101 upcycling ideas
Upcycling ideas
Here are 101 ways to recycle your trash to cherish and refresh your home
The Green Revolution is well underway in 2023, but what does
that mean? And how can you make sustainable changes to support the environment?
In this article we will explain what
recycling is, why it is good for the planet and give you ideas for
turning your waste into treasure.
We will cover the following:
How to recycle at home?
Recycling at home is easier than you think – you probably
have plenty of items in your home that can be reused and repurposed.
Essentially, you're taking an existing item and using it for something else.
For example, you can transform old glass bottles into a vase or table lamp by
adding string lights.
What is an upcycling project?
An upcycling project can be whatever you want it to be; a
personal DIY project to refresh your home decor, a creative outlet to mix up
your wardrobe, or an exploration of sustainable living. Whatever your why, the
goal is to take something that is no longer used and turn it into something you
can benefit from.
What materials can be recycled?
You can recycle glass, metal, fabric, wood, cardboard, tin
and packaging that would otherwise be thrown away, like plastic. The only limit
is your imagination!
What can be recycled and reused?
You can recycle and reuse anything you scale old into
shelves , old clothes into new clothes , or even old tires into jewelry .
How to cut up old jeans for sewing and recycling projects?
If you're looking for a summer DIY project to refresh your
wardrobe without breaking the bank, upcycling old jeans into shorts might be
the perfect starter project. You can also use the material for sewing projects
such as cushion covers .
Easy Upcycling Ideas and Inspiration:
Let's start by highlighting simple projects that anyone can
try, regardless of your DIY experience.
1.
Mason Jar Lanterns
This is the perfect starter project if you want to recycle
something you no longer use around the house. These mason jar lanterns are one
of our favorite projects – not only are they easy to make, but they also add an
elegant and personal finishing touch to parties, outdoor events, and weddings.
2.
Teacup Candles
You may have tried making your own candles during lockdown,
or simply loved old teacups. Whether you want to reuse your existing tea set or
save one from a charity shop, this is another simple upcycling project to help
you create a lovely candle holder .
3.
Cork coasters
It's a creative way to reuse old wine or bottle corks and a
fun DIY project that adds a touch of personalization to your home decor.
4.
Wool coasters
Another material you can use to create unique coasters is
wool . If you have a wardrobe full of old shrunken sweaters or chewed up
sweaters, this is the perfect solution to repurposing them.
5.
Recycle your broken dishes
Whether it's your favorite plate, bowl, or cup that you just
don't want to throw away, here are some great ideas for upcycling them,
including a Chipped Plate Birdbath .
6.
Cable Drum Table and Cable Drum Bench Ideas
This simple idea requires a bit of thought, as you're
unlikely to have a cable reel lying around. Finding one is well worth the time
because you can create your perfect indoor or outdoor table with benches like
this design idea .
7.
Magazine Garland
Recycling old magazines doesn't have to mean throwing them
in the trash - you can turn them into something new, including this Magazine
Garland (idea 40), which can brighten up any space.
8.
Laundry Room Farmhouse Light
If you are a fan of the industrial look of your home and
want to create a unique light, this Laundry Room Farmhouse Light is the ideal
project. Find out how to make your own here .
9.
Five Minute DIY Storage Boxes
The whole family can get involved in this project to create
their own unique storage boxes for arts and crafts, toys, treasures and
stationery.
10.
Lemon peel soaps
What do you usually do with your lemon peels Have you
thought about turning them into super cute soaps In addition to saving space in
your bin, these homemade soaps (#53) will soothe, soften and pamper tired
hands.
One thing that many people ask is: what can I do with my boring walls How
can I make my walls more interesting In this section of the guide, we are going
to help you refresh your walls using clever upcycling ideas.
diy wall art
11.
DIY Recording Clock
There are many ways to transform boring walls, but one of
the simplest is to change what you have hanging. For example, this DIY
Personalized Vinyl Record Clock could transform your favorite vintage record
that's no longer playing, but is sentimental.
12.
Recycle old spoons to hang your mug collection
If you have old teaspoons that you no longer use or want to
keep a spoon from different family members for sentimental reasons, have you
thought about creating a DIY mug or mug holder ?
13.
Create a gallery wall of old windows
Leave the frames blank or add your family photos, unique
designs or sentimental keepsakes can transform any wall into a personalized and
vibrant space.
14.
DIY Framed Tapestry Art
This easy art project reuses and refreshes existing frames
with new upholstery paint. You can order one online or reuse a piece of fabric
or material you already own - this is a great idea if you have old clothes that
you no longer wear but can't bear to throw away.
15.
Hang a quilt!
Feeling Crafty Have You Tried Quilting Whether you want to
brighten up a boring wall or try a new hobby, hanging a quilt (that you made
yourself!), or a rug, could be the perfect solution. We love these Boho dining
room wall hanging !
16.
DIY Wall Art Ideas
Create your own wall art using everyday items from cupcake
wrappers to yogurt cups and tissue paper. This post has several ideas to
inspire you and help you unleash your creativity.
17.
No-Sew Quilt Block Using Magazine, Card, and
Gift Wrap Paper
If you love a textured quilted design but don't like
stitching, we have a solution for you that is not only fun, but will instantly
brighten up your boring walls! This No-Sew Quilt Block Tutorial explains how to
transform household materials into a whole new decor.
18.
DIY Herringbone Canvas Art
Learn how to transform an old, unloved canvas into something
unique that instantly matches your style for less. This guide explains how to
adopt herringbone printing to create a remarkable work of art.
19.
Painted Shells for Tabletop Displays and Wall
Art
Are you the type of person who collects vacation souvenirs,
including seashells? This article explains how to turn seashells into unique
works of art that can be hung around the home or used to create tabletop
displays.
20.
DIY Cork Projects
These DIY cork board project suggestions are ideal if you
want to transform your walls and create a convenient space to pin up all your
important notices or sentimental postcards and letters.
Many people want to know what upcycling projects they can adopt to help them
reuse, renovate and recycle items around the home.
upcycled wine bottles
21.
Recycled wine bottles
Perhaps one of the most popular upcycling projects at the
moment! This simple but effective idea can instantly transform your dining room
or interior design. You can use any glass bottle for a pop of color or
different bulbs - you can even add fairy lights to add sparkle for special
occasions.
22.
Recycled boxes
You've finished your can of beans, sweetcorn or tomatoes and
are about to toss it in the recycling, but you can create mini hanging baskets
and planters to hang outside or in the kitchen. Recycling boxes is one of the
simplest upcycling ideas you can try.
23.
Ends of spray painting tables
Picture this: you've been looking at the same coffee
table/side table for weeks, months, and years. You love him, but you need a
change. This simple DIY project will help you refresh and renew your existing
furniture without costing much.
24.
13 Ways to Transform Glass Jars
Whether you have classic mason jars or everyday jam jars,
this item will help you transform them and give them new life. We especially
love the water candle idea (#7), which uses fruit to create a citrus scent!
25.
DIY Bead Magnets
Old and broken jewelry no longer has to sit collecting dust
or be abandoned in dark drawers. You can turn it into useful, pretty and unique
fridge magnets .
26.
Turn a washing machine drum into an outdoor
fireplace
If your washing machine is beyond repair, have you
considered reusing the drum? create your own garden fire pit for a fraction of
the cost of purchasing a purpose built one.
27.
Turn old pencils into a candle
Easily create a rainbow layered candle from broken, unwanted
or unused wax candles. This simple tutorial explains how to create a pretty
candle with minimal equipment.
28.
DIY No-Sew Recycled Denim Kindle Cover
Do you use a Kindle or e-reader? How do you protect it from
dirt and damage? Here's the perfect solution - it's a DIY No-Sew Recycled Jeans
Cover you can create and customize yourself regardless of your making
experience.
29.
Bike Wheel Pot and Pan Racks
It may not be for everyone, but it's a great space-saving
idea for those with small kitchens or anyone who prefers statement items in
their home. This unique pot rack can be customized to suit your needs.
30.
Refashion Flip-Flop (braided straps)
If you have an old pair of flip flops lying around the house
that are broken or on the verge of breaking, fear not! This tutorial will help
you reshape them and bring them back to life!
Another popular question concerns furniture valuation. If you're a fan of
programs like The Repair Shop, you might be interested in restoration
techniques as well as upcycling.
painted furniture
31.
Painted furniture
Whether you want to transform a wooden piece of furniture by
painting it or restoring it will depend on whether you are a purist. This can
be a quick and easy way to transform an old piece of furniture, such as this
dresser .
32.
Recycling Furniture Drawers
If you have an old set of drawers or a broken piece of
furniture, instead of throwing it away, you can remove the drawers and use
them. We love this idea of turning old drawers into side tables!
33.
Reuse kitchen cabinet doors
Getting a new kitchen, but can't sell your old units This is
a potential solution . Have you considered repurposing your cabinet doors and
transforming them into something new like a tray, key rack or family board?
34.
Upholstered furniture
If you are confident in your abilities and want to breathe
new life into an old or tired piece of furniture, you can try reupholstering it
. This upcycling hack can make your old sofa or chair look like new!
35.
Funky Binder
If you've been working from home since lockdown (or before)
and have an awful (but useful) filing cabinet, have you thought about
transforming it? This project uses wallpaper to increase the visual appearance.
36.
Table d'appoint Book
If you have old books that you can't bear to give away or
sell, but you know you won't read them again, you can create this Book Side
Table ! There are many options to choose from!
37.
Simple but Striking Chair Makeover
In this article, an old chair purchased at a flea market is
transformed into a stylish new seat with nothing more than a black stain kit and
metallic paint. The idea can be applied to an existing piece of furniture or a
bargain.
38.
Transform a dresser with a leopard print
You might be updating an existing space, starting over, or
having trouble finding furniture that fits you.” This brilliant DIY tutorial
explains how to transform a simple dresser into a striking and fun leopard
print piece.
39.
Thrift Store Bookcase/Nightstand Makeover
Tutorial
This bookcase/bedside table had seen better days before
being transformed into a unique, personalized usable piece of furniture. This
project is suitable for an ambitious or experienced DIYer who wants to put
their stamp on their furniture at a lower cost.
40.
Geometric Painted Furniture
Add a splash of color to any interior, boring walls or old
furniture with a geometric paint design. Geometric designs work on new and old
furniture - quickly transforming drawers, cabinets and side tables.
Creating storage spaces that are as unique as you and your style isn't as
difficult as you think...
41.
Recycled Jewelry Frame
This recycled jewelry setting is the perfect storage
solution for your earrings, necklaces and rings. Upcycling isn't just about
turning old items into something new, it can be as simple as offering a
solution for organizing your valuables.
42.
Ladder Shelves
Ladder shelves are one of the most useful upcycling storage
projects you can do at home. Whether you have an old set of ladders at home or
found some for sale in the trunk of a car, you can instantly save space and
money.
43.
Making a Reclaimed Library Cart
In addition to recycling an item that would definitely be
thrown away, it's the perfect smart storage solution for bookworms ! You can
easily move your To Read pile between your reading spaces. It is also a
cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new mobile book cart.
44.
Laminate Cabinet Transformed into Green Boho
Style Wardrobe
It's a good idea! Instead of just transforming an old
wardrobe, the team behind this took inspiration from another piece of furniture
in an expensive store - it highlights how you can create your own designer
furniture on the cheap!
45.
Reclaimed Wood and Pallet Potting Benches
Before you throw away that old piece of furniture, door or
pallet, you need to read this guide ! It will inspire you and help you
transform your unwanted wood into a unique potting bench and storage unit for
all your gardening tools.
46.
Recycled Crib in Craft Room Storage
If you love crafts but have trouble storing and organizing
your supplies, this is a good idea . You can repurpose an old crib into an
organizer that is as unique as you and matches your style.
47.
Unloved bread bins in kitchen storage
Turning a Bread Basket into Storage This might not be the
idea that comes to mind when you try to think of ways to increase your kitchen
storage space, but they can easily be picked up from charity shops and car boot
sales if you don't have any lying around at home.
48.
Recycled Guitar Shelf
It's not something you see every day, but a very creative
storage option that can also solve the problem of boring walls. If you have an
old guitar that is broken, unusable, or has sentimental value, this is the
perfect way to repurpose it .
49.
Old drawers on casters for storage under the bed
This post has not one, but 20 fabulous ideas for clever
storage solutions. We particularly like the idea of transforming old drawers
into under-bed storage simply by reusing old wheels or casters.
50.
Clever and Charming DIY Magazine Storage Ideas
These ideas are ideal for storing magazines and documents -
we particularly like the Shutter Bracket (No. 10), which sees an old shutter
transformed into a trendy storage space.
In this section, we'll show you an array of upcycling display ideas to help
you show off your books, your priceless antiques and your family treasures.
wooden crate shelves
51.
Shelves for wooden crates
Old crates may seem like an unwanted item, but they are
perfect for a range of DIY recycling projects. You can even create floating
shelves to store your books, ornaments or family photos!
52.
Old drawer in jewellery organizer
If you have a varied jewellery collection with long
necklaces, bracelets and earrings, it's difficult to find an organizer that
fits all your pieces. But if you create your own organizer in an old drawer,
you can easily access the space you need.
53.
Recycled vintage china cabinet
Antique Chinese cabinets that require a little TLC can
easily be found in online marketplaces. This Chinese cabinet was scratched and
had cracked glass - it had seen better days until it was repaired, painted and
recycled into a usable cabinet.
54.
DIY Gift Wrapping Station
Whether you have an old door that you no longer use due to
renovations or you found one at a refinishing yard, this is the perfect way to
keep your wrapping paper and accessories tidy and organized.
55.
Knit yourself a glasses display
This is the perfect solution for those who wear glasses or
sunglasses! Whether you leave them in different places around the house forever
or put them in a random drawer, this easy-to-follow tutorial provides a handy
organizer and display idea for all the glasses.
56.
DIY Macrame Hanging Terrarium Tutorial
Create your own boho hanging macrame terrarium for yourself
or as a gift! This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide - you don't need any
creative experience to complete this fun project.
57.
Turn books into shelves
If you have broken books that you don't want to reread but
don't want to throw away either, this might be the perfect solution . You can
create shelves from your books!
58.
Make an aquarium with an old television
This is not your everyday DIY project, but a creative way to
transform an old, outdated or unused TV. This tutorial explains how to create a
unique aquarium while recycling something you're never going to reuse!
59.
Trellis tennis rackets
Old tennis rackets are easy to find in car trunks or yard
sales, but have you ever thought about transforming them into something
completely new? What about garden trellises? This simple idea will help you
create a unique garden feature and useful trellis for roses or clematis.
60.
DIY Coat Rack
If you want a coat rack as unique as your style and
personality, this is the ideal solution for you. Simply grab some old pieces of
wood and a collection of drawer pulls to hang your coats on. You can even use
the ends of old drawers to upcycle an old piece of furniture.
Recycling clothes into something new might seem like an obvious upcycling
choice – and there are some obvious options on our list – but there are also
some you might not have thought of!
upcycled clothing
61.
DIY Old Jeans into Camy Dress
With summer approaching, you may be ready for a wardrobe
refresh, but have you considered transforming your old jeans into a camy dress
? This style is perfect for walks along the beach, cocktails with friends and
outings.
62.
Transform blue denim jeans into a unique rug
Who doesn't have old jeans in the wardrobe Whether they're
faded and holey or no longer suit your style, there are so many things you can
do with your old jeans, including creating a unique recycled rug . You can mix
and match different shades of denim to create an eye-catching centerpiece.
63.
Old Shirt Pillowcase
If your favorite shirt has seen better days but still has
sentimental value, have you considered giving it a new life and upcycling it?
The super easy no-sew method is ideal for beginners and those new to textile
upcycling.
64.
Dress Refashion Technique
If you have a collection of old dresses that are outgrown,
outdated, or potentially inherited from a family member, you can transform them
into something that perfectly suits you and your style. We love this
Transformation Refashion Dress !
65.
Turn the T-shirt into a halter top
If you have a favorite t-shirt that you can't part with, but
it's looking tired, one suggestion is to repurpose it into a stylish halter
top. This technique is an easy starter project for anyone interested in
upcycling clothing.
66.
Pull Upcycling DIY
Cropped sweaters have become increasingly popular in recent
years as they are ideal for festivals, camping trips and summer evenings with
friends. An old sweater can easily be transformed into a stylish cropped
sweater with this sewing technique .
67.
Restyle a Long Skirt into a Summer Kaftan
Finding a kaftan or kimono that fits your wardrobe can be
difficult! They are usually light, bright and airy, but will they match your
other items? A simple technique to ensure that your new kaftan or kimono fits
your style perfectly is to repurpose an old long skirt, like this .
68.
DIY Recycled Fringe Shorts
If you have a favorite pair of denim shorts, skirt, or pair
of jeans, but you're tired of wearing the same outfit in all your photos, this
simple DIY Recycled Fringe Shorts idea is perfect. You can update your denim
shorts with simple crochet techniques.
69.
DIY Summer Clothes
Another technique to upgrade your wardrobe quickly and
inexpensively is to use DIY Summer Clothing techniques. This includes
renovating denim shorts by adding fabric to the back pockets or repurposing an
old baggy t-shirt into a tie-front tank.
70.
Unloved coat repurposed into elegant dress
How often do you buy a new coat Once a year Several times a
year The biggest question is: What do you do with your old coat If you're
looking for inspiration to reduce your waste, we love this transformation of an
old coat into a stylish pinafore dress with pockets!
upcycled army tent canvas bag gift idea
71.
Chic bicycle chain
When you think of stylish accessories, old bike chains
probably don't come to mind, but we have been collecting unwanted chains from
Nottingham bike repair shops and creating unique jewelry for years. From
bracelets to earrings and cufflinks - we have something for everyone!
72.
Cool Skater Accessories
These statement jewelry pieces were developed by a designer
based in Yogyakarta. They reflect the city's vibrant skate community and the
need to turn unwanted skateboards into something new.
73.
Recycled wooden jewellery
As well as being eye-catching, this Conture Recycled Wood
Gold Chain Necklace is the ideal anniversary gift for couples who want to
follow the traditional anniversary list.
74.
Recycled Army Tent Backpack
It's the ideal practical yet stylish gift for the person in
your life who is always on the go. It's made from recycled military canvas,
meaning it's durable enough to withstand all weather conditions. It's perfect
for family adventures, countryside escapes or the daily commute.
75.
Electric wire earrings
Potentially not your first thought when thinking about
upcycling, but hear us out – this old electrical wiring is the perfect material
for creating a pair of unique, eco-friendly earrings.
76. Recycled inner tube jewellery
Again, this probably isn't your first thought when we talk
about stylish accessories, but it's amazing what you can do with a little
creativity. Did you know that most bicycle inner tubes are sent to landfills,
where they will remain for an eternity.
76.
Oak tea light holder
It's the perfect housewarming gift as it adds an element of
ambiance to any setting, from cozy evenings to alfresco dining.
77.
Recycled Rubber Motorcycle Tire Belt
For all the cool biker dads and boyfriends, the Recycled
Rubber Motorcycle Tire Belt is the perfect birthday, anniversary or Father's
Day gift. Each item is unique due to the materials used and can help people
show their personality in style.
78.
Zodiac Sign Necklace
If your friend embraces sustainability and fashion, these
Zodiac Sign Necklaces are the ultimate gift. They are stylish and allow the
wearer to reveal their sign.
79.
Recycled Bike Messenger Bag
We've all heard about the growing popularity of cycling for
fun and commuting, but finding the perfect accessory is difficult. This
Recycled Bike Messenger Bag is ideal for everyday commuting as it offers a
combination of durable and water-resistant reclaimed materials.
Upcycling projects at home are a great start, but there's a lot you can do
in the garden - here's a list of ideas to help you start your next outdoor
project!
upcycled pallet furniture
80.
Hanging Colander Baskets
If your kitchen strainers have seen better days, don't just
throw them away! With a little creativity and a touch of bright paint,
colanders can make the perfect hanging baskets for houseplants.
81.
DIY garden bench
If you're desperate for outdoor seating on a budget, you
could try this DIY idea which sees an old bed frame transformed into a garden
bench.
82.
Outdoor Pallet Sofa Chair
Pallets are fairly easy to find and another inexpensive
option for creating unique outdoor furniture. You can create tables, seats and
even a sofa on casters .
83.
DIY Recycled Wood Pallet Vertical Garden
If you're short on outdoor garden space but want to find
room for more plants or even an herb garden, this could be the perfect solution
for you. This DIY Recycled Wood Pallet Vertical Garden is easy to make and
customize to suit your style.
84.
Unique garden path made from recycled finds
Whether you're a beachcomber or a mudlarker, chances are
you'll come across some interesting finds while you're away. But have you
thought about using them for something else? Unique garden path made from
recycled finds can add a pop of color to any garden path.
85.
Recycled Herb Planters and Recycled Wood Ladder
It's the perfect combination of recycled and upcycled
materials. You can create a unique herb garden using old boxes and an unwanted
or unloved wooden ladder. A bonus is the fact that you can move your herb
garden around your garden.
86.
DIY Recycled Planters
Have you ever tried to buy a planter online and realized
that you are guessing on the size and not sure if it will fit your plants or
the space you have? There is another way to refresh your existing planters to
suit your needs with DIY Upcycling tips.
87.
Recycled watering can
Do you have an old or unloved watering can in your garden
Have you thought about transforming it into a beautiful outdoor ornament We
love this original hanging design !
88.
Welly DIY Boot Planters
If you have piles of old wellies or the kids have outgrown
theirs, but you can't bring yourself to throw them away, this is the perfect
compromise. You can reuse them as planters around the garden !
89.
Terrarium Mason Jar
If you want to bring a little outdoors inside, this Mason
Jar Terrarium is ideal! This is a very simple and customizable project if you
want to give them as gifts. You can use a range of plants, different colored
pebbles or moss.
Here are some of our favorite upcycling ideas to help you declutter,
refresh and have fun with the whole family.
vintage suitcase makeover
90.
Vintage Suitcase Makeover
Whether you have old suitcases in your attic or have seen a
set in your local charity shop, this is the perfect upcycling project to give
them a makeover and change the overall look.
91.
DIY Dining Room Chandelier
Chandeliers have gained popularity as the centerpiece of
many dining rooms, but their price makes them a significant financial
investment. The economical alternative is to create a DIY chandelier from
existing items around the house that can be recycled and upcycled. We love this
Musical chandelier idea , what is your favorite?
92.
Easy DIY Solar Fountain
Easily transform your outdoor space no matter its size with
this Easy DIY Solar Fountain (with Pond Aquatic Plants). You can attract
wildlife, including birds and frogs, while brightening up your outdoor space.
93.
DIY Bookend Ideas
Treat your shelves with this article on DIY bookend ideas!
We especially like the Glitter Rocks (No. 4), which provides a fun and creative
outlet for people who want to personalize their shelves.
94.
DIY String Light Planters
As soon as spring arrives and we are inspired to clear out
the garden and want to refresh our furniture before barbecue season, prices
increase while availability decreases. That’s why we love this idea of
creating your own DIY String Light Planters . You can add the plants or
flowers you like and change them depending on the season.
95.
Give old stained glass a new lease of life
Have you ever been to a car boot sale and seen random old
stained glass panels and wished you had them in your home? Well, with this
innovative idea , you can! You can brighten up your space without removing your
existing windows or purchasing expensive stained glass.
96.
DIY Recycled Sweater Woven Ottoman Stool Cover
Unwanted sweaters can easily be recycled and turned into an
ottoman cover with this easy-to-follow tutorial . It uses a woven technique to
provide a high quality finish and can be personalized.
97.
Make Reusable Sandwiches and Snack Wraps
Single-use plastic is so bad for the environment! But it's
hard to think of everyday alternatives. This tutorial provides step-by-step
instructions for creating reusable sandwich wraps that can be used daily and
avoid having to use plastic sandwich bags.
98.
DIY Oak Barrel Bar
Whether you want to create a unique storage space for your
liquor or just like the design idea, this guide will help you transform an
unused oak barrel into a practical, usable storage space.
99.
Mattress spring display board
Transform an old bed frame or mattress spring frame into a
unique bulletin board - it's the ideal notice board for home offices, or it can
be used in family spaces to highlight school updates and achievements.
100.
Easy and Inventive Garden Markers
It's an easy and fun project the whole family can enjoy and
you can use any items you have around the house. You can use stakes, wooden
spoons, corks, twigs and more to label your plants and vegetables!
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