Upcycling is the process of transforming discarded items into new materials or products of better quality. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to recycling and a creative way to give trash a second life. Here are 8 simple upcycling projects to add style to your home decor.
Old wooden pallets are ideal for DIY furniture like coffee tables, shelves, and storage crates. You can sand down splinters, then stain or paint the wood in your choice of colors to match your decor theme. Pallets are sturdy, spacious, and have a rustic feel that’s perfect for contemporary or bohemian interiors.
Plastic bottles make colorful vases, pencil holders, and organizers. Clean the bottles, then cut them to your desired size and shape. You can leave them as is for a minimal look or decorate the outside with paint, twine, ribbons, or washi tape. Plastic bottles come in a variety of sizes, so you can find options for every corner of your home.
Give glass jars and bottles new purpose as candle holders, terrariums, or kitchen storage. Remove any labels, then fill the jars with sand, rocks, or moss and a tea light or small plant. For storage, use jars to hold cooking utensils, pens and pencils, cotton balls, or bathroom items. The glass containers will brighten up your space and keep items neatly organized.
Breathe new life into faded denim by turning old jeans into upholstery, rugs, pouches, and more. Cut the legs off jeans to make denim pouches or the seat and back pockets to make mini organizers. Sew the legs together end to end to make a durable rug. Or remove the seams to use the denim fabric for reupholstering chairs, ottomans, and benches. Denim adds a casual, rustic touch to country chic decors.
Empty tin cans transform into charming pencil holders, vases, candles, and planters. Remove the lid and clean out the cans, then decorate the outside with paint, stickers, string, or patterned paper. You can also punch holes in the bottom of cans to make lightweight planters. Tin cans work well in retro, industrial, and rustic style rooms.
Old books get a new chapter as artful displays, storage boxes, and tabletop decor. Hollow out the pages of a book to make a secret storage box or display case. Or stack old books together to make an artistic table centerpiece. Books add visual interest and a sense of history to living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.