Are you updating your home decor? Why not upcycle? Using this sustainable method, you can use your old objects in a new and unique way. From recycling furniture to creating masterpieces out of discarded materials, upcycling supports sustainable and eco-friendly living.
See also: Best out of waste ideas to create home decor items
Upcycling: 12 ideas to upcycle basic things
Repurposed window frames
Old window frames can be transformed into wall art or useful elements. Replace the glass with mirrors to make a vintage-inspired vanity tray or coat it with chalkboard paint to make a message board, photo frame or calendar.
Source: Pinterest
Suitcase pet bed
Transform an old suitcase into a cosy bed for your furry friend. Line the suitcase with a soft cushion or blanket and add pillows for comfort.
Source: Pinterest (The Crafty Blog Stalker)
Upcycled glass jar lanterns
Gather empty glass jars of various sizes and turn them into lanterns. Insert battery-operated LED lights or candles inside the jars and suspend them with twine or wire. Hang them from trees or hooks to create a magical ambience for outdoor gatherings.
Source: Pinterest
Repurposed tyres
Old tyres can be repurposed into a variety of utilitarian and aesthetic components. Paint them and use them as planters for a colourful yard display. Alternatively, stack tyres on top of each other, attach them and add a cushion to provide an affordable and distinctive seating option for outdoor spaces.
Source: Pinterest (Family Handyman)
Tin can organisers
Empty tin cans from canned food can be transformed into handy organisers for your kitchen, office or workshop. Clean the cans thoroughly, remove any sharp edges and paint or decorate them as desired. Then, attach them to a wooden board or directly to the wall to hold pens, utensils or small tools.
Source: Pinterest
Record sleeve wall art
Turn old record sleeves into wall art. Frame your favourite record covers and make a gallery wall honouring your musical choices.
Source: Pinterest
Wine bottle pendant lights
Empty wine bottles can be repurposed into elegant pendant lights. Remove the labels, clean the bottles thoroughly and insert a pendant light kit through the bottle’s neck. Hang them in a cluster or individually to create a captivating lighting arrangement.
Source: Pinterest (Amazon Fashion EU)
Vinyl record clocks
Repurpose old vinyl records by making them into clocks. Remove the centre label, then mount the clock hands and mechanism on the wall. Vinyl record clocks’ unique and retro style provides a nostalgic touch to your house while displaying your appreciation for music.
Source: Pinterest
Vintage drawer shelves
Salvage old drawers from discarded furniture and turn them into wall shelves. Clean, paint or refinish the drawers as desired. Mount them on the wall with the open side facing outward and use them to display books, plants or decorative items.
Source: Pinterest (Deea Meek)
Mason jar storage
Empty mason jars can be used for a variety of upcycling projects. Attach the lids to the underside of a shelf and screw the jars on, producing a storage solution for small items such as spices, craft supplies or bathroom needs. To fit your home design, you can paint or customise the jars.
Source: Pinterest (tillysnest.com)
Board game lamp
You can use the coins, counters or currency of board games and make a lamp out of it.
Source: Pinterest (elisabethjeancustom.blogspot.com)
Camera negative shade for lamp
Nowadays no one uses negatives of camera. You can put them to good use by converting them as a lamp shade.
Source: Pinterest (hubpages.com/348395721184428302)
Housing.com POV
It’s a good idea to recycle and upcycle things that you don’t use anymore. This way you will give a quirky decor to your home. Also, you will help in minimising the waste by maximizing use of these old and unwanted products.
FAQs
What is upcycling?
The practice of repurposing discarded goods into something fresh and useful is known as upcycling. It entails repurposing and reinventing materials to give them new life rather than discarding them as garbage.
Where can I find upcycling materials?
Thrift stores, garage sales and online stores like Etsy are excellent venues to find antiques and vintage objects. You can also reuse goods that you no longer use.
Why should I upcycle for home improvement?
Upcycling helps reduce waste and promotes environmental sustainability by repurposing items that would otherwise end up in landfills. It is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new items, saving you money in the process.
Are there any safety considerations when upcycling?
Yes, safety should always be a priority when upcycling. Be cautious when handling tools, especially if you're not familiar with them. If you're working with potentially hazardous materials, such as paints or adhesives, ensure proper ventilation and follow safety guidelines.
Do I need special skills or tools to upcycle?
No, you don't necessarily need specialised skills or tools to upcycle. Many upcycling projects can be completed with basic tools such as screwdrivers, hammers, and paintbrushes. However, certain projects may require additional tools based on the materials you're working with.
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