Shovels are often thought of as a tool used solely for digging and moving dirt. However, it’s amazing to see just how versatile these tools can be when it comes to crafting. With a little creativity, a shovel can be transformed into a beautiful, functional piece of decor that can be enjoyed for years to come.
In this roundup, we will showcase the many different crafts that can be made using shovels. From garden art and birdfeeders, to rustic furniture and planters, the possibilities are truly endless. Some of these tutorials call for plastic shovels that can be found at the dollar store, but metal garden shovels and upcycled thrift store shovels can be used as well. In fact, if you’re looking to add an extra touch of rustic charm to your projects, a recycled shovel with some rust on it would be perfect!
One project that particularly caught our eye was the one that utilized upcycled shovel handles. We’ve all been there – digging out a root system only to have our shovel break in half. Rather than throwing it away, why not put it to good use by transforming it into a piece of art? This type of project is not only a great way to use up old shovels, but it also gives new life to something that would otherwise go to waste.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, these tutorials are a great way to get your creative juices flowing. So why not give one of these shovel projects a try? With a little imagination and some simple supplies, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece that will be the envy of your friends and family.
So let’s dive in and see what we can create with these humble tools. From whimsical garden art to functional home decor, the possibilities are truly endless. Who would have thought that such a simple tool could be used to create so many different and beautiful things? We hope that this roundup will inspire you to give it a try and make something special of your own.
DIY Snowman Shovel Porch Decor — CraftBits.com
DIY Dollar Tree Rustic Shovels » Mother Thyme
DIY Dollar Tree Toy Snow Shovel
Shovel Head Art for the Garden – Organized Clutter
Dollartree Hack – Farmhouse Porch Numbers – Home and Garden
Rustic Shovel Handle Display Tray – Organized Clutter
Easy DIY Farmhouse Shovel Wreath for Your Door
Primitive Country Thrifted Shovel Makeover with Old Sign Stencils – Organized Clutter
Another great reason to use upcycled shovels is they are perfect for decorating the porch, inexpensive and they are weatherproof (depending on the paints you use)
For the snowman project, you will need the following supplies to be able to make it.
snow shovel
, white paint, black paint, orange paint, 2″ paint brush, .5″ paint brush, 1″ round sponge brush, red ribbon or fabric strip.
To clean rust off an old shovel, you can follow these steps:
Sand the rust: Use a sandpaper with a medium grit to remove the rust and any loose paint. Sand until you reach the bare metal surface.
Apply a rust remover: Spray or brush on a commercial rust remover and let it sit for the recommended time. The rust should start to dissolve, and you can then scrub it off using steel wool or a stiff-bristled brush.
Wash the shovel: Rinse the shovel thoroughly to remove any residue from the rust remover. If necessary, use a wire brush to remove any remaining rust.
Dry the shovel: Allow the shovel to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Prime and paint the shovel: After the shovel has dried, apply a rust-inhibiting primer to the surface to help prevent future rust. Allow the primer to dry, then paint the shovel with the desired color.
Note: You can also use other methods such as using vinegar, baking soda or a wire brush to remove rust. Be sure to always wear gloves and protective eyewear when cleaning and sanding an old shovel.
