Upcycling

Upcycling: Transforming waste materials or used items (a.k.a. obtainium) into something new and useful, thereby reducing waste in a creative way.

I’ve been upcycling for most of my life, long before I’d ever heard the term. My inspiration really comes from being frugal, my love of old stuff and most of all, I hate buying new things when our world is so cluttered with disposable stuff.

I challenge myself to use old junk instead of buying new junk. Below are a few ideas I’ve come up with…

Kitchenware = succulent gardens

Vintage pillow case + ribbon = Gift wrap

French antique wine bottle dryer = Steampunk Christmas tree

Wool sweater + yarn = fingerless mittens

Wood stove + stepping stone = patio table

Bird bath = succulent nursery

Old clothes + ties = Utility Bustle

Old ladder + window frame = trellis

Toilet = succulent garden

Radio Flyer = rolling plant shelf

Studded belt = Steampunk hat band

Drawer pull = Steampunk hat detail

Cabinet door + old teacup hooks = key rack

Wooden soda crates = Desk shelving

Tablecloth = Bloomers

Rusty teapot = Succulent Tea Garden

Binocular case = Steampunk hip pouch

Wooden box + brackets = Bathroom shelf

DIY Upcycled Gift-Making