PHOTO FRAME

This is a novel way to recycle a jewel case and display a favourite photograph.

Materials and Tools

  • Photos
  • CD/DVD jewel cases
  • Card stock or matte photo paper
  • Double-sided tape
  • Scissors
  • Scanner

Instructions

  1. Scan and print the photo on cardstock and cut the photo into a 3" circle.
  2. Next, attach the photo inside the jewel case with double-sided tape.
  3. Carefully flip the front of the case back so that the frame stands up.

HOW TO MAKE A JEWEL CASE WALL PHOTO DISPLAY

Turn a blah wall into a charming mini gallery with an arrangement of photos displayed inside empty jewel cases. Opening the jewel cases and inserting new photos can easily change the photo selection.

Materials and Tools

  • Photos
  • CD/DVD jewel cases
  • Card stock or matte photo paper
  • Double-sided tape
  • Scissors
  • Scanner

Instructions

Note: For a more cohesive look to a wall display, pick photos with a similar theme, such as beach photos, close-up portraits, etc. For the display, use 9, 16, or 25 photos to create a grid.

  1. Scan and/or print out the photos on cardstock and then cut each photo to measure 4 ¾-inch x 4 ¾-inch.
  2. Place each photo into a jewel case and then determine the nicest arrangement of them.
  3. Arrange the photos on a flat service such as a table or the floor to find the most pleasing arrangement before installing them on the wall.
  4. Add small pieces of the double-sided tape to the back of the case and adhere each one in its spot.

HOW TO MAKE A JEWEL CASE CALENDAR STAND

Make an attractive desktop calendar stand from an empty jewel case. Check the Internet for free calendar templates or use the one mentioned below.

Material and Tools

  • CD/DVD jewel cases
  • Card stock or matte photo paper
  • Double-sided tape
  • Scissors
  • Scanner
  • Photos (optional)
  • Calendar (from an online template)

Instructions

  1. Use the Big Huge Labs calendar template to create a calendar.
  2. Print out the calendar (ensuring that it measures 4 ¾-inch x 4 ¾-inch) on cardstock or heavy matte photo paper.
  3. Cut out and insert the printed calendar into the jewel case.
  4. Carefully flip the front of the case back so that the frame stands up.

Making the photo frames and the desktop calendar stand is a great project for the kids and shows them the possibilities of recycling. It's also a very economical way to create personalized gifts for all kinds of occasions.

For more ways to recycle CD/DVD jewel case, check out Best Green Home Tips.

Stefanie Gabrych Fraser, Stefanie Gabrych Fraser

Stefanie Gabrych Fraser - Connecting people, ideas and resources.

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