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.

 

craft ideas

 

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.

 

 

craft ideas

 

 

 

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?

 

Penny Embellished Picture Frame

penny embellished frame

Looking for a unique gift for a friend.  Try making this penny embellished picture frame.  You can use it to frame a picture or a printable.  It’s unique and budget friendly too.  So, pick up a gold frame from the Dollar Tree or your favorite dollar store, and let the fun begin.

You will need the following items:

  • Gold Frame (I used a 4 x 6)
  • Glue gun
  • New pennies
  • Wet cloth

 

 

A 4 x 6 frame uses approximately 32 pennies.  The size of your frame will determine the number of pennies needed. I started at the bottom and moved around the frame.  Ensure the pennies are heads up and fairly new.  After all, if you will be giving it as a gift you want the frame to shine.

First, remove the paper from the picture frame and replace it with one of the quotes. You will one to complete this step first.  Trying to insert your quote after the pennies have been glued to the frame can be difficult.  The pennies have a tendencies to fall off if you place the frame face down.

Check out our quotes and feel free to download one for your frame.  I didn’t include a border because I didn’t want to distract from the frame once the quote was added.  Sometimes less is more.

penny quotes

 

Place a dab of glue on the back of each penny, and press it on the frame.  I found that the hot glue held the pennies in place better than the Elmer’s glue.  If your children will be working on the frame, Elmer’s glue may be better.

However, don’t place a large amount of glue on the pennies.  Pressure will cause the glue to spread, so you don’t want an excessive amount on the pennies.  Position the penny on the frame.  Wipe any glue mishaps before it dries.  Cover the entire frame with pennies.

penny embellished frame

 

 

Last, once the pennies have been added, allow the frame to set overnight to ensure the pennies are not disturbed.  We hope you like our embellished picture frame.  Finally, use your penny stash and a dollar frame to create this awesome gift.

How To Dry Orange Slices

dried oranges, dried fruit, Christmas displays
I love for my house to smell good all year.  During the holiday season, I love drying oranges and apples.  I love burning candles and making displays in my home with natural materials.  They usually include orange or apple slices and cinnamon sticks.  Today I’ll show you how to dry orange slices.   It’s easy and they look and smell great in display.

You will need the following:

  • oranges (use large or medium oranges, the slices will shrink)
  • cinnamon sticks

The first step is to preheat your oven to its lowest setting.  Mine is 170 degreesSlice your oranges medium to thick,  you don’t want them to be  too thin.  You also don’t want the slices to be too small.  The slices will shrink as they’re drying and will fall through the cracks of your racks.  If you have a large cookie cooling  rack you can layer your slices on the cooking rack.   Otherwise your oven rack will work just as well.   A cookie sheet will also do. 

drying orange slices, dried orange slices


Allow the slices to dry for 2-3 hours. 
I usually dry my slices on a Saturday when I don’t have to rush or run errands. I set the timer for 2 hours and determine if they’re dry enough or if I want them to dry longer.  If so, I set the timer for another 15 – 30 minutes.

Once I’m satisfied with the texture of the slices I add cinnamon and or cloves.  You can also add fresh greenery.  Spruce, Pine or Cyprus will work great.  You can also add cinnamon pine cones.  Be creative and enjoy this wonderful smell.  The slices will darken as time goes on.  Also the longer you leave them in the oven, the darker they will get.

 

dried fruits, Christmas greenery, dried orange slices