DIYes rejoice. Upcycling is the hot trend that’s finding its way into every home. For good reason too. Many who are looking to go green and on a budget are taking pride in the ability to transform something old into a new, beautiful object to display.

You can find inspiration for your next upcycling project nearly everywhere. But, to help, here are a few unique upcycling ideas you can use in your home.

Looking for ways to improve your space? Contact a remodeling contractor today for up to four quotes from pros in your area, for free!

What Is Upcycling?

If you’ve ever reused an object for another purpose other than the intended, you’ve upcycled. You’re creating something new out of an old, unusable object. It’s a green way to decorate your home because you’re not throwing out an item and finding purpose for something that would otherwise end up in a landfill. The key to upcycling is using the same materials to create something new.

Upcycling takes creativity and innovation, which is why many DIYers who are looking for a new challenge turn to upcycling. You can go to your local secondhand store or simply look around your house to find something to upcycle.

Upcycling Projects

If you’re considering a new upcycling project, start with what you already have. Is there an old piece of furniture that’s been in storage? Maybe multiples of the same item you simply don’t know what to do with? Look around your home for inspiration waiting to be found.

If you have a specific project in mind, try looking at a local secondhand or thrift store for the object you need to get started. Here are a few projects to keep in mind:

• Upcycled Furniture
• Upcycled Dresser
• Upcycled Doors
• Upcycled Glass Bottles
• Upcycled Chandelier
• Upcycled Yard Decor

1. Upcycled Furniture

Furniture is where many DIYers turn first when it comes to upcycling, simply because there are so many options. Old dressers can be repainted and restructured to become just what your kitchen needs. An ugly coffee table can be turned into a beautiful bench for your entryway. I love the idea of taking an old headboard and transforming it into a chalkboard with hooks that can be used almost anywhere in the home. Beyond The Picket Fence provides an excellent tutorial for this.

2. Upcycled Dresser Drawers

If you’ve decided to upcycle your dresser into extra open storage for the kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, you might be wondering what to do with the drawers. After all, one of the keys to upcycling is to not be wasteful and have extra parts end up a landfill. For pet owners, this is the perfect opportunity to pamper your furry friend. Create a pet bed out of the extra drawers. This is usually a project that is best for cats and smaller dogs. It’s an easy project that shouldn’t take more than an afternoon to complete. See the tutorial from DIY Showoff.

3. Upcycled Doors

Old doors make the perfect upcycling project. They are uniquely shaped and can be transformed into almost any surface. Create a unique coffee table by sizing the door to your desired length and adding some legs on the end. Or, make your bedroom décor pop with an old door headboard. Be careful however, older doors may have lead paint on them which may need to be stripped before creating anything new.

4. Upcycled Glass Bottles

If you’ve been looking for the perfect way to use extra glass bottles, you’re in luck. Upcycling glass bottles is one of the easiest projects you can do. Start by stripping the bottle of any labels that may be on it. You can usually do this by soaking them in hot water for about 20 minutes, then gently scrubbing the label off. From there, you have endless options. Use glass paint to decorate how you’d like. Stick fresh flowers in it to create a vase or a candlestick in the opening for the ultimate DIY centerpiece.

5. Upcycled Chandelier

Over time, chandeliers can become worn and out-of-date. But, they are the perfect canvas to create something new. Chalk paint provides an easy opportunity to transform the piece completely, giving a new look to your light fixture. For outdoor décor, remove all electrical components and use as a hanging planter.

However, chandeliers are hot right now in the interior as well. See this tutorialfrom Mountain Modern Life on how you can dress up an old chandelier.

6. Upcycled Yard Décor

When considering yard décor, remember that you don’t have to spend a fortune. With a little bit of weatherproofing, objects that are normally found indoors can become just what you need to make your yard stand out. Here are a few ideas:

• Use an old calendar and twine to become a hanging planter.
• Transform an old tire by hot gluing rope around the perimeter to create a seat.
• Hang an old pallet to create a hanging garden where you can grow herbs or flowers.

Conclusion

Upcyling is a fun trend that any fan of DIY projects will love. It’s great because it starts at home, with objects you already have, so you can easily work within your budget to create something one-of-a kind. Additionally, you’ll be making the earth a better place by reusing instead of throwing something out.