Since it can often be purchased for just a few dollars a bottle, it’s not surprising that most women have a large collection of nail polish. However, if you regret a few of those impulse buys, resist the urge to toss them in the trash. Shades that don’t quite work for your mani-pedi can easily be used to complete a wide range of clever DIY projects.
Marbled Mugs
These mugs look like they were purchased from an upscale boutique, but they’re actually inexpensive white ceramic decorated with bright nail polish colors. Learn how to make some for yourself at DIY Candy.
Marbled Christmas Tree Ornaments
The technique used for this project is similar to that of the marbled mugs. These ornaments make excellent handmade gifts for family and friends, as well as pretty decorations for your Christmas tree. Get the full instructions at Baby Loving Mama.
Nail Polish Pendants
If you’re tired of wearing glittery nail polish on your nails, try using your favorite glittery shades to make sparkly DIY pendant necklaces. Fluid Motion explains how to complete this easy DIY Project.
Painted Chain Earrings
Paint basic metal chains with your favorite nail polish colors, then join them to French ear wires using jump rings and needle nose pliers to create statement earrings that are sure to become a new favorite in your jewelry collection. Head over to A Splendid Assemblage to learn more.
Nail Polish Bobby Pin Flowers
Decorate plain bobby pins with flowers made from wire and your favorite color of nail polish. If you don’t wear bobby pins, you can add the flowers to rings, headbands, or home decor projects. Wonderful DIY‘s tutorial has the details.
Decorated Ear Buds
Paint a rainbow design on inexpensive ear buds to create a fashionable way to listen to you favorite tunes. Creme de la Craft explains how.
Sparkly Magnets
Give your refrigerator a modern update with sparkly magnets made from bold shades of nail polish and large clear marbles. Creative Me Inspired You has the complete instructions. (These would also make fun DIY gifts if you stored them in a decorated Altoid tin.)
Nail Polish Bookmarks
Clear glass gems decorated with nail polish designs and attached to jumbo paper clips create cute bookmarks that make sure you’ll never lose your place in your favorite novel again! Inspire-Create shows you how to complete this easy DIY project.
Nail Polish Coasters
Inner Child Fun recommends making these nail polish coasters with your kids, but the project is so fun that you might want to make a few yourself too. Just don’t forget to add a sealant to protect your design when you’re finished!
Play Makeup for Children
Upcycle your empty eye shadow and blush compacts by turning them into play makeup for your favorite toddler or preschooler. Head over to Kerrafty Creations to learn more about this clever way to use up unwanted nail polish colors.
