Here’s to a kind of spring cleaning that’s more than just tidying. It’s the season for metamorphosis, after all—blooms breaking through bleak winter earth, colors bursting back into life. But what about your home? Can it shake off the dust and emerge transfigured?
Upcycling isn’t just about reusing; it’s a philosophy. It’s about giving new life to items that have served their initial purpose. It’s eco-friendly, yes, but it’s also an art. The art of taking notice, of seeing beauty and potential where there wasn’t any at first glance.
If I’ve learned anything from my upcycling adventures, every piece of junk has a hidden value waiting to be untapped. Your home and world outside the window will thank you for the added flair and reduced carbon footprint.
If you need some inspirational videos on upcycling, head over to Instagram, Tiktok, or Youtube and type thrift to style. The videos show thrifted items that are repurposed. It will give you some much-needed inspiration.
Old Boots Turned Planters
Those worn-out boots you’ve meant to throw out can make unique, rustic planters. Just fill ’em up with soil, pop in some spring flowers, and voila! Your porch just got a charming makeover.
I really like using the kids old rainboots for flowers.
Mismatched Cups as Candle Holders
Got a collection of mismatched tea cups? Give them a new purpose by turning them into whimsical candle holders. They’re perfect for those cozy spring nights on the patio.
Here is a step-by-step on how to do it.
Vintage Ladder Shelf
That old ladder gathering dust in your garage? Clean it up, give it a coat of pastel paint, and use it as a quirky shelf for your spring decor or plants. Talk about climbing the ladder of DIY success!
I like that they added old barn wood for the shelves.
Mason Jar Magic
Mason jars aren’t just for preserves anymore. Fill them with fairy lights for a twinkling centerpiece, or with layers of different colored sands or pebbles for a pop of spring color.
Book Page Wreath
Have a damaged or outdated book? Rip out the pages and create a beautiful wreath for your front door. It’s a novel idea for spring decor, don’t you think?
There are so many different ways you can do this. Check out the ideas here.
Picture Frame Tray
Transform an old picture frame into a stylish tray. Add handles and a layer of pretty wallpaper or fabric where the photo used to be. It’s perfect for serving those springtime lemonades!
Wine Cork Bulletin Board
If you’ve been saving wine corks, now’s the time to use them. Glue them together to create a bulletin board. It’s a stylish way to display spring photos or your kids’ art. Regular push pins work fine in these boards.
Of you can create a design that is purely for decorations.
Old Jeans Garden Apron
Turn an old pair of jeans into a practical garden apron. It’s perfect for pottering around in the garden this spring. This is such a cute pair and a great tutorial on Creative Green Living blog.
Tin Can Lanterns
Those empty tin cans can be punched with holes to create enchanting lanterns for your backyard. Just add tealights!
Dresser Drawer Planters
If you have an old dresser that’s seen better days, pull out the drawers and use them as quirky planters for your spring blooms.
Old T-Shirt Tote Bags
You know that concert tee from 2005 you just can’t part with? Well, it’s about to go on tour again… as a tote bag! It’s perfect for those spring farmer’s market trips.
Old Animal Feed Tote Bags
I’ve seen several homesteaders turn those plastic feed bags from their chickens, pigs, goats, etc, into reusable bags!
Bottle Cap Magnets
Those beer bottle caps you’ve been collecting have finally found their calling. With a little glue and magnet, voila! Your fridge just got a funky makeover.
Wine Bottle Bird Feeder
Think twice before tossing that wine bottle. With a little tweaking, it could be serving up a feast for your feathered friends this spring.
CD Mosaic Birdbath
Remember CDs? Yeah, me neither, just KIDDING! But if you have some gathering dust, they make for a glossy, eye-catching mosaic on an old birdbath.
Cardboard Box Playhouse
Got boxes left over from the winter holiday deliveries? Hand them over to the kids and let their imagination run wild. It’s like a spring break vacation in your living room!
Broken China Mosaic Planters
Don’t cry over broken china. Instead, turn those shards into a stunning mosaic on your planters. Your garden’s about to become the talk of the town.
License Plate Garden Art
That old license plate can take a road trip to your garden, serving as funky wall art. It’s sure to drive up compliments from your neighbors.
Cereal Box Magazine Holders
Empty cereal boxes can be transformed into colorful magazine holders. Just add craft paper and you’re ready for spring cleaning!
Tire Swing
That old tire in your garage? It’s about to become the best seat in the house, err… yard. A little rope, a sturdy tree, and your tire swing is ready for springtime fun.
Pallet Wood Pathway
Got old wooden pallets lying around? Break them down and use the planks to create a charming garden pathway. It’s like a walk in the park but in your backyard.
And there you have it – 20 ways to give your old stuff a new lease on life this spring! Remember, the key to a great DIY project is a dash of creativity, a sprinkle of patience, and a whole lot of fun.
So roll up your sleeves and let your imagination run wild. Happy repurposing!