The joys of upcycling and why you should get started today

Upcycling has become extremely popular in recent years as a form of recycling. It’s a great way to save money while expressing your creativity. In an age of climate change, it also happens to be very good for the environment. I have up cycled so many things in our home, from the kitchen cupboards, front door to the internal doors. I love making things look new. Have you ever thought about making something old: new? Here’s why you should consider it:

What is Upcycling?

Before exploring why, you should upcycle, it’s probably best to explain the concept in a little more detail. The term upcycling describes the process of reusing or repurposing otherwise unwanted or discarded items to make an entirely new and useful product. These items frequently end up being of an equivalent or higher value than the original. 

In many ways, upcycling can be summed up by the phrase, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” – though to upcycle involves slightly more creativity than just keeping items in their original form. Rather, upcycling involves repurposing goods for another use – combining items to make a completely different end product, e.g., for example, repurposing an old window frame and unwanted lamps for use as an art display case.

The beauty with upcycling is that the possibilities are endless. You are limited only by the boundaries of your imagination – nothing else. There are countless websites where you can find inspiration for your next project, but really, upcycling just needs a little imagination. 

Get the right tools for the job

Most upcycling jobs can be completed with just basic craftwork and woodwork tools. The site Home Fix Hobby has a great range of tools and accessories you can use in your jobs, ranging from planers to drills and wood glue. The site also features comprehensive product reviews and DIY tips and guides to help you get started.

Upcycling saves you money

Upcycling is perfect for everyday products we might find around the home, e.g. lampshades, wastepaper baskets, units, desks etc. The fact you use unwanted items (from either your own home or other people’s) makes it very cheap and saves you money. There’s undoubtedly no better price than ‘free’! It is such a good idea; instead of spending thousands on a new kitchen I spent £50 on paint and it changed our whole kitchen.

It is good for you

There’s a huge sense of pride to be taken from making your own things. Upcycling also allows you the opportunity to leave your own little mark on items – to fully personalize them and make them unique. It’s a great way to unleash your inner creativity and explore your hidden artistic side. It’s also great fun. 

It is good for the environment

Recycling has taken off exponentially in recent years as the world has slowly woken up to the grim realities of climate change and global warming. The upcycling of materials is good for the environment, and the reuse of items helps reduce landfill while also lessening consumption.

It can involve the whole family

One of the great joys of upcycling is involving the whole family in your projects. Granted, you won’t want to have the kids working on dangerous jobs like sawing or drilling, but you can still get them involved in smaller tasks such as painting items or adding decorations or artwork to your finished piece. 

It’s these little touches that really individualize your projects and stamp a personalized mark on your creations. In days to come, you and your family will treasure these items.

Upcycling is a fantastic hobby to involve the entire family in a creative task, all working together and bringing their individual skills to the mix. Upcycling products is good for the environment, good for your demeanor and good for your wallet. Really, what’s not to like? 

Get started today on your upcycling journey and begin making inroads towards a greener healthier lifestyle. What have you upcycled? I would love to see on Instagram, tag @mummyconstant or comment below with your own tips.