You don’t need a closet full of tools or a workshop to get into upcycling. Sometimes, all it takes is a few items you would toss anyway. Turning trash into something useful or beautiful isn’t just good for the planet; it can also be fun, creative, and surprisingly easy.
Upcycling works for all skill levels. Some projects are perfect for kids, while others can give your home a full-on design upgrade without spending a dime. Here’s a collection of simple ideas to try using materials you probably already have at home.
Kid-Friendly Upcycling Projects
Getting kids involved in upcycling teaches them how to reuse what they have while giving them something hands-on and creative to do. These easy projects use common household materials and don’t require much supervision—just a little setup and cleanup.
Cereal Box Notebooks
Cut down an empty cereal box into two covers, punch holes in the top, and fill with paper to create a DIY sketchbook or journal. (Check out a tutorial here.)
Kids can decorate the cover with stickers, markers, or magazine clippings.
Toilet Paper Roll Creatures
Save those cardboard tubes and turn them into owls, rockets, or bugs. All it takes is some glue, googly eyes, and bits of paper or fabric. You can even make a full zoo out of recycled rolls.
Tin Can Planters
Clean out soup or veggie cans, then paint and decorate them with craft supplies. Add potting soil and plant seeds like basil or wildflowers. It’s a good way to introduce kids to gardening without taking up much space.
Puzzle Piece Magnets
Have a puzzle with missing pieces? Turn the leftovers into magnets. Paint or decorate each piece, glue a small magnet to the back, and stick them on the fridge.
Upcycling for Everyday Use
Not every upcycled project has to be decorative. Some of the most practical ideas involve giving old stuff a new role around the house. These ideas help reduce waste while solving everyday problems like storage, organization, and clutter.
Glass Jar Organizers
Instead of tossing out pasta sauce or pickle jars, clean them up and use them to store pantry foods, bathroom supplies, desk items, or art tools.
Add chalkboard labels or spray-paint the lids for a more polished look. They also work well in the kitchen for spices or dry snacks.
T-Shirt Tote Bags
Old shirts can easily become reusable bags, and you don’t even have to sew if you don’t want to.
Cut off the sleeves, trim the neckline, and tie the bottom shut for an instant tote. These are handy for library runs, groceries, or even toy storage. (Try this no-sew tutorial.)
Wine Cork Coasters
If you save wine corks, glue them together to create easy coasters. Cut them in half lengthwise and glue them into a circle or square pattern. They’re surprisingly durable and make great gifts, too.
Repurposed Candle Jars
Don’t toss out empty candles. Clean out the leftover wax and reuse the jars as pen holders, small planters, or containers for cotton balls in the bathroom.
Simple tip: Keep a box labeled “reuse” somewhere in your home. Toss in anything that might come in handy later—jars, boxes, lids, fabric scraps, or packaging.
Home Decor Projects That Look High-End
Some upcycled pieces don’t just look homemade—they look handcrafted. These projects work well if you’re ready to tackle something a little more creative, and the final product can easily blend into your decor.
Old Ladder Shelf
An unused wooden ladder can become a stylish shelf. Sand it, paint it if you like, and lean it against a wall. Add plants, folded towels, or books.
This works especially well in bathrooms or bedrooms for a rustic touch.
Revamped Frames
Old photo frames are easy to update. Spray-paint them, replace the backing with fabric or wallpaper, or use chalkboard paint to turn them into message boards.
Group a few together on a wall for an easy gallery setup.
Painted Wine Bottles or Vases
Tall bottles or old vases can be transformed with a coat of matte paint. Go for all-white or soft pastels to match your space. Add twine or metallic details for something more modern.
These decor ideas prove you don’t need to be a pro to give your home a thoughtful refresh.
One Person’s Trash, Your Next Weekend Project
Upcycling doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With a few basic tools and a little imagination, it’s easy to turn everyday items into something useful, personal, or just plain fun.
Whether crafting with your kids or reworking pieces for your home, these simple projects are a great way to cut waste, save money, and add creativity to your routine.
Look around before you throw something out because your next DIY idea might already be in the recycling bin.