Upcycle

Upcycling: How to help the planet when you have lots of time and nowhere to go

​Upcycling is a form of reusing. It’s taking something unwanted and turning it into something useful. It’s better than recycling because it requires no industrial processing, and it’s something you can do for the planet on your own, at home, for free. All you need is a little time and creative thinking. What could be better for endless hours of social distancing? 
​

Here are just a few easy upcycling projects to get the ideas flowing: 

Shirt Pillow
That favorite old shirt may be too ratty to wear in public, but it’s perfect for a soft and stylish throw pillow. 

Game Board Wall Art
You loved Chutes and Ladders, but you haven’t played it since you were seven. Here’s a way to clear out that game cabinet without throwing out the memories. 

Pillowcase Garment Bag
Old pillow cases are the perfect size and shape for covering suits, prom dresses, and other fancy clothes to keep them fresh and dust-free while in long-term storage.  

Coffee Pot Terrarium
Coffee pot decanters—and any other old, chipped, or otherwise unloved glass container—can become your little indoor micro-garden.  

Dryer Lint and Cooking Oil Fire Starter
For those with a real fireplace or woodstove at home, this simple recipe recycles both old dryer lint and used cooking oil.  

​T-shirt Tote Bag
Reusable bags are an earth-friendly staple. Take the idea a step further by upcycling your own instead of buying them.