You can’t spell repurpose without “eos,” and these simple DIYs will leave you wondering what an egg-shaped lip balm can’t become.

It seems everybody went crazy over the Evolution of Smooth lip salve (I know I did). Now that the hype has died down and seemingly everyone has three or four to spare, they are perfect for upcycling. Their cute, unique shape and their small, easy to store size makes them the ideal bag-stuffer for every on-the-go teen.

You can use your old lip balms as a small planter, an efficient jewelry holder, a unique candle or a nifty mini-soap.

Many of these DIYs start with the same steps of disassembly, so here’s what you’ll need to get each of these repurposing parties started:
     – Old EOS lip balm
     – X-Acto knife*
     – Lighter or other source of flame*
*remember to exercise caution when using these tools

Follow these steps to dismantle:

1. Use an X-Acto knife to pop out the cage that holds the lip balm from the bottom half of the “egg.”

2. Use an X-Acto knife to pop out the plastic “bubble” from the top part of the “egg.”

3. Remove the lip balm from the cage with your fingers and some hand soap.

4. Heat an X-Acto knife and cut from the edge of the the cage to remove the spokes.

5. Pop the bottom cage, the part you just cut the spokes out of, back to the rest of the bottom half of the outer “egg.”

Planter

During these chillier months, it can be hard to remember the vibrant blossoms of springtime, and that’s where this planter comes in. Perfect for placing on a lonely windowsill, it can liven up any winter day. A small succulent or a single flower will add an artsy element to any room it’s in.

Use this planter in a bedroom, bathroom or kitchen for an especially fresh look that sheds light to winter gloom.

How to:

1. Follow the dismantling steps above

2. Add soil to the bottom half of the “egg”

3. Plant a small plant in the soil

4. Place in your favorite spot and water regularly

Jewelry Holder

For students who are involved in extracurriculars that require a quick change, losing jewelry can be an inevitable hassle, but this easy container will put an end to those troubles. The EOS lip balm case is perfect for this, as its unique shape is an easy find in a cramped bag. Its twist-off cap makes for quick and easy storage, while providing security, ensure nothing goes missing. In the picture above, there are two rings, two bracelets, two pairs of earrings and a necklace in the container, and still plenty of room. This is an ideal jewelry holder and a simple fix to the daily frustration of keeping track of jewelry.

How to:

1. Follow dismantling steps above

2. Put in your bag and add some jewelry

Candle

There’s something about the light and aroma of a candle that brings cheerfulness to any home. This cute and convenient mini candle brings the same warmth, with a fresh, youthful look, and the added perk of the freedom to choose your own scent. Take it anywhere to bring a homey feel to wherever you travel.

Though this DIY is a bit more involved, the end result is well worth it: a stylish candle that brings a balance of cozy and chic wherever it may end up.

How to:

1. Follow the dismantling steps above, with a few exceptions: leave the spokes of the grate attached, and leave the “bubble” part of the top in place

2. Cut a fairly large chunk of a clear candle

3. Cut a smaller piece of a crayon (for color)

4. Put crayon, candle and a few sprays of your favorite perfume into a glass container

5. Use a double boiler method to melt them together

6. Glue a coin or piece of cardboard to the center of the spokes of the bottom crate of the “egg”

7. Hot glue the wick from the clear candle to the coin or piece of cardboard

8. Screw the bottom crate, the part with the spokes and the wick, to the top part of the “egg,” the part with the “bubble”

9. Pour the candle mixture into the top part of the “egg,” enough to cover the spokes but not filled to the very top

10. Freeze for at least an hour

11. Reassemble by popping the bottom crate, the part with the spokes, into bottom part of the “egg”

12. Unscrew and use a knife to find the tip of the wick

13. Light and enjoy

Soap

It’s happened to the best of us: a poor, forgotten restroom has left us stranded and soapless. Not only is it unsanitary, it’s annoying and far too common. Carry around this mini soap in your bag to ensure this never happens again. For real sanitation connoisseurs, having your own soap can be a must, and this handy and adorable mini one is perfect for just the type.

How to:

1. Follow the disassembly steps as according to the candle DIY

2. Cut a piece of glycerin soap into small cubes

3. Spray a bit of perfume on the cubes

4. Microwave cubes for 30 secs (be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl)

5. Add food coloring to the melted soap if desired

6. Screw the bottom crate, the part with the spokes, onto the top part of the “egg” (the same way as in the candle DIY)

7. Pour the melted soap into the top part of the egg, enough to cover the spokes but not filled to the very top

8. Freeze for 30 mins

9. Reassemble by popping the bottom crate, the part with the spokes, into bottom part of the “egg” and enjoy

All of these nifty DIYs will leave you wondering why you’ve been limiting yourself to having lip balm in these containers for so long. Whether it be a dainty planter, a convenient jewelry holder, a comforting mini candle, or a fresh backup soap, EOS lip balms provide endless options for the busy world of a teen. EOS’ combination of ease and style begs the question: where will these small but mighty egg-shaped salves take the world next?

Credit for all photos: Abby Sourwine / The Foothill Dragon Press