The Best Household Materials For Upcycling

Discover materials that virtually every household has that can be used to create unique, upcycled art!

Upcycling is a creative and sustainable way to give old items a new life. Instead of throwing things away, you can transform them into something useful and beautiful. And the great news is, you often don’t have to look very far for materials… they can usually be found right in your own house! In this article, we’ll explore some of the best materials for upcycling that are not only easy to find but also fun to work with.

1. Glass Jars and Bottles
Glass jars, think sauce jars, jams, or beverages, are super versatile. Once cleaned they can be used for storage, vases, or even as decorative candle holders. You can also add some paint or twine and create stylish home decor. Glass is durable and can be easily customized, making it one of the most popular materials for upcycling.

2. Old Clothes and Fabric Scraps
Instead of throwing away old clothing, start thinking about how you can upcycle it. T-shirts can be turned into tote bags, and old jeans can be repurposed into a purse or even a cool patchwork quilt. Fabric scraps can also be used to make reusable cloths, rag rugs, or decorative garlands. Upcycling fabric reduces textile waste and can help you create unique, personalized items for your home.

3. Wooden Pallets and Crates
Wooden pallets and crates are often thrown out but have endless potential for upcycling. They can be transformed into outdoor furniture, shelves, and even vertical gardens. With some sanding and a fresh coat of paint that old wood sitting in your garage can look brand new. The sturdy nature of wooden pallets makes them ideal for creating rustic, functional home pieces.

4. Plastic Bottles
Reducing plastic waste should be at the top of our checklists, and there are indeed ways to repurpose plastic bottles you can find around the house. They can be cut and shaped into planters, bird feeders, or even hanging organizers. By decorating or painting them, plastic bottles can be turned into colorful and functional household items. Upcycling plastic also helps reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics.

Upcycling household items not only reduces waste but also adds a personal and creative touch to your home. By embracing upcycling, you not only help the environment but also discover the joy of turning what was once considered trash into treasure. So, the next time you’re about to throw something away, think twice because your next upcycling project might be just around the corner!

Learn more about upcycling on Domestika:
Fashion upcycling: Create a backpack with second-hand clothes, by Luisa Hurtado