7 Upcycling Ideas to Save on Home Décor: Creative Ways to Refresh Your Space on a Budget

Turn Old Picture Frames into Wall Art

Got old picture frames lying around? Instead of throwing them out, repurpose them into beautiful wall art. You can paint the frames to match your décor and fill them with creative artwork, fabric swatches, or even dried flowers for a fresh look.

How to Upcycle:

• Paint or stain the frames to complement your existing décor.
• Add new artwork, prints, or fabric for a pop of color.
• Use multiple frames to create a gallery wall.
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Money-Saving Tip: Check out thrift stores for inexpensive frames that can easily be transformed into something new.

Create Candle Holders from Mason Jars

Mason jars are incredibly versatile when it comes to upcycling. You can easily turn them into charming candle holders for a cozy, rustic vibe. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, this simple project adds a touch of warmth to any room.

How to Upcycle:

• Clean the jars thoroughly.
• Add sand, pebbles, or decorative stones to the bottom of the jars for stability.
• Place tea lights or small candles inside the jars.

Money-Saving Tip: Use jars from old sauces or jams to upcycle without spending any extra money.

Use Old Fabrics for Throw Pillows

If you have old fabrics, scarves, or even shirts that you no longer wear, consider turning them into throw pillows. This DIY project is a great way to add unique patterns and textures to your living room or bedroom without spending a dime on new pillow covers.

How to Upcycle:

• Measure and cut the fabric to fit your pillow inserts.
• Sew or use fabric glue to create a custom pillow cover.
• Mix and match fabrics for a fun, eclectic look.

Money-Saving Tip: Use fabric scraps from old clothes or curtains to reduce waste and save money.

Repurpose Wooden Crates into Shelving

Wooden crates are perfect for creating rustic, DIY shelves that add both function and style to your home. Whether you need more storage or want a statement piece for your wall, upcycling crates is an affordable way to add character to your space.

How to Upcycle:

• Sand and stain the crates to match your home’s color scheme.
• Stack the crates horizontally or vertically to create a shelving unit.
• Secure them to the wall for extra stability.

Money-Saving Tip: Look for free or low-cost crates from grocery stores or online marketplaces.

Transform Wine Bottles into Vases

Don’t toss those empty wine bottles just yet! They can be transformed into beautiful, decorative vases. With just a little paint or twine, you can create stylish vases to display flowers or other décor items.

How to Upcycle:

• Remove the labels from the bottles.
• Paint the bottles with glass-friendly paint or wrap them with twine or fabric.
• Use them as vases for fresh flowers or dried botanicals.

Money-Saving Tip: You can often get empty wine bottles from friends or local restaurants if you don’t have your own.

Turn Old Ladders into Bookshelves

An old wooden ladder can be easily upcycled into a unique bookshelf or decorative display. Ladders provide a great way to showcase plants, books, or picture frames while adding a rustic, farmhouse touch to your space.

How to Upcycle:

• Sand and paint or stain the ladder.
• Lean it against the wall, or secure it for stability.
• Use the rungs to display plants, books, or other decorative items.

Money-Saving Tip: Check online classifieds or yard sales for old ladders that you can upcycle on the cheap.

Repurpose Old Mirrors into Trays

If you have an old mirror that’s no longer in use, you can upcycle it into a decorative tray for your coffee table or vanity. It’s a chic way to add a touch of elegance to your home while repurposing something you already own.

How to Upcycle:

• Remove the mirror from its frame, if necessary.
• Add decorative handles to the sides to turn it into a functional tray.
• Use the tray to display candles, books, or jewelry.

Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying a new tray, repurpose old mirrors to add style to your space without spending a dime.