DIY 101: Upcycling for Beginners
Does the thought of taking something that’s considered trash and repurposing it sound intriguing?
If so, upcycling may be for you.
Unlike recycling, which breaks down discarded materials into raw materials, upcycling is the process of using those discarded materials to create something new. It has become a trendy – and sustainable – way to turn trash into treasure.
So before you go throw out your plastic grocery bags, you can turn them into a jump rope for your kids – or brainstorm a dozen other ways you could transform them.
How to Upcycle
The great thing about upcycling is that anyone can do it, and there are many different ways you can upcycle and repurpose items.
If you’re thinking of dabbling in the creative world of upcycling, the first step is to decide what you want to make. When it comes to upcycling, the possibilities are endless.
You know those old denim jeans you no longer wear? Those can be made into nifty bracelets. Or what about those mason jars your pickles come in? They can easily be upcycled into drinking glasses. Can’t forget about the wood pallets in your backyard—you can transform them into a headboard for your bedroom.
Once you’ve narrowed down what you’re going to make, you’ll have to gather up the supplies you need. Especially the item you’re going to upcycle. If you don’t already have the items you need at your home, flea markets, thrift shops and yard sales are perfect for finding used goods that you can purchase and upcycle into something new.
As soon as you’ve got what you need, you can begin crafting your masterpiece!
Easy Upcycling Items
Just about anything can be upcycled into something new. Some of the more easy upcycling items include:
| Upcycling Item | Project Ideas |
| Bedding | Tote bag, curtains, napkins, clothes |
| Corks | Coasters, key chains, backsplash, magnets |
| Gallon jugs | Scooper, planters, bird feeder, piggy bank |
| Glass jars | Candles, vases, planters, soap dispenser |
| Magazines | Wallpaper, gift wrap, coiled basket, trash bin |
| Plastic bottles | Vertical garden, food dispenser, sprinkler |
| Wood pallets | Tables, chairs, wine holder, bed frame |
These are just a few of the items that you can repurpose into something new. Just about anything can be upcycled. Remember, if you no longer have a use for it, upcycle it!
Upcycling is a great way to save money, reduce your carbon footprint and get creative.
Now that you know how to upcycle, it’s time to make the most out of your junk. Have a neat upcycling project idea? Share it in the comments below!