• A roll of bubble wrap may inspire invention.bubble wrap image by MichMac from Fotolia.com
  
  Invented more than 50 years ago by engineers Marc Chavannes and Al Fielding, bubble wrap has become a mainstay of packaging and shipping. While some simply dispose of the material after unwrapping, others see the plastic air-filled cells as a vehicle for creativity and exploration. Sealed Air Corporation, manufacturers of the material, sponsors a yearly contest to cull bubble wrap reuse ideas from youngsters.
  
  

Ornaments

• Use a single bubble from a sheet of bubble wrap to construct a clever Christmas tree ornament. These ornaments also allow for bottle cap reuse, according to the website Pink Sunrise. Use glue to attach a ribbon to a bottle cap "to make a hanger for the cap." Glue sequins or other glittery material to the inside of the bottle cap. Add more glue on top of the sequins and press a single aircell of bubble wrap into the cap. This craft idea can also be adapted to other holidays for which small ornaments are used. It helps to use glue that will be transparent when dry.
  
  

Curtains

• Clever bubble wrap reusers have been known to create window or shower curtains out of the material. Over windows, bubble wrap will promote privacy, as its design distorts the image. In the shower or tub, the same holds true. You can add color to your bubble-wrap curtain by using waterproof, non-toxic paints or other art materials. Start by measuring the length and width of the tub or window. Cut the bubble wrap according to these dimensions. Create holes at regular intervals at the top edge of the bubble wrap using a grommet-cutter, or other convenient device. Insert curtain rings into the holes then slide the rings over the curtain rod.
  
  

Bubble Wrap-Print Paper

• Use bubble wrap as a decorative printmaking tool to create paper for gift wrap and book covers. Cut the bubble wrap to match the dimensions of the paper you want to use. You can use heavy paper, such as construction paper, or even a brown paper bag. Using acrylic paint, cover the bubble wrap with the patterns or designs of your choice. Don't be afraid to use a lot of paint, as the designs will need to transfer successfully to the paper. While the paint is still wet, press the paper straight down onto the bubble wrap. Press firmly. Hold down the bubble wrap with one hand, and lift off the paper. If you are creating a large piece of printed paper, you may need a friend to hold down the bubble wrap during this step. Lay your newly printed paper where it will not be disturbed so it can dry thoroughly.