80+ upcycling ideas to turn your trash into treasure - serpaja america

Table of Contents

Refresh, reuse and recycle

Don’t rush to resign your old furniture to the scrap heap. All you need to turn tired, time-worn pieces into treasure are a few DIY skills and little creative thinking. Budget-friendly and good for the planet, we’ve brought together the best upcycling projects to inspire your next makeover. Click or scroll on and discover how to breathe new life into your old stuff…

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Suitcase style drawers

Here’s a fun idea to update old and boring drawers. Paint a dated dresser with a pretty palette of pastel shades in chalk paint for a themed ‘luggage look’ finish. Make sure each drawer is painted with a different colour and then glue on suitcase clips and decorative luggage details.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Blue sky fridge

Breathe new life into an old white kitchen appliance by transforming your refrigerator with a refreshing blue sky wraparound. Clean the exterior and mask out the areas you don’t want to be painted. Prime and then spray two coats of blue paint and let dry. Add cloud details with DIY stencils and white metal paint. Check out Make It Yours for a full tutorial.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Cane cabinet

With cane furniture a hot trend this year, it would be foolish not to use a roll of cane webbing in your next upcycling project! This striking cabinet has been transformed by removing and replacing the inner door sections with sheets of decorative weaved cane. The contrasting black paint finish is super chic and designer worthy. Visit Furniture And Choice for the full tutorial.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wooden bowl lamp

Give a wooden salad bowl a second life by transforming it into a chunky pendant light. Using an electric drill make a hole in the base of the bowl. Gently sand the entire surface in the direction of the wood grain. Paint the bowl with metallic finish furniture paint and once dry paint the exterior with a coat of white chalk paint. Again, once dry, sand the exterior to distress and expose the base coat beneath. Install the electrical wire and bulb and hang in the room of your choice. For the full tutorial visit Make It Yours.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Gold bedside tables

Inject a touch of Art Deco glam by adding a pair of gold leaf bedside tables. To copy this ‘rough luxe’ style from WEBB & GRAY first paint cabinets in minty green chalk paint and then apply imitation gold leaf over the top, leaving areas of paint visible for a distressed look. Seal with coats of satin varnish and fit new knobs.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wine crate ottoman

Add a stylish ottoman bench to the end of your bed or the hallway to provide useful extra storage. To copy this French wine box version by Wearth London, upholster the lid of a similar box with foam and fabric (there are many tutorials for this online) and install hinges for easy opening. The vintage print will add character and soft new upholstery, a comfy seat.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Key rack

Turn a vintage key into a beautiful gift with purpose. Screw hooks into a deep picture frame. Attach an old key to pretty paper with glue or adhesive stickers, and place it in the frame. That’s it – a DIY key rack is complete! Visit Photolini.de for full instructions.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Stencilled drawers

Stencil painted patterns directly onto wood furniture to create this decorative effect. Clash patterns in similar colours for added interest and always seal the finished art with a couple of coats of clear varnish. Add castors to the bottom to make your new drawers mobile.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Children’s drawers

Brighten up a child’s bedroom with a chest of drawers painted all over in a sunny colour. Create a coordinated scheme by choosing a tone that matches your child’s favourite wall art. We love how even the handles have been painted the same marigold shade on these friendly drawers for a coherent look that’s bold and full of character.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Filing cabinets

Genuine vintage file drawers can be hard to come and expensive. However, it’s easy to create your own with a clever IKEA hack. First, fake the effect of shallow drawers by sticking two new pieces of wood onto each existing drawer, but leave a small gap between. Once fully dry, paint the whole piece of furniture with wood stain, add new knobs and label plates for the full effect.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Ombre sideboard

Brighten up a dark corner with a colourful ombre sideboard. We love this coral combination but you can choose whatever you like as long as they are shades of the same colour and fade from dark to light. Remove the doors and then, mask out equal sections on the fronts and assign a paint shade to each. For the full tutorial visit: Furniture And Choice.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Printed pillows

Update tired bed linen with a hit of zingy colour and pattern. The Kota Stencil from Nicolette Tabram Stencils is inspired by travels throughout India. The pattern looks striking when stencilled over a faded, ticking-stripe print with bright fuchsia pink and contrasting black fabric paint (non-toxic).

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Tin can planters

What could be easier than growing fresh fragrant herbs in tin cans? Thoroughly wash and clean the tins and remove any labels. Cover the inner base with broken terracotta or shingle for drainage. Half fill with compost and sow one variety of herb seeds to each pot. Cover the seeds with more compost, place them on a sunny windowsill and watch them grow. Vintage cans with colourful retro prints look even better.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Garden table

Give an old garden table and bench a new lease of life with updated legs. Invented by Henry P. Glass in wartime Britain, hairpin furniture legs were a sturdy function made with minimal materials. They make it super easy to transform almost anything into contemporary furniture today. Have a look at The Hairpin Leg Company for your next upcycling project.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Stencilled bath

Transform your bathroom into an uplifting spring meadow scene with wild-flower stencils. Start with a rich blue backdrop on bathroom walls and a bath panel. Then create a pretty pasture of colour using The Meadow Flowers Stencil from Annie Sloan. As the bathroom is a moist environment, protect the finished artwork with a bathroom top-coat sealant.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Suitcase ottoman

If you’ve got tired old luggage gathering dust in the attic, why not transform it into a quirky statement seat or ottoman? Remove the top of the suitcase and add plywood to the base, then fill with foam and upholster the seat in a heavyweight fabric that can withstand daily wear and tear. For an industrial feel, you could even add hairpin legs, like this beautiful design from Etsy.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Geometric mid-century sideboard

The work of Annie Sloan’s Painter in Residence Polly Coulson, this playful statement piece demonstrates how a splash of colour and a bold, graphic pattern can completely revive a time-worn sideboard. These vintage mid-century units can often be picked up for relatively modest price tags at garage sales and second-hand furniture stores. Using masking tape, mark out your design before filling it in with chalk paint and finally sealing with wax.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Window shutter planter

Before you discard that pair of old battered window shutters, take a moment to consider their potential. In this ingenious Etsy design, a shutter has been given a new lease of life as a characterful planter. Having cut the shutter in half, small lengths of plywood have been used to create a shallow box that can accommodate small plant pots – the perfect addition to a garden wall or entryway.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Textured set of drawers

For something a little different than just a fresh lick of paint, experiment with textured paper for an ornate finish on your furnishings. Created by Chloe Kempster, another Painter in Residence with Annie Sloan, these jewel-toned drawers almost look like engraved wood. To get the look, Chloe applied textured paper with PVA glue, followed by coats of blue and green hues to create this dappled emerald effect. She then used a lighter shade to highlight the raised pattern and sealed with wax.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Denim hall bench

Finally worn holes in your favourite pair of jeans? Don’t ditch your denim just yet. Instead, use the hardy fabric to recover a boring hallway bench. And you don’t need to be top of the sewing bee to get results as the more mismatched the finish better. The patchwork tones of blue will look ultra-fresh set against a white backdrop.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Cheese box shelf

This nifty project by Carrie of Curb to Refurb sees a used cheese box transformed into a stylish shelving unit. For the shelf, cut a length of wood and affix it inside the box with a glue gun to create a spot for displaying lightweight accessories. Then, glue an old leather belt (the more worn the better) around the perimeter of the lid and leave enough slack to hang from a wooden peg on a wall. For a rustic finish, you could even try staining the wood.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Shirt cushions

Shirt cushions look quirky and make memorable keepsakes if made from a favourite jersey or blouse of a loved one. There are plenty of easy online tutorials to follow for styles including button-front designs and shirt collars. Why not cut the pattern to include the shirt pocket to store fragrant lavender bags or even the TV remote?

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Colour splash dinnerware

Breathe new life into plain old crockery with artistic colouring techniques. Dilute ceramic paint with water and have fun with dip dye, straw splatter and paintbrush techniques on bowls and plates. If you don’t like the effect, simply, wash off and start again. Once you’re happy with your finished designs, follow the paint instructions to set the new effects, a process that may include an oven bake.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Pallet wall bar

A popular DIY trend, the possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycling wood pallets. For a fresh twist on a bottle rack, use the slats in a pallet as a trough to store your favourite tipples. Use the grooves in the lower rack to hang glassware and hey presto, a wall-mounted bar fit for a farmhouse. Alternatively, you can pick one up ready-made here.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Dessert pot planters

The simplest of household items that you would otherwise throw into the recycling bin can be transformed into the most delightful accessories with a little imagination. These glass dessert jars have been upcycled into pretty mini macramé hanging planters. Fill with pebbles for drainage and soil of your choice, add tiny houseplants and succulent plugs, then hang with knotted twine.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wall-mounted utensil holder

We love this simple idea by Bachman’s for creating a quirky storage solution to keep things tidy in the kitchen. Try using an old-fashioned metal cheese grater to create a utensil holder complete with a built-in towel hook – brilliant!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Shutter wall art

Create an original piece of rustic artwork to pep up a bare wall by repurposing wooden window shutters. This simple project sees botanical prints in plain wooden frames mounted to each shutter. The rustic backdrop adds plenty of country charm and elevates simple artwork to a whole new level.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Shutter noticeboard

Here’s another fantastic idea for reusing old shutters; a noticeboard for your garden work. Simply use old wooden pegs to attach your paperwork, seed packets and to-do lists in one orderly place.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Vintage gas can cabinet

Here’s one for the motoring enthusiasts, a secret bar hidden inside a repurposed vintage gas can. This one has been given a mirrored back, a walnut-veneered interior and a smart new charcoal paint job. We think it’s genius!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Boat bed

Give a guest bedroom a talking point with an upcycled boat bed. This ingenious hack sees an old boat cut in two, with the prow flipped to create a ‘hood’ for the bed’s base. This sort of project is best tackled with careful research and help from a professional craftsperson – particularly as the boat shell is made from fibreglass.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Lifebuoy planter

When it comes to upcycling, we love the unexpected and this repurposed lifebuoy holder, featured on the Upcycle UK Group, is a perfect example. The vivid orange hue looks fantastic turned as a feature rockery filled with hardy shrubs, with everything kept in place by a panel of netting.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Guitar bar

It doesn’t get much cooler than a bourbon bar made from the body of an acoustic guitar. If you’ve got an old one lying around that has seen better days, polish off your old woodworking skills like Weathered Souls and open it up, leaving as much of the fretboard and any original details intact as possible.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Vintage radio wall shelf

This creative idea by Furniture Revival for an old radio is a brilliant example of thinking outside the box! Keep an eye out at flea markets and junk sales for wooden cabinets that could work as storage in your entryway – this was once a vintage radio but the colour and quality of the craftsmanship deserve a second lifespan.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Vintage TV pet bed

If you’re a fan of bespoke retro pieces, why not give your pet’s bed the vintage treatment too? Made from a classic TV unit, blogger Pauliina hollowed out the casing and lined the shell with durable wallpaper in a vibrant botanical print. Add a few cosy cushions to soften the space and it’s sure to be a hit with your four-legged friends.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Oil barrel coffee table

An enduring trend, industrial décor is sticking around for the long haul and what’s more, it’s easy to master the look with a bit of clever upcycling. Now a quirky coffee table, the side of this once-battered oil drum has been sawn off and fitted with a tempered glass tabletop and matching black legs. You could add a lick of paint to the barrel to tie it in with your colour scheme – though you might need to consult a professional to cut it into shape.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Surfboard towel rack

Bathroom storage doesn’t have to be utilitarian and uninspiring. Sure to liven up a lacklustre wash space, these hooks are mounted onto a vintage-style wooden surfboard but you could definitely try this with an old skateboard, too. Available on Etsy, a hand-cut shark bite adds a playful finish to the stylish design – perfect for a coastal bathroom!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Reclaimed door bench

Annie Sloan’s Painter in Residence, Hester van Overbeek, has given a new lease of life to a tired old door. Once unassuming and worn out, she sawed the door into five pieces and screwed them together to create this quirky bench. After sanding, she added a coat of white chalk paint to the wood, applying a lick of contrasting green to the edges for a final colourful flourish.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Oil drum wall mirrors

Add a playful nautical twist to your hallway or living room with this unique mirror upcycle featured on Etsy. A circle has been cut out of the centre of these discarded oil barrel lids and a mirror inserted. For this project, you might need to enlist a professional to help with the metalwork.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Globe wall clock

We love this super simple upcycling project, as seen on Etsy, that’ll turn an old-school globe into a quirky wall clock. All you really need are the hands, a clock mechanism and the right size nuts and screws to hold it together, all of which are available on Amazon.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Painted floral coffee table

If you’ve fallen out of love with an old coffee table, give it a spruce up with some decorative paintwork. Sketch on a design in pencil before you commit to the pattern or use a ready-made stencil that you can pick up from an art shop. Use oil-based paints for a durable finish that’ll stand the test of time.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Ship bulkhead lights

If you scour scrap yards and auction houses, chances are you’ll come across a few worse-for-wear ship bulkhead lights. For a quirky light fixture, fit a new bulb and light cord behind the cage. Mount onto a distressed piece of wood for the perfect vintage lighting solution.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Outdoor plant display

A fresh lick of paint can really be a gamechanger. This disused side table has been transformed into the perfect indoor-outdoor plant display, thanks to a sunny splash of yellow. To recreate this look at home, make sure you use waterproof garden furniture paint.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wall-mounted wooden box storage

An easy way to add budget-friendly storage to your attic bedroom is by upcycling an old wooden box divider. Their square shelves are ideal for displaying small ceramics and plants – plus they make a great addition to a vintage-inspired scheme.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Ladder shelving unit

If you have a few old wooden ladders gathering dust in your garage, this next upcycle is a nifty way to repurpose them into extra storage. Decide how many shelves you need and cut between the rungs of the ladder accordingly. For extra stability, frame the shelving with some old wood and attach a smaller length of rope or string at the top of the unit for hanging.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Truck drinks bar

Weathered trucks are relatively cheap to pick up in scrapyards. With help from a blacksmith, the front of an old heavy goods vehicle can be transformed into a trendy bar – just add a wooden counter and embellish with metal spray paint for a vintage finish.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wallpaper drawers

This project by blogger Shelley is a great way to add a fun flash of colour to a bureau without bringing out the paint cans. Choose a bold wallpaper and line the sides of the drawers for a vibrant peek of pattern.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Shutter privacy screen

Fancy a stylish sunscreen without shelling out big bucks? Salvaged shutters are a great way to add privacy and texture to your outside space. Repurpose with a bright lick of paint for a warming Mediterranean-style scheme.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Chair transformations

How’s this for a great furniture revamp? Head to any house clearance warehouse and you’ll be sure to find old dining chairs for as little as a few pounds. They’re great starter revamps for those looking to get into upcycling or upholstery – fabric remnants and tester pots are all you need to totally revive them.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Guitar case shelves

Ideal for music lovers, this creative project transforms a battered old guitar into a statement shelving unit. Simply strip the guitar back to its carcass and add two or three wooden shelves to display your trinkets on. Alternatively, you can pick up a ready-made design on Etsy.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Retro car sofa

If you want to add real retro vibes to your lounge, this creative project is just the ticket. The front of an old car has been upcycled into a statement sofa, with a seat created from recycled wood boarding. Scour your local salvaged yards for the right vintage vehicle then consult with a blacksmith to solder it into shape.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Toy trunks

Looking for storage for a kids’ room? Keep toys neat and tidy with a pair of wheelable trunks. Pick up a couple of old wooden apple crates from your local car boot sale and pair with casters for the perfect mobile storage solution. Coat the front in blackboard paint or create a colourful design with decals.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Teacup candles

Old teacups and saucers are a cheap buy in most second-hand shops these days. Why not have a go at screwing some together to make cake stands, bird feeders or jewellery holders? Alternatively, you can create cute vintage-inspired candles by filling the cups with wax – you can even add dye to achieve different colours.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Mason jar lights

Kilner and Mason jars can be simply transformed into stylish household lighting. Give this one a whirl – purchase light fittings, cords and bulbs from online suppliers and create your own vintage-looking light fittings. Easy to make and so impressive!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Jam jar soap dispenser

Taking the jar trend further, why not use ceramic pots as dispensers and tumblers for your toothbrush and soaps? Simply paint with gentle grey and soft cream hues, and then lightly age with sandpaper. It’s a perfect way to perk up your bathroom on a budget.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

DIY kitchen island

If you’re short on space in your kitchen, transform an old chest of drawers to create a snug centre island. After a quick lick of paint, affix an off-cut piece of worktop, pop on some casters and screw some hooks to its side. It’ll be the perfect place to store all of your kitchen essentials, and you can wheel it around too.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Corkboard wall art

You know those old cork boards that are so… 1994? Well, go grab yourself a couple, along with a few tester pots of paint. Cut out hexagon shapes from the boards and paint with colourful patterns. Affix to the wall and use as a quirky display, Rust-Oleum has the full how-to.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Cabinet update

Bet you didn’t think a bog-standard filing cabinet could look this stylish, did you? Those clever folk at Rust-Oleum have put together an easy guide to transforming a rusty piece of office furniture into a side table you’d proudly place in your living room. All you need is some spray paint and sticky-back plastic.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Jeep desk

You may require a little help from a professional for this one, but if you’re prepared to put in the effort you’ll end up with a piece of furniture to really be proud of. To start, you need to find yourself an old car bonnet (preferably a Jeep). Clean it up, affix some legs and see it transform into a practical and cool desk.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Yardstick coat hooks

No longer readily found in schools, the trusty yardstick is becoming a little redundant these days. Have a rummage in local antique markets and charity shops and you’ll find enough to create a totally unique coat rack like this. Take a piece of MDF and glue each ruler to it, screw in some elegant hooks, and then pop on the wall. It’ll be a talking point for all that come to visit.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Piano bookshelf

This one is a little more difficult to recreate because it’s not every day you find an old grand piano lying about… But, if you happen to have one at your disposal then you’re going to love this idea. With the top and internal sections removed and some shelves fitted inside, it becomes a striking display unit for books and ornaments.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Suitcase shelves

Great for storage, old suitcases can also be transformed into so many things – tables, seats and even shelving. Neatly cut the fronts away and affix them to the wall. A grouped display like this looks really impressive. They can’t be opened, but work brilliantly as wall shelves.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Bathtub sofa

Upcycling redundant or old items gives you the scope to get really creative. Look at this ingenious sofa that’s been made from an old roll-top bathtub – the designer has cleverly cut away one side and upholstered a seat pad to pop inside. A lick of paint and an accent cushion are the perfect finishing touches. Try it yourself or pick one up from Max McMurdo.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Cable drum table

Oversized empty cable reels used to carry electrical wiring lend themselves perfectly to a second life as a garden table. Simply tip the reel drum on its side and then decorate as you desire. You could spray paint it, add mosaic tiles or even découpage the top. Smaller reels placed in the same way with cushions on top are perfect as stools too.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Decal dresser

Cheap, functional IKEA furniture doesn’t have to be boring. If painting isn’t your forte, why not try decals instead? These clever stickers are available in an array of colours and designs and are easily applied to furniture. We love this cute and colourful design by Decor8.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Reclaimed wooden shelf

You don’t have to be a DIY whizz to whip up this cute shelf. All you need is a piece of old wood and some rope. Hanging shelves are a great storage hack for small spaces as you can tie them back when you don’t need them – just make sure you affix them securely to the ceiling.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Ladder garden

If you’re short on space in the garden, you can still create a place to show off your green fingers – just think about growing upwards instead of outwards. Place wooden planks onto the stairs of a stepladder and build up a garden of plants and bright flowers.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Storage ladder

Another creative use for an old ladder is shabby-chic shelving. Affix your ladder safely to the wall and sand down any sharp edges. Ideal for a small bathroom, it’s a handy way to store towels or it could even make a great coat rack in a hallway.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Shutter headboard

Looking for beautiful bedroom ideas? A statement headboard can really make a room come alive and an upcycled design is sure to add charm and personality. This quirky headboard by Samantha Elizabeth is made from old shutters painted a vibrant pastel blue.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wooden crate shelves

Easily available, wooden crates are ideal to use as shabby chic storage units. Simply add a lick of pain and securely affix a few together for a stylish set of shelves for your trinkets.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Sideboard update

For a quick way to modernise old furniture, add a few touches of metallic. Spray paint or decals will offer easy application – stick to simple shapes and lines for a clean, classy look. We love this geometric upcycle by Kristi Murphy.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Two-tone table legs

Want to add an instant pop of colour to a neutral space? Try experimenting with paint for a quirky dip-dyed effect. Blogger Emily of The Sweet Beast has painted the body of this console unit a fresh peach shade, while the pine legs have been left their original wood tone.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Sponge-painted armchair

A cute way to bring tired old armchairs back to life without entirely reupholstering them is to sponge on a new colourful design. Grab a few bottles of fabric paint in complementary shades and unleash your creativity. We love this vibrant pattern by Ashley Rose of Sugar & Cloth.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Record wine bottle holders

If you can bear to wreck your old dusty records, this is a smart way to keep them on display. Vinyl discs are easily malleable with a little heat and are strong enough to hold your prized wine bottles. Make sure you don’t bend anything important though!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Suitcase wall cabinet

Got old luggage knocking around in the loft? Give it some love with this cute idea from blogger Eve Julien. Line the inside of the unit with some map paper and add a few shelves and your old suitcase will fulfil its purpose once more!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Luggage bedside table

Speaking of old suitcases, the traditional kind with strong sides also make a great bedside or hall table. Safely affix wooden legs to the underside, as blogger The Weathered Door has done, and you’ve got a cute vintage-inspired feature in your bedroom.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Globe lampshades

Keeping with the travel theme, how about using old globes as cool light fixtures? Ideal as lampshades, simply cut off the bottom of the globe, thread through a pendant light and secure them safely to the ceiling – you can use them as inspiration for your next big adventure. We love this ingenious design by Old School Road.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Bicycle bathroom vanity

Bicycle lovers won’t be able to get enough of your bathroom with an old bike doubling as a washstand, towel rack and vase. Vintage bicycles are easy to pick up either online or in an antique shop, but you may need to remove any rust and respray your bike before it looks as charming as this one.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Plastic bottle garden chairs

Rather than tossing your old plastic bottles into the recycle bin, why not reuse them in a rather different way? This clever upcycle sees bottles strapped to the base and back of a metal chair frame, transforming them into surprisingly comfortable outdoor seating. Rain-proof and long-lasting, they’re ideal for a quick and easy garden project.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Bold chalk-painted bureau

Chalk paint is ideal for brightening up old furniture as it adds a beautiful rustic finish to weathered wood. This once-worn bureau has been given a new lease of life by KparkP décor with a vibrant coat of light green paint. To create a fun contrast, you could even paint the handles with a wow-factor metallic hue.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Skateboard table

Got a few skateboards kicking around from the last time you tried to be a sk8tr boi? Use them for the next best thing – home décor. This really easy project by LeesHandCraft simply requires removing the wheels and replacing them with some basic table legs. And it looks pretty rad.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Revamped school chair

Next time your local school has a clear out, pop down and see if you can pick up a few uninspiring plastic classroom chairs. Next, choose three or four complementary shades of paint and get to work – we love the metallic gold hue that Allison of Dream a Little Bigger has used on this multicoloured masterpiece!

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Wine crate piano stool

It’s no secret that wine and music go hand in hand, so where better to keep all your music books and papers than a piano stool crafted from a wine crate? Create a comfy seat with a cushioned lid and choose a quirky patterned fabric to finish the piece off.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Music paper dressing table

One for music lovers, this charming dressing table découpage project by Miss Mustard Seed uses antique manuscript paper to add a quirky twist to a worn unit. You can achieve the same effect with magazines, postcards or other art too.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Car cocktail bar

Crafted from the boot section of a retro car, this cocktail bar is sure to be a major talking point at dinner parties. Fitted with bottle holders, drawers and even wine glass racks, it’s your one-stop-shop for entertaining. The best bit? You can close the boot and tuck everything away out of sight at the end of the night. Unless you have major metalworking skills, you’ll want to work with a professional for this.

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Mesh ironing board organisers

Create a brilliant feature to brighten up a wall by repurposing an old mesh ironing board. These wonderful objects have a fabulous fretwork built-in, which you can use as a base for a creative display – such as this collection of hand mirrors – or as storage for accessories, jewellery or even notes. Simply add S-hooks or try this hack that uses old braces (suspenders) clasps.

Loved this? Like and follow us on Facebook for more amazing upcycling projects

Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

86/86 SLIDES

Source Article