Hormiga Atómica Strikes Again: My Studio's Secret Trash Stash

Angeline Marie Martinez

painting and sketching drawing artist

Berry container reused

Electrical tape box

Creative Reuse in the Art Studio
Besides rocks, there are many things I reuse and repurpose in my studio. It’s not just because I can be frugal. Some materials are either difficult to find or too expensive when I do find them, so I won’t buy them.
Why I Choose to Repurpose Materials
I prefer to spend on the tools that are most important, like quality paint, canvases, paper, and brushes. However, I enjoy finding new ways to use things. It’s fun and another way to be creative. I get a kick out of using things that would otherwise go in the trash.
The Story Behind "Hormiga Atómica"
The window installers nicknamed me “Hormiga Atómica.” I had to look up this cartoon character. I took every window support foam sticker they had, along with some packaging materials. I love the nickname, lol.
The Thrill of Turning Trash into Treasure
Don’t tell Andy, but the other day I made an extra stop at the bridge that still had truck wreckage. There were pink sheets of stuff I had to investigate. What if it’s rubbery? What if I can use it for making stamps? It was just compacted thick Styrofoam. I can’t use it. Oh well. At least I can stop wondering! Off to the next trash discovery! 

Did you know I have an ebook about How to Start Drawing More? Download my free guide on budget-friendly (and expensive) art supplies! 

Paper from box cut down for notes, etc. Free cardstock!

Plastic boxes for stencil materials or shipping rolled paintings

Plastic wrap that's used on my paint palettes

Hotel key cards and old credit cards to make scrappers, paint spreaders, etc