I sometimes just toss used envelopes into the recycling bin, but there’s much more you can do with them!

Take a look at the DIY bookmark idea via d. Sharp Journal. If you love to customize, this simple, yet practical project is for you.

And Design Sponge featured Inside Out Security Envelopes. Pretty stuff!

Also utterly fascinating is the FedEx Envelope Reusable Lunch Bag (pictured below) via Sternlab.

Other quick envelope reuse tips:

If you remove any glue and film, you can shred the rest of the envelope and use if for stuffing pet toys or beds. These shreds are also useful as packing material when moving.

Reuse junk mail envelopes to send lunch money to school with the kids.

Affix a new label and use it to mail something.

Do you have any envelope crafts or reuse ideas to share?

Image via Sternlab (Creative Commons License).

Earlier today, I unloaded my fun Tea Tag Confetti post. You thought it was fun, right?

Here’s a project that requires a little glue, but it’s lovely for a tea sipper.

Simple directions for Tea Tag Bookmark:

-After selecting your favorite tags, arrange in pattern. I used six tags.
-Apply small amounts of glue to bottom tips of tags and begin building the bookmark.
-Wipe away any excess glue on both sides of bookmark.
-Tie a ribbon or a used tea string to the top.
-Let rest between magazine pages, layered with books.
-After just minutes, enjoy your new junk creation!

I chose a stained tea string for a bit more character, but you may want to doll yours up with a coordinating ribbon.

Is this something you would enjoy?

Image via Peggy Rowland.