11 DIY Upcycling Projects for a Stylish, Budget-Friendly Home
DIY upcycling projects help you reuse old items in creative ways to improve your home without spending much money.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Upcycling gives old or unused household items a second life by turning them into something useful or decorative. It’s a smart way to save money and reduce waste while adding personality to your space. These projects are simple, budget-friendly, and can be done using tools and materials you may already have.
1. Turn Glass Jars into Storage Containers
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
Empty glass jars from sauces or pickles can be cleaned and reused as storage for pantry items, small tools, or bathroom goods. Label each jar with a marker or sticker to keep things organized. If you want a cleaner look, you can spray paint the lids or remove the labels. Glass jars are strong and clear, making it easy to see what’s inside.
2. Use Old T-Shirts as Cleaning Rags or Pillow Covers
Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels
Instead of throwing out old t-shirts, cut them into squares for cleaning rags. They are soft, washable, and work well for dusting or wiping surfaces. If the fabric is in good shape, you can also sew it into a simple pillow cover. This reduces textile waste and gives your home a handmade touch.
3. Turn a Wooden Ladder into a Shelf or Towel Rack
Max Vakhtbovycn on Pexels
If you have an old ladder, it can be leaned against a wall to hold towels, blankets, or books. Make sure it’s stable and clean before using it indoors. You can sand it down and add a coat of paint or wood stain to match your space. This is a useful way to reuse a bulky item that might otherwise be thrown out.
4. Transform Tin Cans into Planters or Holders
Ron Lach on Pexels
Clean tin cans can be repurposed as small planters for herbs or as holders for pens and tools. You can decorate the outside with paint, paper, or twine. Make small drainage holes in the bottom if you plan to use it for plants. These are especially useful in small kitchens or workspaces.
5. Repurpose an Old Door into a Tabletop or Headboard
Ivan Samkov on Wikimedia Commons
A solid wooden door can be turned into a dining table surface or a headboard for a bed. Sand it well and paint or seal it to fit your interior style. You can add legs or wall mounts depending on your project. This saves money and makes use of something that is often left behind during renovations.
6. Use Mason Jar Lids as Coasters or Organizers
Kate on Pexels
Mason jar lids can be reused as coasters or holders for small items like jewelry, paper clips, or buttons. You can glue cork, felt, or fabric inside for extra grip or decoration. Keep a few on desks or counters to catch small clutter. It’s a simple way to reduce waste and keep your space tidy.
7. Turn Wine Corks into a Bulletin Board
Anastasiya Vragova on Pexels
Collect used wine corks and glue them into a frame or onto a board. Once filled, you can pin notes, photos, or reminders into the cork surface. This project is best done in stages if you don’t have a lot of corks at once. It creates a textured and useful display for your wall.
8. Make Shelves from Old Drawers
Tranmautritam on Pexels
If you have an old dresser or cabinet, take out the drawers and turn them into wall-mounted shelves. Paint or line the inside of the drawer to make it stand out. Secure it to the wall using strong hardware. It adds storage and makes good use of parts that would usually be thrown away.
9. Use Broken Dishes to Create Mosaic Art
Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels
Cracked plates or mugs can be broken further into small pieces and used to make mosaic decorations. You can apply the pieces to trays, pots, or wall frames using tile glue and grout. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling sharp pieces. This project turns damaged items into creative designs.
10. Turn Fabric Scraps into Baskets or Storage Bags
Yan Krukau on Pexels
Leftover fabric pieces from clothing or curtains can be sewn into small pouches, baskets, or bags. You don’t need advanced sewing skills — simple hand stitching can be enough. These are great for storing makeup, tools, or small toys. It helps reduce fabric waste and keeps items organized.
11. Use Old Picture Frames for Trays or Message Boards
Alena Darmel on Pexels
A picture frame without glass can become a serving tray or message board. Add a piece of wood or cork inside, and attach handles to the sides if needed. You can paint the frame to match your home decor. This repurposes something that might otherwise sit unused in a closet.