If you’re on a budget or like unique items, upcycling vintage items purchased at estate sales or thrift stores is something you can do to save money and have one-of-a-kind pieces for your home.
In a previous post we talked about the rise of vintage, but now we’re going to offer some ideas for DIY projects using vintage items to stir up the creative juices and hopefully inspire you to create something unique!
Midwestliving.com posted a nice idea for repurposing dinged up or rusty kitchenware. Spray all the items in one color and hang them up on the wall or showcase on a shelf for a fun and unique display.
Photo via MidwestLiving.com
In our upcoming monthly online estate sale we have tons of old kitchenware, copperware, and other gadgets that could use a refresh with a coat of paint. A couple of the lots have groupings of copper items that could be painted or repurposed to give them new life.
A creative way to upcycle an old globe and give it a more personalized, modern look is to hand paint it in bold, fun colors. Abby over at StyleMePretty.com shares a how-to that can save you a great deal of money. Instead of paying $198 in a store like Anthropologie, you can recreate this pretty painted globe for around $30.
Photo credit: 1canoe2 blog
Vintage teacups are great for collectors, but did you know that they could also be used as planters for small succulents or put together to make a unique jewelry stand? DIY & Crafts offers many more creative uses for tea cups and saucers.
Speaking of planters, you could also use old tins, flour sifters, ladles, and even old tea kettles could be repurposed into fun plant holders.
Love to bake or have dinner parties? Brand new cake stands or serving trays can sometimes be a tad bit pricey, so why not make your own for a few bucks with vintage plates, candlesticks, and a can of Rustoleum? The Home Depot blog has a very easy tutorial to craft a stylish cake stand.
Every once in awhile we come across glass insulators, which were originally used for power and telephone transmission lines. Insulators are another one of those great collector items, but many people have given them new life by turning them into candle holders, wall sconces, chandeliers, table lamps, and more. Check out all these ideas over at Recyclart.org.
Have any other creative ideas to share? Have you ever repurposed or upcycled any vintage items? Share a pic of it on our Facebook page! While you’re there, make sure to like our page so that you can get updates on upcoming online estate sale auctions. There are always deals to be had on vintage items, plus awesome collectibles, furniture, memorabilia, and more.
