Smart Upcycling Ideas for Crafts

Today, I’m sharing upcycling ideas for crafts.  Upcycling is a great way to use things that you might otherwise throw away.  It could be something that could be used for a new crafting project or two.  It’s great for the environment, good for your bank account and lots of fun.

Here are a few smart upcycling ideas for crafts that you may want to try:

Turn Old T-Shirts into a Blanket

Most of us have old t-shirts.  They’re important wardrobe staples.  But, what do we do with them when they’re no longer in style or they’ve ceased to fit any longer? One idea, is to get out the sewing machine and turn those t-shirts into a beautiful blanket. This works particularly well for old t-shirts and other tops that have big, bold graphics on them.  But, any old shirts can be used.  Add trimmings of lace or fringe to the edges and you’ll create something really special. It’s so easy to do too.  You literally just have to cut the shirts into squares and sew them together.  You could do that in a weekend!

Turn Socks into Leggings

If you happen to have a little one running around and a lot of socks that you don’t really wear, you could turn those socks into itty bitty leggings.  Those leggings can save you a few dollars and give your kid something unique to wear. If you’re a basic sewer, it’s a project you should be able to do in a few hours.

Washi Tape Photo Frames

Are your photo frames old and out of style? Don’t get rid of them, washi tape them. Washi tape is basically a low-tack sticky tape that comes in a range of colors and designs.  They were originally based on the delicate patterns of origami paper, and it is wonderful stuff for any crafter. You can use it for myriad things from wrapping presents to making over your bicycle with a fantastic new design.  But, one of the very simplest projects for washi tape is improving your photo frames.  Literally, all you have to do is cut out and stick pieces of tape over the existing frame in any way you fancy. Trust me, it’ll look great.

Mod Podge Shoes

Got a pair of shoes that are still perfectly fine to wear, but which have been scuffed beyond repair? Cut up some comics, wallpaper, or magazines and stick them onto your shoes in the form of a collage using Mod Podge. When it’s dry, apply another layer to seal, using a foam brush to avoid brushstrokes, and let dry. You’ll have a “brand new” one of a kind pair of shoes to wear to that party in no time at all.

Transform Drawers into Side Tables

Turning old drawers into side tables is so easy and so stylish. All you have to do is remove the drawers from your old unit.  Next,  turn them on their sides and attach a couple of legs, which you can make out of scrap wood or buy at any decent craft store, to the bottom. You can then use MDF to create shelves with on the drawer cavity if you desire.  Or, leave the cavity whole to display bigger items.

Use Your Old Vinyl as Funky Bowls

Vinyl records might be back in fashion, but if you’ve got a few lying around that are no longer worth much or which are not playable, you can still put them to good use by turning them into funky retro serving bowls. All you have to do is place your records over an ovenproof bowl on a baking tray with a can on top to weigh it down. Place into the oven at 200°F and bake for 10 minutes.  The record will start to warp and mold itself to the bowl. You can then gently mold it into shape with your hands.

Turn Sweaters into Pillows

Sweaters are so darn comfy that it seems a shame to throw them out when they get past their best, but you really don’t need to do that. Sweaters can very easily be turned into cute pillowcases that are perfect for creating that hygge look around the home.

Last, as you can see upcycling ideas for crafts comes in many forms.  And, it can help you to create all manner of wonderfully inventive items from stuff that would otherwise have ended up in the trash, so why not give it a go. What will you make today?