2.12 billion. That’s the amount of waste that gets dumped every single year. 99 percent of the time, the new things we buy only last for around 6 months before it gets dumped along with all the other waste.
We live in a consumer driven society and it is hard to completely change that. However, there is still a way where we can help in reducing the amount of waste that gets dumped, and that is through upcycling.
Upcycling, also known as creative reuse, is giving new life into old products that can be considered as waste and turning it into new and more useful products. It is the opposite of recycling, wherein you destroy the old product in order to save the components that can still be reused.
There is no limit on what you can do with upcycling. It is a more sustainable and cost effective option compared to purchasing new products. What is even better about it is that you can start your own upcycling project in the comforts of your own home.
Before deciding to throw away your old furniture, why not get creative and upcycle? Here are some things that you should know as an upcycling beginner.
Check your product first.
Often than not, old products or furniture are not entirely unusable. They may just need to be fixed or even restored. Also take note of its value. You might be considering throwing away a valuable piece of antique furniture.
Preparation is key.
When you do decide to proceed with your upcycle project, plan ahead and prepare. Create a checklist of the tools, equipment, and materials that you will be needing to make this project a reality. You can even thrift some of the materials like fabric.
Let your imagination run wild.
Upcycling is giving old products a new purpose instead of discarding them. Think outside of the box on what you can do. Remember: there is no limit. Be as resourceful as you can.
Have that old Singer sewing machine lying around the house? Why not turn its table into a night stand? Have a bunch of crates in the basement? Why not turn them into a modern display case or shelf?
Think of what will be more useful at home and convert old furniture into just that.
Be inspired.
It is okay if you cannot come up with your own ideas. Be inspired by others’ projects. You can turn to Pinterest and look up upcycled furniture ideas to base your own project on. It is all in the matter of how you will make it your own!
Get started.
Do not hesitate to make mistakes on your first project. It is part of the process. What is important is how you will go around those mistakes and make something beautiful and useful out of them.
Good luck on your first upcycling project!
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