are you recycling everything that is recyclable?

If you have old scrap metal lying around, than you may have something that is worth money to recyclers and salvage dealers at places like Full Circle Recycling. There are, however, some other options for your unwanted metal including some fun, easy projects for the home.

Consider these great ways to recycle your unwanted scrap metals:

1. Horse-shoes.

A great find at a thrift store or yard sale is an old horse-shoe. These are great for creating racks, on a wall or in the garage, for a number of items and tools. Horse shoes can be welded to form gates, and bent to make heart-shapes or words, too.

2. Old hub-caps.

Hub-caps are perfect for creating distinctive yard art, either mounted to the side of an exterior wall or that are integrated with your yard and garden space. Secure these to a length of metal pipe to create shiny bird baths and feeders that can be staked into the ground. Use these as the center of a sunburst painted on a wall of the garage for a bright touch.

3. Metal cookware.

Got any old metal pots and plans laying around? Re-purpose these into clever planters, that can be drilled with holes for drainage or that might hold a couple inches of aggregate in the bottom. For a plant that will last forever, paint rocks green and add white detailing to resemble cacti; fill the pot with pebbles or stones and nest the rocks inside to replicate the green cactus plants.

4. Metal pipes and tubing.

Metal piping and tubing is frequently sought after by salvage dealers, but you can use it to make low-cost shelving or railings for areas around your home or patio. Another great way to recycle metal pipes is to use them as garden stakes and markers. Simply paint or write the name of the plant along the side and burrow them a few inches into the ground, but be sure the pipes don't contain lead or pewter, which can be toxic.

5. Miscellaneous metal scraps.

Create some cool wall hangings or yard "totems" using your old metal findings and implements. These can be glued together with epoxy, or drill small holes in each piece and wire one to another. Some items that make creative projects include the following:

• Old tools

• Miscellaneous keys

• Door-knobs

• Hardware, such as hooks and latches

Before you make a trip to the scrap metal dealer or dump, consider what projects you might consider. These recycled creations make excellent lawn ornaments, garden features, and home accents, or you may want to custom-create a gift for someone special. Try these scrap metal projects yourself!