Don't Toss Your Empty Pizza Boxes: Use Them To Craft A Rustic-Style Wreath

To recycle or not to recycle — that's the question with pizza boxes (one of the things you're probably recycling wrong, in fact). And while the cardboard is technically recyclable, many municipalities don't accept the greasy, cheesy boxes in recycling programs. Instead, use the sturdy cardboard for DIY projects, like a stunning wreath shared on the LTS Handmade YouTube channel. The creator cuts a wreath shape from a pizza box lid, covers it in twine, and adds fabric and burlap floral accents along the bottom.

Since the form for the wreath is made from the pizza box you already have, you're keeping the costs low and finding a good use for at least some of the cardboard. You can use a pan lid or another large, round object around the house to trace for the shape. If you already have rope or thick twine, burlap, and fabric in your craft supply stash, you could make this decor piece for free. Look for the supplies at the thrift store or garage sales before buying new if you're looking for a low-cost, eco-friendly project.

The finished product is perfect rustic decor idea because of the materials used in the DIY. Burlap and twine fit the neutral, warm tones and rich textures that are huge in rustic decor. It's a perfect decorative touch for your living room or other indoor spaces. You can use it on a front door if it's covered, but the weather elements could ruin the wreath with direct exposure.

Trace a large circle for the outer edge and a slightly smaller circle inside for the center cutout — the size of the inner and outer circles are flexible, depending on the look you want. Or, cut the cardboard into an oval, square, or rectangular shape. Regardless of the shape, draw a line straight across along the bottom inner circle to create extra cardboard surface for the flowers. Cut out the inner and outer circles — the inside will look like a circle with a flat bottom edge.

In the inspiration project, the creator glues thin rope along the circle the long way, so it follows the curve to create long rows. Align each row with the previous to completely cover the cardboard. She also leaves the lower portion where you attaches the flowers plain, but you can cover it in twine if you prefer. For extra depth and more texture, cover the cardboard with thicker rope first. Then, do a second layer of a thinner rope between the first rows. Another option is to wrap the rope around the cardboard the other direction, creating short, horizontal passes that completely surround the cardboard. This option also adds thickness to the piece. 

To finish up this DIY minimalist wreath for your home, add rolled fabric flowers, made by twisting and rolling strips of fabric. The original also features leaves cut from burlap with twine glued around the edges for shaping. Little pieces of lace and faux pearls soften the look. An alternative is simply gluing on faux or dried flowers that fit the rustic vibes. Or, skip the flowers completely in favor of other earthy materials, like burlap bows, pine cones, or dried fruit.