40+ Upcycle Ideas That Prove One Man’s Trash Is Another Man’s Treasure
By Harpreet K
This article was originally published on mydiwise
For some people, it’s hard to find time to get out of the house to go shopping for new home items when you have kids to take care of or a demanding job. Furthermore, we understand to need to add new items to your home, whether you just want or genuinely need them. But did you know there is always something you can make out of whatever waste you have? You can upcycle those wooden cutting boards or rugged jeans lying in the corner for multiple DIY projects. Every old thing does indeed have a new use. Some individuals have taken recycling to new heights. Some of the folks on this list find beauty in the most worn-out objects. We also guarantee that these innovative ideas will keep you occupied and inventive when you can’t find the time to get out of the house. We’ve compiled a list of simple and creative ideas that will not only help you beautify things out of potential waste but also bring out your inner artist.iMac rebirth
Owning an iMac computer is a significant financial commitment. When it is damaged, it isn’t easy to dispose of. But what if you discover that you can turn it into something completely unrecognizable? We like to call this project the “ilamp.”![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/5-6-1024x1024_img_62050173f2a4f_img_64aa64909a7bb.png)
Brag about an LV bag
Having a Louis Vuitton purse is unquestionably a luxury! And what female wouldn’t want a bargain like this? So, for $75, this girl found an LV purse in a thrift store. Surprisingly, it wasn’t in excellent shape. But that didn’t stop her from using her creativity on it.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/17-4-1024x1024_img_62050175815f7_img_64aa64938a097.png)
Bubble gown
Have you ever envisioned thermal bubble wrap and a gala gown together? Probably not. However, if you ever wear one, you can make it pop, literally! It also might help relieve your anxiety because bubble wrap is known to have stress-relieving properties.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2-5-1024x1024_img_6205017733517_img_64aa6496833bc.png)
Vintage collection love
Vintage items retain a special place in the hearts of certain people. This user’s mother wished to own a vintage mixer for many years. But searching for an item like this at a reasonable price is a challenging task. Finally, her child came through.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/15-4-1024x1024_img_62050178c28e5_img_64aa6499721bd.png)
The aesthetic rug
This guy decided to deep clean the rug that the previous owners of their home left behind. Once he washed it, he could clearly see the design of the rug, and it turned out to be quite detailed. This rug can give a room a lot of personality.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/24-3-1024x1024_img_6205017a90c80_img_64aa649c740b6.png)
Crochet stitch master
When you’re on a tight budget, thrift stores can come to the rescue. You can save a lot of money if you decide to shop in them frequently. This individual brought a garment that looked like broccoli. Broccoli, yes. But, wait until you see what she did with it.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/36-3-1024x1024_img_6205017c3c3ba_img_64aa649f177fe.png)
Two repurposed shirts
We frequently recycle old clothing into something new. On the other hand, we have never considered recycling underwear. After all, it is a necessary clothing item, so why not? This craft person created underwear out of two old shirts.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/31-4-1024x1024_img_6205017db4596_img_64aa64a1bd1ad.png)
Pallet-built bookcase
We frequently see wood pallets thrown on the side of the street. They can help haul hundreds of pounds of items, but people rarely attempt to upcycle them. This individual decided to put the pallet they found on the street to good use. He turned it into a bookshelf!![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/1-5-1024x1024_img_6205017f7172e_img_64aa64a478494.png)
Cat fortress
When it comes to pets, people recycle a lot of stuff. These recycling activities are exciting for both you and your furry friend. This individual wanted to construct a palace for their cats. After all, who’s to say that cats don’t deserve one?![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/45-2-1024x1024_img_620501811fdcc_img_64aa64a728271.png)
From an old fence to a garden box
We need to praise this creator before we can continue. Who goes through the trouble of making garden boxes out of an old fence for a friend? Until his friend intervened, this user was about to toss out his old fences because they needed to be replaced.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/32-4-1024x1024_img_62050182bb43b_img_64aa64a9ef1c0.png)
Climbing toy tower
Upcycling has become a popular method of transforming rubbish into treasure. This user shared before and after photos of a broken and upcycled cable spool. You’ve probably seen them before, and you might have thought they were intriguing.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/44-3-1024x1024_img_620501846f005_img_64aa64ac9f693.png)
Car seat makeover
Car owners know the importance of taking care of their car seats. They are usually the one part of the car that gets the most filthy. The ‘before’ photo depicts a dirty, damaged, and discolored seat. On the other hand, this guy appears to have used a wand to fix it!![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/28-3-1024x1024_img_620501860d648_img_64aa64af5f416.png)
Homemade seed starter pods
Almost every gardener starts their plants from seeds, and choosing the correct container is critical. Some people are planting trees with materials that will take many years to decay. However, now they are becoming more aware of this problem, like the person who took these photos.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/3-4-1024x1024_img_62050187944cb_img_64aa64b213f27.png)
Not so ‘trashy’ trash can
We’ve all seen the standard stainless steel kitchen garbage cans before – not so interesting. But most of us wouldn’t think to make a fuss over our trash can. However, you can’t argue that a clean and shining bin draws our attention more than an old, filthy one.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/11-4-1024x1024_img_6205018935fbc_img_64aa64b4d3e15.png)
Reusable sandwich bag
You can make your own washable, reusable sandwich bags with a little time and less than a yard of cloth. For instance, let’s take a peek at this person’s sandwich bag. She utilized a piece of shower curtain for the interior.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/37-3-1024x1024_img_6205018ac4d8d_img_64aa64b7bd621.png)
Gleaming teddy bear
Cleaning and caring for your valuable antiques or child’s favorite toys will significantly extend their life and quality! However, sometimes our children get stains on things, especially their stuffed animals. Your child’s favorite bear may need a deep scrub now and then!![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/19-4-1024x1024_img_6205018c58d90_img_64aa64babd5a2.png)
Harry Potter-themed dresser
After watching and reading the Harry Potter series, every child must have fantasized about being a wizard. So, if you’re a Harry Potter lover or know someone who is, we have a perfect upcycle project for you. This gentleman made a Harry Potter-themed dresser out of an existing dresser.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/10-4-1024x1024_img_6205018e3fe28_img_64aa64bd888cb.png)
Miss ‘know it all’ granny
Grandmas are important to youngsters. They are warm-hearted, make the best food, and give the best hugs! We can learn a variety of things from them since they have a great deal of insight. It’s no surprise they’re known as “know-it-alls.”![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/4-5-1024x1024_img_6205018fd0b8e_img_64aa64c0393aa.png)
Cotton sanitary napkins
Choosing safer personal care items, such as reusable cloth menstrual pads, is one of the greatest ways to take care of your body and the environment. Since store-bought pads take roughly six months to degrade, with that in mind, this girl in the picture used her creativity.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/40-3-1024x1024_img_6205019199d0a_img_64aa64c31eea6.png)
Cardboard farewell
This user shared a photo of their cardboard box, which they had used for 13 years and had now retired. We can see it went through a considerable amount of moving around. No one ever thinks to upcycle paper as it decomposes quickly.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/34-3-1024x1024_img_620501933279a_img_64aa64c5cb0c5.png)
Recycled toy
When you were a little one, did you have a favorite toy? It accompanied you everywhere, and you adored it more than anything else. We all have that one special treasured toy. We outgrew them over time, but the precious memories still linger.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/25-3-1024x1024_img_62050194c565e_img_64aa64c870ca0.png)
Old yarn sweater
We all want to do our part to help our world and society, and recycling is an important part of that. But did you know that yarn can be recycled, too? In the traditional sense, it doesn’t work. Instead, it can be repurposed and reused.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/33-3-1024x1024_img_62050196763d8_img_64aa64cb38b94.png)
Oven cleaning alert!
Cleaning your oven is similar to visiting the dentist. Few of us look forward to the task, but the prospect of ending up with a sparkling oven is often more pleasant than the task itself. Take a look at the first photo of the oven.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/23-3-1024x1024_img_620501984b7e2_img_64aa64ce260ba.png)
Piano workstation
Repurposing old pianos into a wonderful house accessory is a trendy technique. A piano is one of those items that are hard to come by and are considered a luxury. However, it might turn into a space-consuming item once it stops working.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/7-4-1024x1024_img_6205019a0fd1b_img_64aa64d0d38d0.png)
Partially there
Leather sofas are fantastic. The feeling of comfort they provide is undeniable. However, normal wear and tear can fade and damage your once vivid leather furniture over time. The individual, in this case, opted to refurbish their antique leather sofa.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/26-3-1024x1024_img_6205019b9d0b6_img_64aa64d38ff4d.png)
Crystal shimmery birdie
We know we’ll never use the mountain of CDs sitting in a random box ever again, thanks to today’s music-streaming technologies. It’s also difficult to toss them because they have sentimental significance. This guy shared a photo of a gleaming bird he created out of old CDs.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/43-2-1024x1024_img_6205019d467f8_img_64aa64d63ac8c.png)
Wonder car
The stories that both the cars in the picture convey are quite different. The first one is owned by a homeless man who rarely looks after his vehicle. The second appears to be a brand-new vehicle with only a few miles on it.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/16-3-1024x1024_img_6205019f187b2_img_64aa64d979dd9.png)
Shining copper basin
The sink in the first picture looks like it belongs in an abandoned house. We are delighted that this person opted to take a chance on the sink. At the same time, we are also wondering what cleaning products he used to pull this off!![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/8-4-1024x1024_img_620501a08becb_img_64aa64dc5f7ac.png)
Bring back the luster
What can we do to bring back the lustrous sheen to our pots? Alternatively, other variations of the same question are frequently posed. It appears impossible to remove all the stains, and none of the DIY videos seem to work. Fortunately, this guy discovered the secret.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/12-3-1024x1024_img_620501a242441_img_64aa64df4e08f.png)
Denim upholstery
There will come a point where you will have to say goodbye to your cherished jeans. But before you toss them out, consider repurposing the denim. Some people have, and they utilized what might be the most effective method possible.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/6-3-1024x1024_img_620501a3ee46c_img_64aa64e231620.png)
Power washer ‘power’
People appear to be enchanted with power washing. A power washer is responsible for this before-and-after comparison. You might be astonished when you see these next images. But it goes to show that nothing is ever too filthy to clean.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/14-4-1024x1024_img_620501a587de5_img_64aa64e5225c5.png)
Refreshing furniture
There are a variety of green trash disposal choices available for your old furniture. These include, of course, recycling and repurposing existing furniture. So, why not repurpose it? You surely can just like this person in the picture did.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/42-4-1024x1024_img_620501a7137fe_img_64aa64e7ae328.png)
Jute washcloths
When you make the decision to live a life based on eco-friendly values, you will most likely wish to incorporate this new routine into many facets of your daily routine. This individual has chosen to recycle jute, a versatile material.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/38-4-1024x1024_img_620501a8e4bf0_img_64aa64ea98ebd.png)
No remnants left behind
We only have one planet and are completely reliant on it for our survival and well-being. Sustainable living requires understanding how our lifestyle choices affect the world around us and creating methods for everyone to live better. So many people are opting for sustainable living.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/30-4-1024x1024_img_620501aa69c5d_img_64aa64ed31a60.png)
Fabric makeup remover pad
You don’t want to use harsh chemicals on your skin, particularly if it is sensitive. Makeup wipes leave your skin more prone to irritation and breakouts. Not only do they disrupt the skin’s PH balance, but they also add waste to our environment.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/41-2-1024x1024_img_620501abd8a03_img_64aa64efe1673.png)
What’s underneath is that what matters
This individual paid $6 for three skillets. The first image makes us question his taste. Why would anyone purchase such rusted and ruined cookware? The skillets are obviously entirely worn out. However, he discovered that there was something valuable hiding beneath the filth.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/9-3-1024x1024_img_620501ad82546_img_64aa64f2866b7.png)
Eames lounge chair by Herman Miller
This individual purchased a vintage Herman Miller Eames lounge chair. It is typically a work of art that is slimmer and lighter than a traditional club chair and more comfortable. But this chair was broken, and the leather was all scratched up.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/22-3-1024x1024_img_620501af1d939_img_64aa64f509345.png)
A lint roller out of a showpiece?
Who doesn’t like multipurpose items? We mean, if one product can serve multiple functions, who wouldn’t be interested in using it? We’d say almost everyone. The girl in the image is holding a showpiece rock. As we know, a showpiece is meant to adorn the room.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/35-6-1024x1024_img_620501b0bf908_img_64aa64f7c47d3.png)
The perfect woodsmith
For centuries, humankind has worked tirelessly to make life easier, and without these efforts, life would be a complete disaster. One of the numerous ways that life on Earth is comfortable is through recycling. This user shared a photo of their repurposed pot.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/39-5-1024x1024_img_620501b267900_img_64aa64fa86702.png)
What a top-notch tabletop!
If you’ve gone furniture shopping recently, you know how pricey new items can be. However, many people seek out furniture from thrift stores since it is made of higher-quality materials and is sold at a lower price. The catch is that these items may have some flaws.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/29-3-1024x1024_img_620501b3d2add_img_64aa64fd43a90.png)
Revamped Corcoran boots
This list has instilled in us a strong belief in miracles. Just like we can see the pair of Corcoran jump boots in the picture. They are abused and damaged to the point of extinction. However, when looking at the ‘after’ photo, they don’t appear to be worn.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/20-4-1024x1024_img_620501b576b35_img_64aa65008b1a5.png)
The traditional chair
You will see a mid-’50s highchair in the first photograph. Then, you’ll notice a refurbished chair in the next. This gentleman did a fantastic job remodeling the chair. This poster disproved the myth that chairs can’t be embellished. They can, in fact, be highly decorated.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/13-4-1024x1024_img_620501b716177_img_64aa6503415c7.png)
Car remodeling
We love watching shows and YouTube videos of people refurbishing old vintage cars, and they’re always curiously appealing. Remodeling a car can be as difficult as walking blindfolded or as simple as putting together a puzzle. A professional makeover is indeed possible, even with vintage toy vehicles.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/27-3-1024x1024_img_620501b8ae4db_img_64aa6505dc5b2.png)
Clean tarnished silver
Shopping at thrift stores has numerous advantages for both people and the planet. This person bought this sugar bowl for three dollars at a thrift store. However, the silver sugar dish in the second image resembles a fancy bowl.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/21-4-1024x1024_img_620501ba3eb4e_img_64aa6508bb181.png)
Assembled chair
Even this shattered chair has its own unique appeal. Because this poster could see past its flaws, he made it into something beautiful. The chair looked rusted to the point of being irrecoverable. At least, that’s what we thought until this savvy user proved us wrong.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/18-4-1024x1024_img_620501bbbddfc_img_64aa650b5fa7b.png)
Frames as towel holders
Who knew frames could make such cute towel holders? This is the perfect decor and organizational project for you if you have a bunch of old frames stashed somewhere in your garage. It’s time to put them to good use.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/untrashed-1_img_64aa650e20995.jpg)
Rug made out of rags
If you have a couple of old rags you can turn them into tiny strips that you can use to make a colorful rag you can display somewhere in your house. All you need is the necessary materials, a pair of scissors, rag canvas, and a latch hook.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/untrashed-2_img_64aa650ea96e2.jpg)
Quilt rack
Next, we have a project that’s going to revamp your home organization game. If you live in a relatively big house with several people, chances are that you have a collection of quilts or blankets. And while it’s okay to use a simple basket to store them, you can also use a rack.![](https://bigmoneytime.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/after-headboard-quilt-rack-1_img_64d64ab595ecd.jpg)