Make it New! How To Repurpose Common Household Items

I don’t like throwing away things that are in mostly good condition. The problem is that sometimes things get stained, ripped, or slightly damaged in a small area so they can no longer be used for their original purpose. That is when I like to get creative and repurpose the item into something new!

I had a shower curtain that was ripped in two places. That happens when boys horseplay and one falls into the bathtub pulling the shower curtain with him. To save my sanity, and the shower curtain that I loved, I set out to repurpose it. Because the shower curtain is designed to endure heavy moisture I knew it would make a perfect decorative item for the bathroom. I entertained several ideas and finally settled on repurposing it as a wreath.

I cut the shower curtain into thin strips and tied them around a wire wreath frame. Once it was full enough for my liking I added the seashells to complete the look.

I have a weakness for jars. I like all kinds. I will find a way to repurpose them just so I can keep them. One of my favorites is a large pickle jar that I often use as a vase. I like to keep things interesting so I often change out the way I decorate it. One time in particular I decided to use an old sheet. I cut the sheet into strips and wrapped them around the vase and tied it tight. It created a very detailed and stylish look.

We had an old child’s plate that was scratched beyond repair. I decided to repurpose it as some sort of decor. First I painted it with chalk paint and then I stenciled on a chandelier. Finally, I wrote each family member’s name in chalk around the edges. I think it is pretty fabulous!

I found this old lamp at a yard sale. It was a hideous 80′s pink with brass accents. I really liked the shape and it still worked so I decided to make it into something new. I found this rope in the garage and superglued it all around the base. I put a new shade on it too. I am so happy with the way it turned out. It was a fast, easy, and inexpensive way to make this lamp beautiful again.

This project was easy peasy. I found an old wine crate in our garage and immediately thought that it would make a great holder for toilet tissue. It is the perfect size for the back of the commode and it easily fits 3 rolls. I spray painted it with an oil rubbed bronze spray and then I added an old bath scrunchie to make it look like it belongs in a bathroom. I like repurposing old scrunchies too. They make great accents in bathrooms.

It makes me happy to be able to repurpose things for our home. I think it gives them such character and charm and because I put time and effort into recreating them, I appreciate them much more.

What things have your repurposed lately?

This entry was posted in Decorating, DIY, Home by Amy Bayliss. Bookmark the permalink.

About Amy Bayliss

In her home, Amy Bayliss is the sole expert on all things pretty and organized. She’s proud to be married to Ryan, a 6’5” hunk who’s a pro taming their brood. They have a blended family that consists of four rambunctious boys who range in age from 2 to 15. It takes some pretty creative engineering to keep her home in order but she does it with style and grace. Amy is the co-founder of DIY Ministry, an affordable consulting solution for those looking to build an online platform. She has been featured in Woman’s Day Magazine and was cover girl for CWO Magazine in August of 2008.  She is creator of Homemaker’s Challenge and her personal blog, Cajun Joie de Vivre. You can follow her ramblings on Twitter and keep up with her mischief on Facebook.
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  • http://roomforpatience.blogspot.com/ Christina

    I’m rather new at homemaking, and lately I’ve been finding out how satisfy and efficient repurposing is! Thanks so much for these ideas; some of them will most definitely work in our home!

  • Carly Erin Decker

    We bought a used fridge and there were some scratches on one side. So I used some chalkboard paint I already had and painted the side with the scratches! Now a not so pretty fridge side it’s re-purposed for lists, messages, and a fun place for kiddos to draw!

  • http://amybayliss.com Amy Bayliss

    That is a great idea, Carly!

  • http://amybayliss.com Amy Bayliss

    Repurposing is so satisfying and cost efficient. Besides, there is something so special about being surrounded by things you made with your own hands. I love it!

  • Crafty Mama

    Great ideas! I need to work on my creativity for the home. Thanks for sharing!!