Mega Upcycling Challenge

What can we use if we don't have tape, glue, or child-safe scissors listed in the materials?

If you don't have child-safe scissors, have an adult cut or pre-cut pieces from recyclables, and if you lack tape use strong craft glue or slot-and-tab folds in folded cardboard to join pieces following the 'Assemble the main structure' step.

My pieces won't fit together when assembling—what should I check and how can I fix it?

Check your measurements and marked cut lines from the 'Measure the parts' and 'Mark cut lines' steps, trim or re-cut where needed, and reinforce joins with extra tape or folded cardboard as suggested in 'Reinforce any weak spots'.

How can I change the project to suit different ages?

For preschoolers have an adult complete cutting and measuring beforehand so they can focus on assembling and decorating (steps 'Cut out the marked pieces' and 'Decorate your project'), while older kids should do full sketches, measure, cut, add functional handles or hinges, and photograph the final build for DIY.org.

How can we make the finished fort/planter/bird feeder more durable or unique?

Make it more durable by reinforcing seams with folded cardboard and extra glue from the 'Reinforce any weak spots' step, waterproof or seal paint on a planter, add string handles or hinges from 'Add functional parts', and personalize with painted patterns or fabric before photographing to share on DIY.org.