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Turning old, unwanted things into something unique and exciting is so much fun! I especially love when I can reuse an object that is already in my possession to create something new.
I’ve always been a fan of the upcycling process because it’s such a creative way to give unloved objects new life. That being said, nothing compares to finding other ways of using your possessions—even if they are items you thought were useless before.
I’m sure there are literally thousands of other upcycling projects out there. Still, these DIY easy upcycling ideas are the ones I liked the most. I hope you’ll find some inspiration for your creations as well.
Plastic Bottles Into Faux Concrete Candlestick Holders
Check out this awesome transformation! Used plastic bottles turned into candlestick holders with a faux concrete/stone finish. Easy upcycling project to create a great addition to your home decor.
Photo Credit:elizabethjoandesigns.com
Boxes into Baskets
This awesome idea, found on Elizabeth Joan Designs, will let you upcycle any unwanted boxes into these pretty storage baskets. And who hasn’t got a tonne of Amazon boxes lying around asking to be turned into something nice? She also has a tutorial to make the basket liners, so make sure you’ll check it out as well.
Photo Credit:thewickerhouse.com
Coffee cans to plant pots
If you’re a coffee-lover, I bet you’ve got many of these cans stacked up, waiting to be turned into something useful and pretty. The idea is simple and doesn’t require many tools and materials.
Just some spray 2-in-1 primer and paint, a power drill, clothesline rope, and seashell necklaces(but you can use whatever you want). The final results would look awesome in a beach/marine-themed interior.
Photo Credit:www.littlehouseoffour.com
Recycled Glass Jars
Another super cute and quick project to make some storage jars. You can use them in the kitchen or for kids’ art supplies, anything really. Perhaps bathroom storage for cotton balls etc.?
Katie from Little House of Four used some scrapbook paper to decorate them, but you could use metallic paint or glitter if you like more bling.
Photo Credit:decoratingcents.blogspot.com
Paint Stirrers Mirror
This project is so awesome I had to look twice to actually tell that it’s been made out of paint stirrers. It’s so simple and looks fantastic. All you need is some supplies like paint stir sticks, a round mirror, a stain, gorilla glue, a wall hanger, and that’s it.
Great idea for a quick weekend project, and I bet it would also look great with a rectangular-shaped mirror.
Photo Credit:theverden.blogspot.com
Crate shelves
Super easy idea for creating shelving space using wooden crates. Although the concept comes from Thea’s Mania blog, which is a non-English site, and the tutorial isn’t in English, it’s pretty simple to make. You just paint or stain the crates and hang them on the wall in some sort of organized composition that you like.
Tip. use Brave browser to translate this tutorial to English.
Photo Credit:www.purplehuesandme.com
Recycled Soda Can Wall Art
It’s pretty hard to believe that this wall art is made out of soda cans. But it is. That’s so cool, isn’t it? It takes recycling to a whole new level. And it’s straightforward to make as well.
Upcycled Glass Jars into Cute Stenciled Glass Vases
Do you have a plethora of glass jars just sitting around collecting dust? With some stencils, spray paint, and a little patience, these upcycled jars can become cute stenciled vases for your home! Read on to learn how I turned my old jars into these cuties.
Photo Credit:shabbyfufu.com
Creative DIY Flower Pot Idea
Have you got a spare plastic flower bucket somewhere in the house? Then you must try this super easy and quick upcycling project. Ugly to pretty in no time 🙂 I’m sure you can make one for the garden as well.
Photo Credit:www.hometalk.com
Pine Cone Wreath
This is a fantastic idea for Christmastmas It looks great. It’s simple and yet pretty. Although it’s already January when this post is being published, I’m sure you’ll appreciate this project next time around.
DIY Candle flower branches
I am so excited to share this springtime DIY project with you. It’s a super easy design that you can do in just minutes to brighten up your home for the new season!
The supplies I found lying around- were an old candle, a crayon, and a few old branches. Create this beautiful blossom vase to welcome spring into your home!
If you love taking long warm, relaxing baths, this project is right up your alley. Pretty easy to make and could be an excellent idea for a Valentine’s Day gift as well.
I actually do have one listed in my valentine’s day gift post as well. The other one is a bit more advanced but beautiful indeed. Make sure to check it out.
Photo Credit:www.southernrevivals.com
Vintage Entertainment Center turned Play Kitchen
I’m sure you’ve seen all these fancy wooden toy kitchens for the little ones. They’re adorable but so, so expensive. They literally can cost hundreds of dollars. So when I saw this upcycling project, I was sure I wanted it on my list. It’s so cute 🙂 And not that difficult to make as well
Photo Credit:www.twoityourself.com
Thrifted Dresser to TV Stand/Buffet/Entryway Table
I absolutely love this dresser flip project. It gave a new life to the old dresser, and it looks terrific. Hats off to Mellisa. She did a great job.
Photo Credit:homemadebycarmona.com
DIY Upcycled Utensil Holder
This is another simple and quick little project that can be done in the afternoon. So if you’re bored with your plain utensil holder, this idea is excellent to add a little bit of character to your kitchen.
Photo Credit:http://claireabellemakes.com
DIY Upcycled Garden Planter
If you’ve got one of them cd racks stored away somewhere(who collects CDs nowadays?), you can quickly turn it into a planter. Claire, over at Claire Abbelle Makes, used fake flowers and put it in the garden. But I’m sure you could use some glass bottles, use fresh flowers and put it somewhere indoors.
Photo Credit:www.dwellbeautiful.com
Candle Jar Craft: Cotton Ball Holder
This cotton ball holder looks so glam and fancy and yet is super easy to make. You’ll only need a handful of supplies like an old, cleaned-out candle jar, brass candlestick, E-6000 glue, and a knob.
Photo Credit:www.hometalk.com
Bench Made From Old Bed Frame
This is another bed frame recycled project. So if you happen to have one lying around, why not try this idea out? Simple and easy to make. And the result is quite impressive.
Photo Credit:abeautifulmess.com
DIY Telephone Bookends
If you have some old phones collecting dust, you can easily turn them into these clever bookends. However, if you don’t but you really like the idea, you could give it a try and check Craig’s list or some other places. Garage sales would be a good idea too.
Photo Credit:cfabbridesigns.com
Beauty In A Light Bulb
If you’re like me and don’t like throwing things, you’ll love this project. Used lightbulbs turned into small art pieces or even glass candle holders.
Photo Credit:https://www.ehow.com
Wine bottles accent lights
If you have more wine bottles or any nice spirit bottles, this is another quick and very simple project. The steps in this tutorial include drilling in the glass. But if you’re not comfortable doing it, you can easily get around it and use battery-operated led lights with a bottle cork. They come in a variety of colors as well.
Photo Credit:www.realsimple.com
Old Books Into Shelves
Have you got any old books that you would never get to read and are just collecting dust? Why not create bookshelves out of real books? A simple idea for recycling unloved titles.
All you need is a power drill and some l-shaped brackets like these or, to add more character - the cast iron ones like these.
Old Mirror into a wreath
This DIY Fall wreath is a quick and easy upcycling project with an old metal frame mirror. I found this on a curbside, so I decided to give it another chance!
The mirror had a rope frame added later, and I turned the frame into a fabulous wreath, just in time for this colorful time of year—super easy fall decor idea.
Photo Credit:www.patioproductions.com
Wine Bottle Tiki Torch
Who doesn’t enjoy long, warm summer evenings? Sitting in a garden with a glass of wine or a book. I know I do. To enjoy it even more, you can add to the ambiance using warm lights and decorations. I love this blue bottle, torches. So easy to make and a fantastic way of adding that holiday, beachy feeling.
Photo Credit:www.countryliving.com
Tennis Racket Mirror
If you’re bored with old rectangular mirrors, this project may be right for you. Recycled old wooden tennis rackets turned into mirrors. They’re different and unique.
And pretty easy to make but require a professional to cut the mirror to the racket shape. Then you just need some strong glue or mounting tape, and it’s done!
Photo Credit:www.cutoutandkeep.net
Toilet Paper Roll Wall Art
This idea must be the cheapest one on this list, but it looks great, and it’s not difficult to make. All you need is a lot of toilet paper rolls and some supplies like glue, scissors, spray paint, and hairpins. And, of course, your imagination to create any design you like.
Photo Credit:www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com
Vintage Suitcase Makeover
If you happen to have one of these old suitcases and don’t know what to do with it, this idea can definitely help you. You can upcycle it to match your decor and use it to store your precious little bits.
I love what Christy from Confessions of the Serial DIYer has done with it. Check her post for full instructions.
Photo Credit:www.fynesdesigns.com
Upcycled Old Jewelry box
A lick of paint goes a long way with this little project. Plus some new hardware, and you get yourself a new-looking, cute jewelry box.
Photo Credit:www.thesprucecrafts.com
Chalkboard From An Old Picture Frame
Upcycle an old picture frame to a chalkboard and put it somewhere in the house. You can then leave cute messages for your loved ones, or if it’s a bigger size, perhaps use it as a notes board in the kitchen.
Photo Credit:craftinvaders.co.uk
Wire Lampshade Frames Plant Stands
Transform your old wire lampshade frames into stunning plant stands with this easy DIY tutorial! With just a few simple steps, you can upcycle vintage wire frames into industrial-style decor that will add a touch of chic to any room. Follow along with the step-by-step guide and give your plants a stylish new home that will look absolutely fabulous!
Photo Credit:www.lovelyetc.com
Upcycled Old Globe Light
Don't throw away that old globe stand just yet! With this simple DIY tutorial, you can turn it into a stunning lamp that will add a unique touch to any room. By upcycling an old globe, you'll not only create a beautiful lighting fixture, but you'll also help reduce waste and give new life to an old item.
Follow the step-by-step guide to create your own repurposed globe lamp and brighten up your space today!
Photo Credit:americanlifestylemag.com
Make Your Own Can Planters
Discover a greener way to refresh your home decor with this upcycling idea! Instead of buying new planters from the store, why not repurpose your empty food cans? This easy DIY project is not only eco-friendly but also a great way to add a unique touch to your space.
Follow the step-by-step guide to create your own one-of-a-kind planters and show off your green thumb with pride!
Photo Credit:www.lovelyetc.com
Upcycled Hardware Necklace
Get ready to make a bold statement with this DIY hardware necklace! Using old bras keyhole, this necklace has a vintage flair that's perfect for any style-savvy individual. With just a few simple steps, you can create your own unique necklace that's sure to turn heads.
Follow the easy tutorial and show off your creativity with this stylish upcycled accessory today!
Photo Credit:www.grosgrainfab.com
DIY Hurricane Lanterns Out of Dollar Store Frames
Create your own charming hurricane lanterns with this dollar store DIY hack! With just a few affordable supplies, you can transform dollar store frames into beautiful lanterns that will add a cozy glow to any room. This easy tutorial is perfect for both novice and experienced crafters alike.
Follow along and learn how to make your own DIY lanterns and light up your home in style!
Photo Credit:sarahjoyblog.com
DIY Farmhouse Candlesticks
Add a touch of farmhouse charm to your home decor with this easy DIY project! Using vintage spindles, you can create beautiful candlesticks that have a rustic, yet elegant appeal. This tutorial requires minimal supplies and is perfect for those who love farmhouse style.
Follow the step-by-step guide and create your own DIY candlesticks to add a cozy ambiance to your home today!
Photo Credit:www.redflycreations.com
Frame a Place to Hang Your Keys!
Transform your old frames into functional decor with this upcycling idea! By repurposing a frame, you can create a stylish key hanger that will keep your keys organized and add a unique touch to your space.
This easy DIY project requires minimal supplies and is perfect for those who love to repurpose and recycle. Follow the step-by-step guide and turn your old frames into a practical and chic key hanger today!
Photo Credit:www.oursouthernhomesc.com
DIY Thrift Store Farmhouse Candle Holder
Ditch the pricey store decor and give your home a unique, rustic touch for less with this budget-friendly DIY project! All you need are some thrift shop finds like cake pans and candlesticks to craft chic pieces that look straight out of an episode of Fixer Upper. Plus, it requires minimal supplies - so if upcycling is your thing, then this tutorial was made just for you!
Read on to see how easy it can be to transform any space into something special with just a few simple steps.
Photo Credit:https://diyprojects.com
DIY Mirror Tray
Ready to add a touch of sparkle and glam into any room? With this simple tutorial, you can make an elegant yet DIY mirrored vanity tray! A great project for both novice and experienced crafters alike, just grab some supplies and follow along. Show off your favorite perfume or beauty items in style – start crafting today with this unique addition to your home décor!
Photo Credit:cottageinstincts.blogspot.com
Old Windows Picture Frames
Revamp your home decor and make it absolutely one-of-a kind by upcycling old windows into stunning photo frames! Get excited to create a rustic, vintage gallery wall that will be the talk of all visiting friends. With this simple tutorial, you can finally put those old windows to use - transforming them into truly magical display pieces for your most treasured memories.
Let's bring these photos out today with some creative DIY magic!
Photo Credit:www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com
Drawer Shelf
Ready to feel like a magician by making something old new again? An upcycling DIY project is just the trick! Transform an unused drawer into a cool shelf, perfect for adding storage and style to your home. It's budget-friendly and eco-friendly - plus it comes with easy instructions that anyone can follow. Become the master of reinvention you always knew yourself to be - check out this tutorial now!
Photo Credit:www.remodelaholic.com
Wine bottle light pendant
I wish I could try to make this one, but unfortunately, the ceilings in my house are way too low 🙁
The steps are easy to follow, and you can experiment with different wine bottle colors, too(like clear or even blue). Check the tutorial at Remodaholic or watch the video below.
So, what do you think? Are you inspired to take on a new upcycling project? I hope so! These ideas are cheap and easy to make, and they can really brighten up your home or workspace. If you’re feeling creative, why not try making one of these projects your own?
Don’t forget to pin it to your upcycling ideas board:)
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Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or opinions, but I can provide you with information on the concepts mentioned in this article. Here's a breakdown of the different upcycling ideas mentioned:
Plastic Bottles Into Faux Concrete Candlestick Holders
- This upcycling project involves transforming used plastic bottles into candlestick holders with a faux concrete/stone finish.
- The project is considered easy and can be a great addition to home decor.
- You can find more information and a tutorial on the Elizabeth Joan Designs website [[1]].
Boxes into Baskets
- This idea suggests upcycling unwanted boxes into pretty storage baskets.
- The tutorial for creating the baskets and basket liners can be found on the Elizabeth Joan Designs website [[2]].
Coffee Cans to Plant Pots
- This project involves repurposing coffee cans into plant pots.
- The process is simple and requires some spray 2-in-1 primer and paint, a power drill, clothesline rope, and seashell necklaces (or other decorative elements).
- The final results can be suitable for a beach/marine-themed interior.
- You can find more information and a tutorial on the Little House of Four website [[3]].
Recycled Glass Jars
- This project suggests using recycled glass jars as storage jars for various purposes, such as in the kitchen or for art supplies.
- The jars can be decorated with scrapbook paper, metallic paint, or glitter.
- For more details and inspiration, you can visit the Decorating Cents blog [[4]].
Paint Stirrers Mirror
- This idea involves creating a mirror using paint stir sticks.
- The process is simple and requires paint stir sticks, a round mirror, stain, gorilla glue, a wall hanger, and other basic supplies.
- The tutorial can be found on The Verden blog [[5]].
Crate Shelves
- This project suggests using wooden crates to create shelving space.
- The crates can be painted or stained and then hung on the wall in an organized composition.
- The idea originated from Thea's Mania blog, which is a non-English site, but you can use a browser like Brave to translate the tutorial to English [[6]].
Recycled Soda Can Wall Art
- This project involves creating wall art using recycled soda cans.
- The tutorial provides instructions on how to cut and shape the cans to create unique designs.
- The end result is a creative and eco-friendly piece of art.
These are just a few of the upcycling ideas mentioned in the article. Each project offers a creative way to repurpose everyday items and give them new life. Remember, upcycling is a great way to reduce waste and add a personal touch to your home decor.
