5 Easy Upcycles for Your Home

8/4/2020

It’s been more than a month since I moved into my little fixer-upper. As I wrap up some major home improvement projects, I’ve been able to shift my focus to décor and details. This is the fun part!

Giving new life to old things is one of my favorite ways to decorate and freshen up a space, especially when that space itself is 150+ years old. Old houses may have plumbing problems, leaky roofs and an occasional ghost, but they also have character. And that makes them the perfect canvas for creative upcycling and vintage finds. Plus, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars on home décor by transforming trash into treasure.

My new upcycled living room

Pinterest and HGTV are great for inspiration, but the complexity of some home projects can be intimidating. Luckily, there are tons of simple projects that don’t require expensive tools or special skills to complete. These spoonie-friendly upcycles can be done in an afternoon, and they’re guaranteed to make a statement!

1. Lampshade Love

Show an old lampshade some love with colorful fringe. I was inspired by the bright tassels on my living room curtains, and this easy project carried the look through the entire room. Just glue your fringe to the inside of the shade and voilà!

2. Bike Basket Storage

Old bike baskets make fabulous, functional storage containers. And they’re versatile! I just attached the straps to a towel bar, and now I have a handy place to store hand towels and washcloths.

3. Mailbox Makeover

My mailbox was hiding major cute potential under coats of old paint and rust. A fresh coat of paint to match my new shutters is all it took to dress up the porch and add a pop of color. Never underestimate the power of a thoughtfully-chosen and strategically-placed statement color.

4. Window Dressing

Nothing in my old house is a standard size, including the windows. Not surprisingly, I couldn’t find store-bought curtains in the size I needed. But as I unpacked, I discovered an apron that just happens to be the exact dimensions of this kitchen window. And it even has pockets!

5. Tin Can Lamp

Lamp kits make it easy to turn just about anything into an upcycled lamp. I filled this old whiskey tin with rocks, punched a hole in the bottom and attached a lightbulb. Now I have a one-of-a-kind bedside reading light!

What’s your favorite upcycled project? Tell me in the comments!

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