Who says leftover paper is worthless? With a little creativity and the right techniques, we can breathe new life into discarded materials, transforming them into artistic expressions while reducing waste and helping the planet.

At the SX IDEA LAB zone during SUSTAINABILITY EXPO 2024 (SX2024) at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on September 27, 2024, renowned illustrator Pang – Pattreeda Prasarnthong invited attendees to appreciate the beauty of recycled materials in a hands-on workshop titled “When Scrap is Not Crap – The Fun of Paper Scraps at SX2024.” The session focused on repurposing used paper into imaginative, one-of-a-kind works of art.

Discovering Joy in Scraps

Before the creative work began, Pang spoke to the participants about the goal of the workshop: to encourage everyone to see the joy in paper scraps and transform what we normally throw away into something useful and meaningful. She urged the audience to take a second look at everyday waste—scraps from home or office, candy wrappers, or even packaging that would otherwise go in the bin. With a shift in perspective, these materials could become art.

In this session, Pang guided participants to create unique floral stickers from used paper—each one a one-of-a-kind creation.

How to Make a Simple Hibiscus Sticker from Paper Scraps

1. Cut six paper circles in your favorite color.

2. Add details by cutting small pieces for the flower’s stamen and leaves.

3. Glue the circles together to form a basic flower shape.

4. Decorate by adding the stamen and leaves to the flower.

5. Finish by placing the flower on wax paper and covering it with clear tape. Voilà! A one-of-a-kind sticker made from paper scraps—ready to decorate your belongings.

Crafting with Joy and Imagination

The atmosphere at the workshop was vibrant and colorful, as participants dove into their creations, each reflecting their own unique style. Pang emphasized that the ideas and techniques shared can be adapted for countless other projects—from animals to trees. The choice of paper and materials is entirely up to the creator’s taste, imagination, and what’s available nearby. Leaves don’t have to be green, and flowers don’t need to be pink.

The key message Pang highlighted was that art allows us to reconnect with ourselves, especially in today’s social media-driven world. All it takes is paper, scissors, and glue—and we can create something beautiful and soothing for the soul.