Upcycling is a simple and affordable way to transform your home while preserving resources. Instead of purchasing something new, you can repurpose existing items to create beautiful new ones. All it takes is some creativity and labor to turn your trash into treasures. While recycling breaks down old items to create something new, upcycling typically turns something old or worn into a fresh and innovative thing. Discover a few basic ideas to get started upcycling stuff in your shed or basement to bring them back into the light.
What is Upcycling?
Upcycling refers to taking something no longer in use and giving it a new function. On the other hand, recycling takes consumer materials and breaks them into base materials for reuse. As a result, upcycling does not break down materials; it refashions them to make something nicer and more functional.
Items to upcycle include old dressers, wooden pallets, curtains, and other household items that are no longer in use. Sometimes, the items you upcycle are hand-me-downs from someone else, or a unique item you find at a thrift store or garage sale.
Items to Upcycle for a New Look
Everyday items for upcycling include old dressers, bookcases, wood pallets, baskets, jute rope, and dried flowers. However, almost any item can be repurposed with a bit of imagination. Instead of throwing out used furniture and decor, consider ways to repurpose them for a new function.
For example, wood pallets can be painted and transformed into a backyard tiki bar or patio table. An old wooden dresser can be chalk painted with a wax topcoat for a light, bright appearance. Jute rope wrapped around a plain glass vase transforms into an eye-catching household accent.
Keep Supplies Available
A variety of supplies can be used to transform your trash into coveted treasures. Old paint, scissors, wood glue, paintbrushes, nails, hammer, and a saw are a great start to recreating items around the house. Create a storage area for items that can be repurposed, such as old curtains, small tables, or cutting boards.
Consider how a small table could be covered with a refurbished curtain and placed in the entryway, accompanied by a candle. Best of all, the area under the table can be used for storage, such as shoes to wear on the way out the door, keeping these items out of sight.
Explore All the Possibilities
Craft stores, antique shops, and flea markets all have great ideas for upcycling. Often, these vendors recreate old items to turn them into something unique and exciting. From mason jars to car logos, these items are incorporated into attractive home decor that people eagerly await to purchase. Instead of shopping for these crafty items, try experimenting with upcycling to see what you can create. There is no right or wrong way to transform something old into a new item. Take your time, try a few techniques, and you’re sure to be pleased with the results.
