10 Reuse Ideas for CDs and DVDs

Making the switch to digital copy for your entertainment needs can leave you with piles of old CDs, DVDs and cases that you just aren’t sure what to do with. From elegant wall art to fashion-forward jewelry, here are 10 eclectic and eco-friendly uses for all your old CDs and DVDs.

Craft #1: Cut your old CDs and DVDs into pieces and use them to glitz up anything - from picture frames to flower pots to this funky mosaic mirror. Photo: Ada B./Cut Out and Keep

1. Mosaic mirror

Your old CDs and DVDs can be cut up and used to add some sparkle to almost anything. After you’ve cut your discs into small pieces, use them to create a mosaic pattern on drab-looking picture frames, flower pots or mirrors.

Not sure how to get started? Check out this handy mosaic mirror tutorial from Cut Out and Keep contributor Days. The crafty blogger simply cut her discs into square-shaped pieces and attached them in a solid pattern to turn a discount-store mirror into a fun and functional decor piece. To tone down the glitz a bit, try a partial mosaic like this one from Cut Out and Keep contributor Ada B.

2. Jazzed-up jewelry

Craving a bit of bling but don’t have the cash for diamonds? Ditch the faux gems, and create flashy and fab jewelry from your old CDs and DVDs instead. Making jewelry from trash may sound like a challenge, but it’s way easier than you’d think. This simple tutorial from Sew and So blogger and Crafting a Greener World contributor Becky Haas will have you looking like a million bucks in no time.

3. DVD case purse

If you’re looking for a conversation-starting clutch for your next night on the town, skip the thrift store dollar bin-diving and make your own from an old DVD case. Craftzine contributor Samantha Baldwin used the case from one of her favorite movies to create a book clutch inspired by the bag Natalie Portman rocked at the premier of Black Swan.

While Portman’s clutch retailed for more than $1,200, yours will be virtually free! All you’ll need is an old DVD case, a round mirror, some fabric and Baldwin’s tutorial to look like a star this Friday night.