Because charcoal is a porous material, it can be used as a base for a crystal garden. After breaking up a bowl full of charcoal with a hammer, placing a mixture of ammonia, bluing, salt and water on top of the charcoal will create a crystal garden. The charcoal must sit untouched for 72 hours while the crystals form and can later be colored with food coloring for a more vibrant piece. This project works because the ammonia evaporates water and lets the bluing and salt move through the pores of the charcoal, creating crystals.
If you are tired of using typical crayons, colored pencils and markers to create art work, consider using charcoal. Purchase charcoal pencils at an arts and crafts store and sketch out your favorite object or person. Try getting thrifty by putting on gloves and using old charcoal from a grill to make an abstract work of art. Be sure the charcoal has cooled off completely before using.
Since charcoal has plenty of pores, it is great for absorbing moisture. Instead of throwing charcoal away after grilling, use it as a dehumidifier in your home by placing it in an old container, such as a coffee can, and putting holes in the lid. The charcoal will help to absorb moisture in the air. You can also use charcoal in the same way to create an air freshener for your home. It will help to not only absorb moisture, but also odor.
Use charcoal for several outdoor projects in both cold and warm temperatures. For instance, spread charcoal around your garden instead of using mulch. The pores in the charcoal will keep moisture in the soil as well as help to eliminate weeds. Another project is to use charcoal in composting to keep carbon levels high. You can also add a few pieces of charcoal to your sand and salt mixture in the winter for ice prevention. This will help to keep the sand and salt from forming clumps.