Trashy Crafter - Jewelry Made from Upcycled Books & Sheet Music

Katie received a product at no cost for review purposes. Change-Diapers was not otherwise compensated for this post, and all opinions are Katie’s. Trashy Crafter was created in July of 2011 when mother/daughter duo Kim and Helen were at a local thrift store and saw old, damaged books being thrown away. Ever since then, they have been gathering books that were headed to the trash to give them a new purpose. So Kim remembered back to 3rd grade when she was taught how to make paper beads. Once she made some bracelets, she wore them around and got so many compliments, she decided she would make them for others to wear as well.

There is a lot of work that goes into making one piece of jewelry. First they have to gather the books from thrift stores, libraries, garage sales or dumpsters. Sometimes they even get books donated to them as well. The space beads are either donated, from garage sales or swap meets. Once they pick a book to turn into beads, they cut it up into strips and hand-roll each one. Then it’s coated three times for protection and to make sure it’s sturdy. Once that process is complete, they create the bracelets, necklaces, earrings and lanyards. This sounds like a fun part of the process because it’s a really creative part. They get to match colors and patterns together to create a unique one of a kind piece of jewelry for someone to wear. Each piece of jewelry is packaged with 100% handmade and recycled map envelopes. It’s packaged then tied with a bow and includes a business card.

I received a Music Paper Bead Bracelet Set for the review. The spacer beads are a very pretty light blue color and go really well with the black and white music paper. I love wearing them around and getting compliments on them. They really are a unique piece of jewelry. I like how tough the paper beads are also. We know that having young kids, jewelry can easily get broken. Even with my little one constantly grabbing at the bracelets, they’ve held up wonderfully! These would make a wonderful present. You could get custom jewelry made out of your daughter’s favorite book for her birthday. I just love the idea of giving these as gifts!

Each bracelet set is 100% recycled and one of a kind. They’re made with strong stretch cord and fits the average wrist, which is 7-8 inches. You can easily request a smaller or larger size if you need for a small fee. The book beads are water resistant with light splashes, but are not water proof. So it’s not recommended to wear them swimming or in the shower.
If you don’t see something in the shop you like, no worries, they do custom orders! So if there’s a book you love from your childhood or a special book (or paper) that has sentimental value, they can turn it into a lovely piece of jewelry for you to wear.

There are so many adorable pieces of jewelry to choose from! Head on over to TrashyCrafter’s Etsy shop to check it out.