Today, June 24th is National Upcycling Day! and you know I love upcycling, so it’s a happy day!
What is National Upcycling Day
National Upcycling Day celebrates the idea of reusing, repurposing old items instead of throwing them away.
The word “upcycling” has been around since the 90’s but didn’t get much traction until 2002 when there was a push to throw away less. Since then, there have been a ton of YouTubers, crafters, bloggers, and every-day people working to reuse their stuff so we can all live sustainable lives and save our planet.
Here are a few of my favorite upcyclers and zero wasters:
How to Upcycle
If you’re new to upcycling or you just want some new ideas, I’m sharing a few of my favorite, easy projects to get you going.
Succulent Planter from Beer Cans
Did you know that beer cans are easily recyclable? Aluminum is a fantastic material because it only takes about 60 days from the day it gets recycled to the day it returns to a store shelf. That’s something to celebrate!
However, some people, depending on where they live, might not be able to recycle. In that case, take advantage of those beer cans by making succulent planters! It doesn’t matter if the can gets dented a bit because it adds character, as you can see below. I love these because they make charming home decor and thoughtful gifts for plant or beer loves.
Some wine is now sold in cans so if you have a wine and plant lover in your life, you know what your next gift is, right?
Reuse Cardboard Boxes to Make Storage Bins
Forgot about buying expensive storage boxes. It literally takes about 10 minutes to make one of these cute upcycled bins. Get yourself a utility knife and patterned contact paper and get to work!
Remove Labels from Glass Jars to Use as Food or Craft Storage
Jars can be reused for so many storage options: food, craft supplies, beauty items, etc. Learn how to easily get those stubborn labels off and upcycle your jars!
Reused glass jars 
Bathroom storage 
Washi Tape storage 
Food storage
Save Plastic Bottles to Make a Self-Watering Planter
I think we can all agree that the hardest part about growing plants is making sure they have the right amount of water. Cut your plastic bottles in half to make a self-watering planter and save yourself the hassle of checking the water level every other day. You and your plants will be happier.
Cut Up Cereal Boxes to Make Kitchen Organizers
We all have cereal boxes laying around at some point. Get some contact paper and scissors and make an organizer for your baggies (you can them that, right?) and foil rolls. If you have Command Hooks, you can easily attach it to your cupboard doors.
Reuse Oatmeal Containers to Organize Your Vanity
Oatmeal containers are perfect for organizing lotion bottles, deodorant, and brushes on your dresser or vanity. A little bit of rope and hot glue go a long way! I’ve had these on my dresser for years. I love them!
Those are my favorite projects for upcycling everyday items, but there are more! Go check out all of my upcycling projects. If you have ideas for upcycling or want ideas outside of what I have available, let me know. I’d love to get your feedback.
Happy crafting!
These are all great ideas! We have tons of boxes from moving and you just gave me an idea on what to do with them. 🙂
Wonderful! I seriously make so many shipping boxes into storage bins. They’re in nearly every room in my house. I hope you love them!