100 Creative Ways to Recycle

25th Feb2013

100 Creative Ways to Recycle

by Dinah Wulf

I am very close to publishing 500 posts on this blog in less than two years! Geesh!! Looking back, many of these posts (if not all) are focused on reuse and repurposing. I thought I’d put together a round-up of some of these amazing ideas I have found over the past several months. Once you get the repurposing and upcycling bug, you see the world differently. All of a sudden, you become a hoarder of toilet paper rolls and spaghetti jars. You even think twice before selling a piece of furniture on Craigslist. I stopped at 100, but I know there are many more! They range from furniture transformations, craft projects, and home décor and organization ideas. Some are quite simple, and some will take some DIY experience. Here are 100 Creative Ways to Recycle. Here we go!

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8 Ways to Recycle Coffee Filters

16 Stylish Headboards

7 Unique Repurposed Table Ideas

5 Repurposed Storage Ideas to Update an Entryway

15 Ways to Reuse Old Shutters

10 Ways to Repurpose a Door

6 Upcycling Ideas for the Kitchen

My Top 15 Recycled Craft Projects of 2012

7 Ideas for Repurposed Furniture in your Bathroom

11 Upcycled Lighting Ideas

I hope you enjoyed my recycling inspired round-up. Like I said, there are many more on this blog… at least one hundred I know for sure!

What are some creative ways that you recycle? Are you a toilet paper hoarder like me?

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

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19th Feb2013

Upcycled Designs by mush.room studio

by Dinah Wulf

I e-meet so many inspiring and creative artist every week, especially on my Facebook page. Recently, I had the honor of meeting Vicky from mush.room studio. Mush.room studio is a collaboration of architect and design. They turn ordinary objects such as newspaper or glass bottles into fabulous yet useful art. I wanted to share some of these unique creations with you today. Here are six Upcycled Designs by mush.room studio.

This is a custom made floor lamp with an old metal structure, bottles of Coca-Cola, and wooden bottom.

Here is a clever table lamp with a black shade from an old jar and newspaper sculpture.

This is a unique Marilyn Monroe inspired lamp with a metal structure and a piece of salvaged drift wood for the base.

Made from an old drawer and reused as a shelf, this piece is painted inside with the Abraham Lincoln quote, “I am a slow walker but I never walk backwards.” This may be my favorite one. I would have never thought to have put a quote on the inside of the shelf. It’s a nice touch that can be personalized. Also pictured are custom made cushions with one –of-a-kind designs.

These are custom handmade signs made from old wood or drift wood with sayings like “home sweet home”, “imagine”, and “dream “. You can use them as ornaments, gift embellishments, or hang them in your home.

Thank you so much, Vicky for sharing your designs! Don’t forget to show your support on the mush.room studio Facebook page!

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Category : Inspiring People

Tags : Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Upcycling Ideas

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09th Jan2013

Repurposed Furniture for your Bathroom

by Dinah Wulf

I don’t know about you but I spend a lot of time in the bathroom…wait…that didn’t come out right! What I meant to write was that I spend a lot of time in my bathroom, getting ready, doing my hair, sorting laundry, and giving (my daughter) and taking baths! So today I wanted to share some fun finds, and creative I might add, of repurposed furniture for your bathroom.

Check out this very cool upcycled vintage suitcase turned medicine cabinet. (Sorry! I can’t find the correct source for this one!). Add some wood shelves and a mirror and voila…instant medicine cabinet and fun conversation piece for your house guests.

Oh I love this table vanity from Haute Nature. I think it’s the blue that is attracting me. I like the mix of the modern sink and metal hardware with a rustic table.

Another fun sink design is this bicycle sink by Benjamin Bullins… now THAT is a conversation piece!

Here is a beautiful dresser turned bathroom vanity. I love the added baskets for more storage.

I personally have my laundry baskets in my bathroom. This clever rolling hamper is by Apartment Therapy made out of old screens.

This is one idea I definitely would like to steal! This upcycled drawer I found on Woman’s Day. Simply add legs from a hardware store or salvaged legs from a thrift store table, and you have this unique and extremely useful storage table for all your bath time needs.

I saved the best for last. This is one is from one of my new favorite blogs, Infarrantly Creative (LOVE her). This is a stacked end table shelf Beckie made from what she calls a “Roadkill Rescue.”

Here are some more fun trash to treasure ideas and tutorials!

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Category : DIY Furniture

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurposed Furniture, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

4 Comm

27th Dec2012

DIY Craft Organization Board

by Dinah Wulf

This painting I found was in a pile of unwanted garage sale items about to hit the trash. Lucky for me, I was able to salvage a few of them before their journey to the garbage dump and ultimate demise. I am re-doing my office into a craft room…yay… and wanted to turn this old painting into a craft organization board. I made an organization board for my daughter’s room with an old painting and her first baby blanket, but for this one, I wanted to make it a little different. With a little tender loving care I literally turned this piece of trash into my treasure.

Here is a Before and After shot.

Materials You May Need:

Old Painting (best if it’s free!)
Paint or spray paint in the color of choice
Paint brush
Painter’s tape (optional)
Material (amount depends on the size of the frame)
Ribbon
Staple gun and staples
Hammer and nails (depending on frame)
Pliers
Imagination (this one is free too!)

Step One: Disassemble your frame.

For this particular frame the canvas popped right out. It was nailed to the frame, so I had to carefully remove the nails. At this point I cleaned both the canvas and frame as best as I could.

Step Two: Paint your frame.

This frame has a fun natural fiber edge to it (score!) so I had to use painter’s tape to protect the edges. I used left over paint I had from other projects. Otherwise, I would have spray painted it because it would have been easier and faster. I applied two coats of paint.

Step Three: Cover the canvas.

While I was waiting for the paint to dry, I covered the canvas with some utility fabric that I bought using a staple gun. I added a pocket for extra storage, and ribbon as well. I played around with the ribbon until I got my desired pattern. I attached the ribbon using the staple gun as well.

Step Four: Reassemble the frame.

For this particular frame, I had to nail the canvas back onto the frame.

Here are a few After photos.

That’s it! This project was so fun for me, and now I have a fun piece for my new craft room! Sneak peek coming soon!

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Category : Crafts, Kid Stuff, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

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27th Nov2012

CD Tower Advent Calendar

by Dinah Wulf

I was so excited to make an advent calendar this year because my daughter is finally old enough. I searched online for some inspiration and saw some great advent calendar ideas but none that I really wanted to do. Then one day, I was getting my guest room ready for some visiting friends and saw a CD tower that I had from college. I currently use this piece of repurposed furniture to house guest room necessities like towels, toiletries, pens, paper, and such. The cubbies are so useful and would be perfect to hold little wrapped gifts for my advent calendar… and it’s RED! Here’s how I made my CD Tower Advent Calendar.

This project only costs me $20, including all the little trinkets and presents inside. I know that’s a little more than most advent calendars, but still budget friendly. I bought items in the dollar bins that had three or more items in a package and broke the package up to save money. Some things I bought were pens, erasers, candy, stickers, hair clips, plastic play jewelry, and the last one… the grand finale… a Dora Explorer jump rope that costs $1.50.

I bought red and green paper sacks and different types of ribbon to embellish the packages (of course using my coupons AND shopping on black Friday). I used circle craft punches and printed numbers and letters on my computer. I thought the circles were perfect because they looked like ornaments. I punched a small hole on top and added ribbon for each number ornament. I also alternated the colors. With my left over paper and ribbon, I made a “days til Christmas” banner to go down the middle on the CD Tower.

Here are some more pictures.

Hope you like it!

Have you signed up for my emails? I’d love it if you did!

Oh! By the way! Uncarved (it that a word?) pumpkins last forever! Geesh! So I had to turn my Hello Kitty pumpkin into a Christmas Hello Kitty!

Until tomorrow!

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Category : Holidays, Kid Stuff

Tags : Christmas, Dinah's Tutorials, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

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03rd Oct2012

Repurposed Doors

by Dinah Wulf

There is so much inspiration out there for recycled DIY repurposed furniture ideas. I’ve noticed during my recent flea market trips and visits to Habitat for Humanity Restore that you can easily pick up an inexpensive wooden door. Here are some amazing ideas I found for repurposed doors.

How about making a kitchen island? This is gorgeous.

This door frames a coat hanger from Buckets Of Burlap.

This salvaged door headboard is from Goodhousekeeping.com.

I love this bright yellow upcycled barn sliding door! What a fantastic statement piece! You can never go wrong with a yellow, white, and gray color combination.

Door to door versus wall-to-wall!!

So very clever! This is a salvaged door painted with chalkboard paint. You can very chicly stay organized every day of the week!

This is a repurposed screen door from ApartmentTherapy.com. I love the double storage for both up top and hanging underneath.

Not my style, but love and appreciate the creativity of this coat hanger and organization station! There are several hooks, knobs, shelves, and even a basket to hold all of your things.

Green is definitely my color! I love this idea for a door coffee table. It looks fairly simple to make as well.

Lastly, this is a recycled door turned shelving unit.

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Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Refurbishing Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas

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06th Sep2012

Repurposed Shutters

by Dinah Wulf

Shutters are probably the one item that you can find in every flea market, garage sale, salvage yard, or recycling stores like Habitat for Humanity Restore. Not only are they abundant, but they are usually inexpensive. With a little paint and creativity, you can literally turn trash into treasure. Here are some great ideas for repurposed shutters.

In my search to find DIY inspiration for repurposed shutters, I found that most were used for organization. Shutters could be used for organizing everything from mail to potted plants or from family photos and post cards to kitchen utensils.

Here is a great idea using shutters for decorative display from 221 Vision.

Make a big impact in the dining room with these beautiful ideas.

This repurposed furniture idea is an outdoor table is from Goodhouskeeping.com.

I LOVE this free standing headboard from a display at Anthropologie. Once again, GREEN is my color!

This crafty shutter shelf is from BHG.com

Shutters work well for bathroom organization as well.

Additional Photo Sources: Etsy.com, Goodhousekeeping.com, Pintrest.com, Dwellinggawker.com

More Ways to Repurpose!

Thirty creative ways to recycle, reuse, and repurpose:

10 Ways to Recycle Newspaper
4 Ways to Reuse Old Boxes
5 Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Books
5 More Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Books
6 Ways to Recycle Bottles and Glass Jars

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Category : DIY Furniture, Interior Design Inspiration, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Refurbishing Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

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05th Sep2012

Repurposed Storage Ideas to Update an Entryway

by Dinah Wulf

The foyer or entryway to a home is usually the first impression your guests have when they come over. It’s often an inexpensive and budget-friendly area to remodel, since it is typically a small area. You may consider installing a durable wood or slate floor as a DIY idea to freshen this high traffic area. You can even repaint your front door an unexpected yet inviting color. Other simple and extremely low-cost updates are these repurposed storage ideas to update an entryway. These are my favorite ideas from BHG. Recycling or upcycling a flea market or garage sale finds is a fantastic way to add character and interest.

Use a collection of old mailboxes to help organize mail. Paint them in fun bold colors to add charm and personality.

This shabby chic mail storage idea is an upcycled porch railing. I wish I thought of this! What a beautiful way to organize an otherwise unsightly pile of paper (at least that’s what it is at my house).

I have an assortment of glass apothecary jars I use in my kitchen. This is also a great idea for an entryway. It’s a fabulous and beautiful way to display a collection. Apothecary jars are great investments because they are so versatile. You can use them in a bathroom or atop a mantel to display holiday decorations throughout the year.

Repurposing molding as a shelf is an unexpected upcycling idea. I love the thickness and detail of this particular piece. It adds character that a normal shelf would not have. You can find molding like this one at an architectural salvage or antique flea market.

Finally, use old shutters adding decorative brackets as a shelf for an entryway. Add hooks underneath for coats and hats for added storage. Shutters can be found at most flea markets and recycling centers like Habitat for Humanity Restore.

Photo Source: BHG

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

3 Comm

30th Aug2012

Repurposed Table Ideas

by Dinah Wulf

I have been blogging for what seems to be a while now. In my search for repurposed furniture I have seen some really cool and creative stuff. Today, I wanted to write about repurposed table ideas. I’ve seen a ton of suitcase tables and pallet tables but this time I wanted to find some truly unique pieces. Here is what I came up with!

I love this wood soda crate coffee table. I could have sworn I saw it on Martha Stewart show. She did a short DIY segment with the designer to create shadow boxes atop an old table base, with tempered glass securely placed on top.

This one is very clever and one I haven’t seen before. Can you guess what it is? It’s a repurposed fire hose reel! I love the natural patina and the industrial look. It also adds a great pop of color to a living, sitting, or family room. As an added bonus, there is storage underneath as well!

You’ll never guess what this is! The base is from a 1931 stove from a knotty pine cottage. I love the tri colors with a polished shine. Very pretty!

This is an upcycled spool top with modern and slick red metal legs. Love the combo of the two.

OK, so I have seen SEVERAL upcycled suitcase tables, but THIS one is awesome!!!! The storage underneath is fabulous and I love that it opens on both sides and looks like it folds up for easy storage…AMAZING!

Not much to say about this one except I had to post it in honor of my husband! LOL!

OK, not sure about this upcycled aquarium but someone out there liked it because it’s sold on Etsy!

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Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

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15th Aug2012

Repurposed Headboards

by Dinah Wulf

A DIY Inspired reader emailed me and asked for some repurposed headboard ideas… here we go!

A headboard in your bedroom or guest room can make a dramatic impact. Check out these low budget DIY headboard ideas using reused and recycled materials. These repurposed headboards are made from everything from reclaimed wood to fabulous inexpensive flea market finds.

Pallets are becoming more and more popular! I’ve written about repurposed pallets before and even shared some pallet headboard ideas, but now there is so much more out there! If you want to take this project on, don’t forget to check Craigslist in your area because many places are giving away pallets for free. Yes, that’s right…FREE! You can also check retail stores that sell large items like appliances for example. They will often give away their damaged pallets for free. There are several only slightly damaged ones that will still work well. If you follow me on Facebook you’d know that I’ve seen pallets laying out on the side of the road too! Anyway, check out these creative pallet bed frames from Graham & Co.

For the full tutorial for this pretty wood tree pallet headboard go to Little Bits Of.

Here are some more budget friendly headboards from HGTV.com using chalkboards, cork, metal, and flea market finds.

This is a cute idea for a chalk headboard. Change it up as you wish!

BHG has some great DIY ideas and repurposed furniture ideas reusing a fireplace screen, shutters, or doors.

So the next time you see a shipping pallet laying around, pick it up; or maybe you’ll think twice before leaving those garage sale shutters behind!

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Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

8 Comm

22nd May2012

Repurposed Shadow Box

by Dinah Wulf

I am very happy to be a guest here at DIY Inspired! I want to thank Dinah for the opportunity. I am Loren over at Pandora’s Craft box. I am a full time mom and crafter. I hate to cook but love to make messes. I am clumsy and hot tempered but I love with all that I have in my heart to give. I am hoping you all enjoy my journey in making my dreams come true and make a difference.

I am so excited to show you what I did last weekend. I was up to 2 am doing this project all by myself! It almost sounds like a song, haha. Yep, I am a little corny.

I am rating this post

I have had this shadow box for a couple of years and it has always been in the way. Its to big and bulky and it would never stay in place. Finally on Friday night I pick it up to place it somewhere else and it came to me. I’ve been looking for a footstool on craiglist, by the dumpster and The Salvation Army and I can’t find the right one. Why not make one? The stool is sturdy enough to handle the weight and big enough for my cute little tootsies.

The first thing I did was run to home depot and get stool legs which I then stained. One piece of advice don’t start staining in 90 degree weather because the wood won’t have enough time to soak in the stain and will dry to fast.

While doing this project I learned something new which was the thread rod extends. I was not told that by the associate. Don’t get me wrong I like the the HD associates and they are very helpful and knowledgeable but this little piece of information would have sped up the process. Another associate did recommend a T-nut to be used to hold the stool legs in place. I was so happy he recommended it, forgive the blurriness as i intended to take a better one but… well you’ll see.

The T-nuts have little teeth at the bottom to dig in the wood to make sure the legs stay in place. First you will need to make the hole and then hammer the t-nuts in the hole. Then you can attach leg bottom.

I cut a piece of airtrex foam chair pad to fit the top of the shadow box and then cut the Ikea fabric to cover the foam.

Second piece of advice make sure you fold in the edge of the fabric so you have a nice hold. If not you will need to take out the staples and do the hold thing all over again, like I did. I had already started gluing the trim when I figured out what I did wrong. The glue I used was fabric glue and it dries clear so it was not a big problem.

At the center of the box I decide to use Ikea fabric to cover the T-nuts.

Ta-Da!! I finished my footstool. If I wanted I could even attach the stool to the wall so it would not move. I have not decided if I want to remove the mounting hanger from it.

I know you where wondering what book I am reading, right? Are you reading any of the same ones?

I hope you liked my journey from shadow box to footstool. Now to go read a book. If you want to see my tutorial on the matching chair Here

Link Parties I attend

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Category : DIY Furniture

Tags : Guest Author, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

2 Comm

29th Mar2012

Upcycled Sweaters

by Dinah Wulf

Spring it here!!! It’s time to put away all those winter sweaters, or in my world upcycle them! Upcycling is taking something old and repurposing it into something new. As you may (or may not) know, I love promoting Etsy handmade sellers because I respect their craft and I just think it’s amazing all the ideas that these talented folks come up with. Here are a few of my favorite items for sale that are currently on Etsy. All of them are hand-crafted from upcycled sweaters… so awesome AND eco-chic (hey, that’s a new term I am officially coining today)!

These cupcake pin cushions made out of felted wool sweaters are a must have for every crafter. Complete with a cherry on top, it doubles as an ornament too!

I found some SUPER cozy pillows from Pams Warm Creations and Fancy Marmot.

Spring also means Spring cleaning and organizing! Check out these adorable upcycled hangers made from wool and cashmere by Folk City. What a great idea!

I don’t care how nice it is outside, every cup of coffee needs this eco-friendly coffee cup cozy made out of vintage upcycled sweaters.

Display your Spring flowers in this clever sweater vase made out of the sleeve of a vintage sweater.

And last but not least, just in time for Easter, the Easter bunny is bound to fill up this eco-friendly sweater Easter basket full of goodies made by Seasons of Wool.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Easter Ideas, Gift Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Spring, Upcycling Ideas

4 Comm

15th Feb2012

Repurposed Kitchen Inspiration

by Dinah Wulf

My motto is, “Repurpose, Reinvent.” (If you haven’t noticed )

I thought I’d put together some of my favorite repurposed kitchen ideas from some of my favorite websites.

A website I peruse often is Apartment Therapy. They have countless inventive and creative ideas. Check out this repurposed IKEA shoe rack turned pot holder and this salvaged card drawer turned kitchen storage.

Here are some repurposed fruit crates for shelving and storage from Poetic Home. I love the idea of displaying canned preserves in old mason jars as opposed to hiding them in the cupboard.

Anyone know where I can get truck springs? Check out these fabulous repurposed truck springs as bar or counter stools from House Beautiful. It reminds me of something from the Picker Sisters.

Card catalogues are popular. Also from Poetic Home, a card catalogue for kitchen utensils has enough compartments to store your knives, forks, spoons, serving utensils, napkins, and more!

Although not necessarily repurposed, this upcycled and salvaged dish rack from Country Living is beautiful.

I found this repurposed newsstand into a plate rack from a great blog, Craft Journal.

This cut idea from Better Homes and Gardens is simple and unique. Consider adding a magnet to the back and hanging them on your refrigerator.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

6 Comm

03rd Feb2012

Repurposed Lighting Inspiration

by Dinah Wulf

Everywhere I go, I always have my camera. Not only do I want to capture fun moments with my daughter, family, and friends, but I find decorating inspiration EVERYWHERE. I end up filing my pictures in digital folders on my computer.

I just noticed that I had taken several pictures of lighting ideas and thought I’d share them. Some of these pictures are old, but in my head, the store bought version is way too expensive anyway. I’d rather try and recreate them with flea market or thrift store finds.

Anyway, here is some really cool repurposed lighting inspiration that I’ve captured on my camera over the last several months. I think with a little creativity, you can get these looks for less.

This was a lamp I saw at Anthropologie. It’s simply a tea kettle, lamp kit, and colorful lamp shade. I’ve also seen lamps similar to this made out of stacked tea cups and saucers… super cute.

This one is also from Anthropologie (I frequent there often… love the window displays). It’s a lamp made out of recycled cardboard!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this one! The mix of an industrial metal basket and chic chandelier is fantastic!

If I recall correctly, the price tag on this one was pretty steep…several thousand dollars….yikes! I think a smaller version of this made out of mismatched thrift store silverware would be cute.

I can picture this one hanging in an enclosed patio or sun room. I like the mixture of glass bottles, shells, and twine.

Technically, this one isn’t repurposed, but it caught my eye.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Decorating Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

9 Comm

20th Jan2012

Six Ways to Recycle Maps

by Dinah Wulf

Maps are so beautiful. I’ve been looking for some ways to use them because I see them everywhere (including my glove box). Just like CD’s, record albums, and books, they are becoming obsolete due to the emergence of electronics like the GPS and the internet. But what I do love about maps is that they tell a story and simultaneously serve as a work of art. Here are six great ways to recycle maps.

One: Art Work

Check out these heart maps by Tcktyboo. Each heart represents a special place. For example, where you were married, where you went on your honeymoon, or where the kids were born.

I also saw a great idea on Pintrest (I can’t find the picture or source anymore) where a map was framed and the route to a special trip was stitched in a coordinating colored string… so cute! Update! Thanks to Adri, here is the link for that map! http://www.marthastewart.com/375160/map-artwork Thank you, Adri!!!

Two: Pillow

This is a pillow from Etsy inspired by a vintage map.

Three: Pinwheels

Another Etsy find, these cute pinwheels make a whimsical vintage wedding favor. Click here for different pinwheel tutorials.

Four: Upcycle Furniture

Here are three great examples of using decoupage on maps to turn an old piece of furniture into a unique and beautiful conversation piece.

Cover a wooden chest

Inspiration from Nate Berkus

Revamp an old Dresser

Add new life to an old Vanity

Five: Gift Wrap

Just in time for the holidays, use an old map as gift wrapping paper.

Six: Monograms or Letters

Use decoupage to commemorate a trip on craft letters (source unknown).

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Category : DIY Artwork, DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Gift Ideas, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas, Wedding Ideas

10 Comm

18th Jan2012

Repurposed Crate Ideas

by Dinah Wulf

A few months ago, I did a blog post on recycling old crates. It included using crates for shelving, bike baskets, and side tables. Since then, I have gathered a collection of old wine crates from a wine tasting party I did in October. I’ve been searching for more inspiration for a new project and found some other great repurposed crate ideas. Here are a few pictures.

This wine crate dog bowl would be a perfect DIY project for me, especially since I have two little pups, Harley and Pablo.

I like these ideas of layering and using a crate as a planter. This would also look nice outside, on a patio or atrium. The problem with this idea is that I don’t have a green thumb, so I don’t really have that many plants.

How cool is this… creating a rustic work space in the garage complemented with a wood bench. The problem with this is that my garage has no room for it.

I’m guessing these are milk crates? Love this look, but my collection of crates are too small and are in different shapes and sizes.

This is also great. These crate shelves have two purposes. It’s functional for holding kitchen necessities as well as displays a collection of antiques. My issue with this idea is that my kitchen is so small that I have no wall space for this.

I started a list a while back of how I should repurpose my collection of wine crates including making a jewelry case, a cornice, a seat, or a dog bed, but I still can’t decide.

Any ideas or suggestions? I feel stuck… help!

Photo Sources: Eco Salon, funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot, Green Dairy, Love1, Remodelaholic, tangledepartment.blogspot

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

2 Comm

10th Jan2012

DIY Ribbon Board

by Dinah Wulf

I always see these cute ribbon boards at gift shops, catalogues, and craft fairs. They are great for organization for an office or (in my case) my daughter’s room. I made this DIY Ribbon Board for items such as her hair bows, clips, and photographs.

Another reason I wanted to make this DIY Ribbon Board is because the my daughter’s first baby blanket was getting worn out by the washing machine and I wanted to preserve it somehow, without hiding it in a keepsake trunk where no one would see it. Here is how I made it.

Materials:

Old painting or frame and canvas
Fabric
Ribbon
Scissors
Staple Gun
Paint (optional)
Pliers (if you are using an existing painting)

I had this old painting that was sitting in a box in my garage.

I turned it over and discovered that I needed to use pliers to remove the staples. Remove the canvas.

I took my daughters first baby blanket, trimmed it, and stapled it taut to the canvas.

I decided to paint my frame. I used two coats of paint plus a touch up.

In the meantime, while waiting for the paint to dry, I cut out my strips of ribbon, laying them out in the desired pattern.

One by one, I stapled each ribbon bottom to top and left to right (or vice versa), and then weaving bottom to top right to left. I also stapled the ribbon to the edge of the canvas to make it more secure.

Finally, when the paint is completely dry, (I waited overnight), insert the canvas.

Here are some close up and after pictures.

Thank you for reading!

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Category : DIY Artwork, Kid Stuff, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Craft Ideas, Dinah's Tutorials, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

13 Comm

28th Nov2011

Repurposed Pallets

by Dinah Wulf

I love the idea of repurposed pallets into furniture or art. When I first thought of doing my own project, I would drive around town looking near the dumpsters of commercial and retail buildings. The last time I went to Home Depot, I asked if I could buy them and they said depending on the type, they ran from $15 to $60 a piece. Well, it really goes without saying that I’m too cheap for that so I kept on with my search.

Utilizing my resources, I called one of my best friends who works for a high end appliance manufacturer. Low and behold! She texts me right away with a picture and says, “Here is what we are about to throw away. Do you want any of these?” My answer? “On my way.” So my little one and I hopped in the car. To this destination… aka… free pallet heaven.

Thanks to my friend who, by the way was in heels, I was able to jam two and a half in the back of my car. Now… what to do with them? A few days later they are still sitting in my garage awaiting my attention. In the meantime I searched for some inspiration. Here are some amazing ideas I found, but for now I’m still undecided.

Pallet Coffee tables

[Via]

Pallet Art

Flea Market Finds magazine

[Via]

Pintrest

Pallet Dining Table

Pintrest

Pallet Benches

[Via]

Pintrest

Pallet Headboard

[Via]

Pallet Garden

Pintrest

Pallet Coat Hanger

Pintrest

Pallet Shelving

[Via]

Pallet Entertainment Center

[Via]

P.S. Happy Birthday, Trina Bean! Thanks for getting down and dirty with me. I heart you, best friend!!!!

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Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Refurbishing Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

15 Comm

18th Nov2011

Repurposed Media Cabinets

by Dinah Wulf

There are so many great things about the flat screen television of today. For example, a) the picture is almost better than real life, b) they have a great sleek modern look, c) although the screen is bigger, they take up less space because you can hang them on your wall. But the WORST thing about the flat screen TV, especially when you buy your first one, is what the heck do you do with that media cabinet that no longer fits your longer, flatter, modern boob tube? Well, here’s a little inspiration to help transform your old media cabinet into something more useful.

Here are four great ideas for repurposed media cabinets.

Toy Storage

What is great about these outdated cabinets is the depth. They can potentially store a lot of things. I used my old cabinet for my daughter’s toy storage. I also saved pictures one of her best friends colored and taped them to the inside doors. When it is closed, the toys are hidden away.

The second picture is also for toy storage. I saw this on an episode of Home Made Simple.

Craft & Sewing Storage

How cute is this from Girl in Pink? It’s perfect for all your craft or sewing supplies and fabric can be neatly kept and organized in the drawers.

Laundry Station and Organization

I saw this in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine. Add a tension rod to hang clothes and attach a folding ironing board on the side… brilliant!

Kid’s Play Kitchen

This last one is my favorite! I plan to do a variation of this one (coming soon).

This one is from Design Dazzle. I love the chalkboard door on the front.

This blue kitchen is from an unknown source. I did find it on Pintrest. I love how they added a fake outdoor scene out the window.

This last one is adorable! It is from Better After. My favorite part is the mini chandelier… so cute!

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Category : Kid Stuff, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

5 Comm

16th Sep2011

6 Ways to Repurpose Suitcases

by Dinah Wulf

6 Ways to Repurpose Suitcases

I love the look of vintage suitcases. There are so many beautiful styles and colors. Made of many different materials, vintage suitcases are perfect for repurposing and adding some character and style to your home decor.

Vintage suitcases can be purchased at any thrift shop, flea market, or antique store. Don’t forget to check the basement or attic of your parents or grandparents house!

Here are six ways to repurpose suitcases.

This Craft Storage Case (source unknown) is a great repurposing idea. Line the inside with pages of books or decorative paper or newspaper. Add elastic and or pockets to hold items. Small boxes for additional storage and organization are perfect for a snug fit.

Have an entire luggage set? Make a matching Luggage Case Table Set by adding legs in a fun color.

Check out this dog pet bed and cat bunk bed. Just remove the top of the case, screw in wooden legs, and insert a pillow or existing bed. Legs like these are inexpensive and can be found at any hardware store. I am definitely going to make this one!

This suitcase vanity chest I found on Etsy in brilliant! I would have never thought of it. I love how the interior is lined with maps and a world atlas. The mirror, drawers and lighting adds to the use and function.

I saved the best for last. This luggage chair is gorgeous. I love the colors and the white tufted fabric that was chosen. The curvy shape of the legs and the original brass fixtures complete the look and style.

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Category : DIY Furniture, Trash To Treasure

Tags : Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Storage Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

6 Comm

09th Sep2011

7 Ways to Reuse Light Bulbs

by Dinah Wulf

7 Ways to Reuse Light Bulbs

So I decided that today is Reuse and Recycle Friday. If you’ve been following my blog then you are familiar with my obsession to creatively recycle, reuse, and repurpose. I’ve done blog posts in the past about reusing old, crates, old books, boxes, jars, beer bottles, you name it.

Being the geek that I am, I inspected, rummaged, and explored my house to see what other household items could be recycled creatively. In thought, I looked up, finger on the tip of my nose, and saw them staring right at me. Light bulbs! So here is what I found…because apparently there are several other people out there (well, at least six) that thought of the same thing. Here we go, seven cool
and artistic ways to reuse light bulbs.

Design Squish, one of my favorite websites, showed how to make these cute oil lamps.

How great is this light bulb lamp and cube hanging lamp posted by fellow blogger at technabob.com? I love the industrial style of the hanging bulb light fixture. It’s genius and doubles as a sculpture!

OK, this “fish bowl” is a really cute idea, but can a fish really survive in there? Maybe a plastic fish is better.

These hanging bud vases would be a super cute party or garden decoration.

One of my favorites, this terrarium piece adds life to any room. It’s pretty too!

Last but not least, so creative and love; this is another great idea for a simple party centerpiece. Check out this cute light bulb bud vase.

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Category : Trash To Treasure

Tags : Centerpieces, Recycling Ideas, Repurpose, Repurposed Furniture, Repurposing Ideas, Upcycling Ideas

8 Comm

02nd Sep2011

Trash to Treasure: Recycling Old Crates

by Dinah Wulf

Trash to Treasure: Recycling Old Crates

I’ve blogged about it numerous times and I have to do it again! This is yet another post on reusing, recycling, and repurposing. Today I decided to take on recycling old crates!

Who knew shipping crates could look this good? This was a post on Design Squish that I had to share. Check out these amazing ideas. Love these shelves, bike basket, and crate furniture from Design Squish; Shipping Crate Bike Basket from Globe Revolution; and Crate Shelves from Baileys Home and Garden!

The shelving system has to be my favorite. It has a vintage modern look that I love. Also, if you notice the last crate shelf picture, there is a crate on the floor with wheels added. What a great idea for additional storage for toys, or a bassinet for baby dolls!

How cool are the colorful plastic chair, side and end table? Depending on the size and style, you can purchase wooden legs from Home Depot for about five to twenty dollars a piece. There are several choices from traditional to modern styles.

I had mentioned the other day that you can get wine crates for free or for less than five dollars each from most spirit wine and liquor specialty stores. Just ask! Call to find out when they receive shipments and ask to take them off their hands. Otherwise, they will likely get broken down and thrown out.

Thirty creative ways to recycle, reuse, and repurpose: