A list of crafting supplies I get from the trash, from classic things to more niche stuff, and what I usually use them for:
Cardboard. Any kind but especially from food items boxes, shoe boxes, and paper rolls. They're tinner than regular cardboard boxes, which I don't have as much access to (seriously, where are yall getting so many to recycle for crafting?) which makes them perfect building blocks for me. I also use them (not the rolls) as spacers for my flower press, to make TTRPG tokens, bookbinding covers, and lots of other things;
Soda tabs. I mean, I don't think I have to explain what soda tabs can be used for. There's many tutorials on how to use them online. But mainly bracelets and belts and chainmail. The only issue is that it takes a while to collect enough to do anything substantial if you're not a big caffeine or beer enjoyer. I've recruited my friends in this and pick up any I see littered around town (and wash them before use!!!);
There's actually a lot you can do with soda cans themselves! With the caveat of: be careful cutting the metal! You can make watering cans, storage boxes, all kinds of decorations!
Plastic sleeves. Things like binder pockets but from packaging. The beads I get from my local shops come in these kinds of bags —some of which are really thick!— so I try to keep them as intact as possible to reuse later. I use these to create little pockets in my journal. I know people like glueing things to junk journals, but —personally— I prefer being able to take them out when I look back at the memories. They're also good to make photo holders with either cardboard or felt!
Any type of hard plastic container. From cookie tins to gatcha machine prizes. I use them for storage and sorting beads;
Other kinds of packaging gets butchered to steal any cool looking letters for ransom notes type writing;
Corks. These are a new addition to my arsenal. I want to make stamps and I'm going to attemp carving erasers (I have... So many... It's a long story but my god) and sticking them to the corks as handles. It can be a great way to make letter stamps!
Strings. All strings. Like hoodie and sweatpants strings and shoelaces. Anything sturdy and washable. Useful for lots of things m, generally if you need a new string lol but also some kinds of bracelets and chockers can be made with these kids of thicker strings!
General paper can be used if you do collages, yes, BUT I also use it for paper-mache and paper beads. Also, letters;
I might come back to this one if I figure out more stuff, but these are all the things I save as to not have to buy as many supplies.
