{"id":1696,"date":"2023-07-07T11:26:20","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T11:26:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theboonroom.com\/?p=1696"},"modified":"2023-07-07T11:26:20","modified_gmt":"2023-07-07T11:26:20","slug":"upcycling-projects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theboonroom.com\/blog\/upcycling-projects","title":{"rendered":"Unique Upcycling Projects for Home Decor"},"content":{"rendered":"

Upcycling projects are a fantastic outlet for self-expression and passion. There are SO many ways a person can introduce sustainability into their lives. Sustainability is a balance between economic growth, caring for and protecting the environment, and promoting social well-being. And, while this isn\u2019t a new concept, it has grown in popularity in recent years due to the increased awareness of how our actions impact the world around us. Even the smallest steps can make a significant difference when it comes to making conscious shopping, traveling, and artistic choices.<\/p>\n

Many artists \u2013 both novice and experienced \u2013 are exploring their creative outlets through upcycling art projects. Upcycled art is the process of taking recycled waste and turning it into something new. It is essentially seeing promise in something that might otherwise spend years, if not decades, in a landfill.<\/p>\n

Home d\u00e9cor is what transforms your spaces into something that represents you. It is what helps make your house feel like a home. However, home d\u00e9cor can be expensive and is often made with materials that can\u2019t be recycled. When someone decides to redecorate, their old d\u00e9cor may then end up in a landfill. When it is time to revive the rooms of your home, consider skipping the big box store and turn to your own creative abilities.<\/p>\n

You don\u2019t have to be an artistic genius to have some fun, get creative, and dive into an upcycling art project.<\/p>\n

The Importance of Upcycling<\/h2>\n

Upcycled art in itself is a form of recycling. It helps to reduce waste and put fewer items in the landfill. Landfills have several adverse effects on your health and environment. Materials and wastes left to decompose release pollutants into the air and increase the amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Waste that fills landfills also produces toxic chemicals that could find their way into our water supplies. Much of the materials that could be found at a landfill could have been recycled or repurposed in some way.<\/p>\n

Upcycling can create positive changes in the cycle of consumerism. Products have to be created, put on the shelf, purchased, and utilized. Sadly, after this process, they are usually eventually wasted. This life cycle of consumerism impacts our environment due to the energy used in producing these goods and products. Upcycling reduces the energy necessary to produce goods and decreases the need for new raw materials to be introduced into the cycle. When you upcycle, you are making a significant impact that promotes more sustainable practices.<\/p>\n

Upcycling in any manner, even if it is not artistic, helps reduce our carbon footprint. Finding ways to reuse products can help decrease a demanding cycle of consumerism that impacts our health and the environment.<\/p>\n

DIY Upcycling Projects<\/h2>\n

These fun, creative upcycling art projects are a great way to tap into your artistic side. You\u2019ll love how easy they are to do and how they can transform your space. When it comes to home decor, there are endless possibilities. You\u2019ll find so many ways to reuse items that once felt like junk. Whether this is your first project or your thousandth, get ready to be creative!<\/p>\n

Vintage Suitcase Shelves<\/h3>\n

\"Vintage<\/p>\n

Whether you have a closet full of unused suitcases at home or you enjoy a little thrift shopping, you\u2019ll love the look these shelves can add to your home! Most luggage is made with non-recyclable material, which means they could spend a long life in a landfill. If you\u2019ve been craving more room to add plants, d\u00e9cor, or photographs to your walls, these shelves are a perfect project.<\/p>\n

To begin, you\u2019ll need your suitcases. Look for options that provide various widths and colors. You also want suitcases that are still in good shape, though they do not have to be functional. You can look for options at thrift stores, flea markets, and garage sales. You are also going to need:<\/p>\n

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  • <\/i> Blue tape<\/li>\n
  • <\/i> Saw<\/li>\n
  • <\/i> Brackets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
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    • <\/i> Plywood panels<\/li>\n
    • <\/i> Nails<\/li>\n
    • <\/i> Glue<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n

      There are a few easy steps to create eye-catching shelves that are sure to elevate the look of any space by upcycling suitcases.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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      1. You\u2019ll first want to choose a depth and use the blue tape to create your perimeter. Remove any lining or fabric that could get caught in the blade.<\/li>\n
      2. You\u2019ll then cut the suitcase. Be sure to watch for hardware and be certain that your saw is designed to handle metal. You\u2019ll likely cut through a variety of materials.<\/li>\n
      3. Now it\u2019s time to hang! Depending on the amount of weight you intend to put on the suitcases, you may only need angle brackets. If you want to increase strength, you can glue and nail plywood panels to the suitcase and use studs or anchors to hold.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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        Wine Bottle Chandelier<\/h3>\n
        \"Wine
        Caption: Image via Your Projects@OBN<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        Glass bottles can be used to create a wide range of creative upcycling art projects. From wine bottles, liquor bottles, mason jars, and everything in between. Your options are truly endless. Glass can be colored, cut, shaped, and utilized to make breathtaking centerpieces and even chandeliers.<\/p>\n

        To create your own wine bottle chandelier, you\u2019ll need:<\/strong>
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        • <\/i> Clean wine bottles \u2013 six to ten is a good number depending on the desired design and size of your chandelier<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> 1 spool of twine<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> 1 spool of clear elastic cord<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> Battery-operated twist lights, one for each bottle<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> Wood discs- medium and large sizes<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> Frame- metal, wood, or other recycled materials<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> Hot glue gun and glue sticks<\/li>\n
        • <\/i> Scissors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\nWhen you have all your materials gathered, you are ready to begin:<\/strong><\/p>\n
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          1. You\u2019ll want to start by cutting off the bottoms of the bottles, though you can choose to leave them whole.<\/li>\n
          2. You\u2019ll then thread a medium-sized wood disc onto the twine and thread it into the neck of the bottle. Use the larger wood disc to tie the end in a knot to secure.<\/li>\n
          3. Cut a piece of elastic that is around 7\u201d long. Thread one end through the twist light loop and pull together. Once that is set, pull the top end of the twine so that the wood disc is in the neck of the bottle. Add glue to prevent shifting and tie a knot in the twine to hold the bottom disc and light.<\/li>\n
          4. Cut the twine to your desired hanging length, leaving some room to tie securely. Repeat for each bottle.<\/li>\n
          5. You\u2019ll then have to determine your desired length as you add your bottles to your frame.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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            Book Planter<\/h3>\n
            \"Upcycling
            Caption: image via hallmarkchannel.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

            If you are looking for a project that is simple, easy, and adds beauty to your home, then a book planter is the perfect craft. You have to try this one. Book planters are a great way to put to use those books just sitting on your shelf collecting dust. This project is also a great excuse for adding more plant life to your home or office. To get started you\u2019ll need:
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            • <\/i> A book (libraries often have free books they are discarding if you don\u2019t have any to part with)<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> White glue<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> Pen<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> ScissorsX-Acto knife<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> Ruler<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> 1-quart zip-loc bag<\/li>\n
            • <\/i> Your choice of plant \u2013 succulents work great!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\nOnce you have all the materials you need, you\u2019re ready to get started. To create your eye-catching repurposed book planter:<\/strong><\/p>\n
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              1. You\u2019ll want to start by gluing the pages of the book together. Simply glue along the sides, gently pressing the glue into the paper. Don\u2019t glue the paper to the cover. Wait for the glue to dry, for at least 20 minutes.<\/li>\n
              2. Measure and mark the circumference of the space you want for your plant. Keep in mind you want to leave plenty of room for the roots. Measure and trace the area you need to cut using the first page of the book.<\/li>\n
              3. Use your X-Acto knife to cut the box you\u2019ve measured. You\u2019ll have to repeat this step numerous times to get the depth you need for your plant.<\/li>\n
              4. Line your box with your plastic bag, ensuring you have enough to cover the bottom and sides. Place your desired plant inside and cut away excess plastic.<\/li>\n
              5. Fill with dirt and enjoy!<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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                Magazine Coasters<\/h3>\n
                \"Caption:
                Caption: Image via Instructables<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

                Magazines are often enjoyed briefly, given a single read-through before ending up in the garbage. Coasters are a great way to reuse this material and keep water rings off your furniture!<\/p>\n

                All you need is: <\/strong>
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