Yes, you read that correctly. Who knew you could reuse pencil shaves, right? The next thing we’ll learn is that you can recycle toenail clippings. Haha. Just kidding! That’s super gross.
But, honestly, as DIY and upcycling trends continue to grow, this really doesn’t shock me. So before you go dumping that pencil sharpener out, read this!
1. Compost
Let’s be real, what can you not add to compost?… Don’t answer that. It’s more of a sarcastic rhetorical question than anything. I know there are plenty of things you should not add to compost.
But pencil shaves actually provide carbon to the compost pile. And a compost pile needs carbon to feed the microorganisms that are breaking down the organic matter to make compost. Pretty cool, huh?!
2. Bedding for Gerbils or other Rodent Pets
Awww, isn’t this cute. Who could forget our furry friends?! Rats, guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils, hamsters…they LOVE this stuff! So, remember them when it comes time to empty out that pencil sharpener. Plus, money saver…hello!
3. Mulch/Topsoil
Not only do pencil shaves offer a great alternative to topsoil but it also kind of looks better, to me anyway. Plus, if you’re really artsy-fartsy, your guests will appreciate this little detail.
Using pencil shaves on top of the soil that your plant is planted in can help retain moisture and help eliminate weeds. Your pencil shaves are most likely from pencils made from cedar wood that also can keep certain insects away, like spiders and ants.
4. Use it in Art
If you have big chunks of pencil shaves you can totally get creative and glue it into art. Use it for bark on trees, mosaic designs, creating creature silhouette’s, you name it.
5. Fire Starter
This one might come as a “Duh”. But I bet you didn’t think of it until I said it, huh? Mmmhmm.
Pencil shaves are fantastic for starting fires! With that said, it’s probably best to store them away in a plastic bag away from anything flammable or heat source.
Let us know in the comments below if you have any other uses for pencil shaves.
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Who’s EconoCrafts? EconoCrafts is a manufacturer of unique and exciting arts and crafts kits and hobby supplies. They sell to Schools, After-School, Camps, Recreation Centers, Nursing Homes, Hospitals, Government Agencies, and crafters all over the world. From the classroom to your home, for a party to a DIY project, EconoCrafts has everything you need to keep you creatively entertained.
Written by: Amanda Kearns
Amanda attended Columbia College Chicago where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. She happily accepted a job in the sunshine state of Florida, where she worked for many years blogging, editing, and managing mostly legal content. She now resides in South Carolina with her beautiful son and loving husband.
In her free time, Amanda loves to stay active whether it be at the gym, hiking, or throwing around a baseball. She’s also a big DIYer. In fact, much of the artwork and design elements in her house were created by her and she’s even made some of her own clothes!
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