Reduce, reuse, recycle.

If you’ve grown up in the United States over the past few decades, chances are that you know that mantra all too well and with good reason. As we continue to move towards greener and more sustainable economies, the effectiveness with which we apply these three basic pillars of eco-friendliness and sustainability is going to make a big impact on everything from international trade to governmental policy to our everyday lives.

Whether or not it is smart for you to reduce the amount of painting tools and supplies you buy, we can all stand to reuse and recycle a bit more. Not only will this help the environment but it’s just economic common sense. Reusing and recycling painting tools saves you from having to purchase more in the future. Besides, repurposing your old paint cans and tools can help you unlock your creative side!

Reusing Old Paint Brushes

Your old paintbrushes have been through the wars with you. They’ve seen many a paint job and have always been a reliable set. Unfortunately, all of that use has finally begun to take their toll as the brushes have become hard and don’t wash out the same way that they used to. It appears to be the end.

However, it doesn’t have to be.

Exposure to hot water and soap for a long stretch of time is still the best way to deal with cases of brushes hardening due to paint. If this fails, you may want to turn to other substances such as hot vinegar or fabric softener.

Paintbrush Craft Ideas

If it really is the end for your paint brushes as paint brushes, it doesn’t have to be the end of their usefulness. If you’re a particularly crafty, Etsy-loving soul, you might consider using those old paintbrushes for some arts-and-crafts work. For example, paintbrushes can also be fashioned into neat wooden figurines, which can make for a fun activity for kids.

Paint Can Ideas

However you choose to reuse your old paintbrushes, at least they aren’t too obtrusive and don’t take up too much room. Paint cans, on the other hand, can do both, making them a much bigger hassle. There is thus even more incentive to look into ways of recycling these.

Thankfully, there are a whole host of useful and creative ways to reuse paint cans, including:

• Lanterns: Punch a few holes in your cans, place a candle in there, and you have an instant neat and unique source of ambient light.
• Planters: If you’ve got a green thumb, you can repurpose your old paint cans into planters.
• Storage Space: Cut off the top, attach the cans to the wall, and you have a series of small storage spaces ready for use, perfect for holding small items such as, say, paint supplies.
• Circular Canvas: If you’re an artistic soul, you might consider painting those old paint lids and hanging them up as neat circular paintings.
• Bird Feeders: Cut a few holes in the side, attach it to the appropriate area, put some bird feed in, and presto.

Show off your creativity in an eco-friendly way by reusing paint cans and brushes.