The 45 Best Upcycling Hacks Ever

Claire Moshenberg
Apr 22, 2014

Making is even more fun (and infinitely more green) when it includes a little upcycling and recycling. Who doesn’t love turning everyday items into amazing home and wardrobe accessories? It’s like upscale shopping in your recycling bin. You just need a little DIY magic.

1. Cheese Grater Earring Caddy: Cheese grater on its last legs? Repurpose it! Try this clever trick to transform it into stylish storage for your earrings.

2. Concrete Vases: Old bottles get a new chic life when they’re transformed into concrete vases.

3. Color Block Wall Hook: Who knew an old branch could look so glam? A quick coat of paint turns backyard debris into a fun wall hook.

4. Upcycled Magazine Wall Art: Give old magazines a new life as part of your wall decor! Transform those glossy pages into gorgeous wall art.

5. Candy Jar Terrarium: Oh terrariums, we adore you. You could make this version out of a candy jar or any other jar you’d like to recycle.

6. Snow Globe In A Jar: Keep the jar upcycling going with these adorable, easy-to-make snow globes.

7. Cookie Sheet Memo Boards: Scratched up cookie sheets? Put them to good use as stylish memo boards. How cute would these look with some bright color blocking?

8. Beer Bottle Bud Vases: Beer bottles, we hardly recognized you! Who knew they could transform into delicate bud vases?

9. Color Block Coffee Can Wine Rack: Coffee and wine: two of our faves together at last. Give empty coffee cans a color block makeover and transform them into a cozy home for your vino.

10. Sweater Infinity Scarf: Old sweaters can still keep you cozy and chic after their wearable days are over. Transform an old favorite sweater into a gorgeous infinity scarf with this simple tutorial.

11. Plastic Bottle Concrete Pendant Lamps: Concrete gives your plastic bottles another stylish transformation, this time as swoon-worthy pendant lamps.

12. The Ultimate Accessory Organizer: Spring cleaning season is here, and it’s time to get organized! This rustic-glam accessory organizer is a nice start, and a way to put an old frame to good use.

13. Recycled Newspaper Rosette Bobby Pin: Ever make a newspaper pirate hat when you were a kid? Here’s a more stylish way to wear newspapers on your head.

14. Recycled Bucket Ottoman: Old buckets become fresh new ottomans, complete with rope details and customizable fabric cushions.

15. Wine Bottle Tumblers: These DIY tumblers make drinking straight out of the bottle classy.

16. Floppy Disk Planters: This is a kitschy way to update your apartment for spring. We could even see these as part of some geeky wedding decor.

17. Clip On Desk Organizers: Transform tin cans into handy, clip on desk organizers.

18. Glitter Boots: If the leather on your boots got discolored due to some serious winter weather, you can revive them with a little glitter. Distraction tactics!

19. Colorful Shoebox Shelves: We’re always in the market for more colorful storage… and more shoes.

20. Rope Bottle Vases: Fresh flowers, nautical rope details and a fun color pop — show off pretty spring blossoms and recycle your bottles!

21. Cork Trivet Color Block Clock: Finally, you know exactly what to do with those cork trivets that you got from your Aunt Rhonda for your birthday.

22. Recycled Pallet Dining Room Set: We’re a little obsessed with pallets, and we’re not the only ones. Now you can show off your pallet obsession too with a whole DIY dining room set.

23. Striped Wool Pencil Pot: Tin cans get cozy in this adorable wool covered pencil organizer.

24. Jenga Set Necklace Rack: Have old Jenga pieces lying around with nowhere to go? Transform them into this awesome Jenga jewelry rack.

25. Plate and Glass Cake Stands: So simple and so adorable if we do say so ourselves.

26. Sweater Plant Pot Vase: Growing a kitchen herb garden? Give it some pizzazz and keep your herbs snuggly with this use of an old sweater.

27. Recycled Yoga Mat Bulletin Board: Add a little more yoga to your life without even having to do a downward dog. Recycled yoga mat bulletin boards keep you organized, while maybe reminding you to get it om.

28. Belted Storage Bins: Believe it or not these glam and oh-so-portable storage bins are made out of recycled paper boxes.

29. CD Case Desk Organizer: Get organized by giving your old CD cases a few dabs of glue.

30. Dangly Earring Holder: Because you can never have too many ways to store your accessories AND because you have no idea what to do with that massive plastic top that covered all of your blank CDs.

31. Desk Makeover: Have your little ones outgrown their playtime desk? Give it a grownup makeover by turning it into a desk that you’d want to use yourself.

32. Vintage Book Clutch: Transform an old vintage book into a clutch! Snazzy handbags can be pricey, but this one is a steal.

33. Egg Carton Centerpiece: Make an omelette, then make the perfect spring table centerpiece. Eggshells and egg cartons get a seasonal makeover with the addition of fresh flowers.

34. Recycled Pallet Couch: More pallets please! This time, our favorite recyclable gets turned into a fun, beachy couch.

35. Gold Wall Art: A new canvas and old thumb tacks, a match made in heaven. Who knew?

36. Coffee Filter Pennant: We’ve all been there: You buy coffee filters, they don’t fit your coffee pot and you can’t return them. Instead of having them hang out in your kitchen forever, turn them into a festive pennant for your next party.

37. Bubble Wrap Mailed iPad Case: Got an old bubble mailer laying around? You’ve got yourself a new iPad case.

38. Paper Roll Tree Topper: Though this fabric scrap wrapping hack looks perfect for the holidays, you could get away with gifting the look all year long.

39. Nautical Necklaces: We hope the nautical trend is here to stay, because we’re ready to turn all of our old t-shirts into recycled necklaces.

40. Face Blotting Papers: Double recycling! Well, kinda of. Coffee filters and an old Altoids tin come together in this DIY oil absorption answer.

41. Cozy Cuffs: Mason jars, you make everything better. This handy craft is not only good looking, but it makes use of the rings rather than the jar itself.

42. Jewel Case Planter: Yup, another planter! We couldn’t resist. Greening your apartment is an Earth Day must.

43. Tiered Copper Necklace: Recycle old sheets, t-shirts or any kind of fabric scraps into a glam necklace. Also, it’s good time to get on that copper trend.

44. Outlet Cover: Try as you might, you’ll never get those junky mailers to stop showing up in your mailbox. But there are about a million different things you can do with them from making a piñata to wrapping a present to adding some details to your outlet covers.

45. Mason Jar Votive: We leave you with one final double recycling duo. Mason jars and an old sweater are now you’re new favorite candle holder.

What’s your favorite recycled craft project? Any plans to do an upcycling or recycling project for Earth Day? Let us know in the comments!

14 Unbelievable, Edible Ways to Upcycle Food Scraps

Before you toss those food scraps on the compost pile (or in the trash bin), take a peek at all of the clever ways that they can be repurposed. From peels to cores, poultry to produce and everything in between, these 14 awesome upcycled food recipes help you make the most out of your groceries and make your meals feelbrand new. It's a smart move that's just as good for the Earth as it is for your wallet. Oh yeah, and they taste great too!

Upcycled Food Recipes To Make In 2024

Bacon Fat: The crisp slices may be the real star, but the bacon fat is nothing to just discard. (Plus, tossing it down the drain or in the trash can't be good for your home's plumbing or the environment, right?). It adds a subtle smokiness to this yummy bacon jam, but you can also use it as a popcorn topping!. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Peels: Turn your favorite peels into marmalade with this easy recipe. Spread it on toast for breakfast or use it in a dessert — it's just that versatile. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seeds: We can hardly keep track of all the ways pumpkin seeds and guts can be repurposed. Stirring them into puppy chow is a great option for those who enjoy theirs a little sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Peels: You'll love sipping on homemade apple peel bourbonas a spicy, warming alternative to the usual flavored vodka and “fiery" store-bought selections. The sweet, autumnal notes mean it's just as good enjoyed neat or in a hot toddy. (via Food52)

Leftover Bones: Whip up a batch of brodo or this delicious creamy chicken, mushroom and green chile soup the next time you roast a chicken and pick it clean. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Chard Stems: Yeah, we can pickle chard stems for a sour afternoon pick-me-up. Not feeling something so puckery? Toss them on the grill instead. (via Bon Appétit)

Broccoli Stalks: Use the florets in your next stir fry, then transform the stalks into tasty baked fries like these broccoli stem fries. Dip 'em in chimichurri tahini for the ultimate snack. (via What's Cooking Good Looking)

Carrot Tops: If you buy fresh carrots with their tops, don't let them lop them off at the register. Instead, transform the fronds into a lovely pesto for roasted carrot soup. (via Cravings in Amsterdam)

Potato Peels: Crispy potato skins get an apeeling makeover when roasted, especially when sprinkled with cheese and scallions. (via The Kitchn)

Fennel Fronds: A pinch of fennel frond salt adds a subtle anise flavor anywhere it's sprinkled. (via Chew Town)

Apple Cores: Simmer apple cores and peels with a little sugar in a big pot of water to make an easy, no-waste apple juice. (via Inspiration Kitchen)

Papaya Seeds: You'll enjoy the interesting peppery taste papaya seeds lend this sweet and spicy watermelon blueberry salsa. Consider this the ultimate addition to the Memorial Day picnic. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Kale Stems: Kale stems are pretty tough to chew, but blending them in your next post-workout smoothie takes care of that issue, no sweat. Plus, when whirled with strawberries and banana, you'll hardly even know they're there. (via The Roasted Root)

Almond Pulp: If you make your own homemadealmond milk, it probably pains you a bit to just toss all the pulp you get after straining. Happily, it can be used to make grain-free cinnamon and peanut butter almond pulp crackers/cereal and more. (via The Edible Perspective)

What are some of your favorite hacks for turning trash into treasure, edible or not? Share your earth-friendly ideas (about upcycled food and more) with us on Twitter and follow us on Pinterest for more food inspo!

This post has been updated.

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Everyone's Convinced 'The White Lotus' Told Us The Killer In The Very First Episode

We're only one week away from The White Lotus finale — and finally answering the biggest question of all: who dies in The White Lotus season 3? Here's your official reminder that Mike White never passes up the opportunity for a death to be accidental & ironic (not to mention the character's fault), meaning we probably don't need to be looking for a murderer. And there's one White Lotus theory that suggests the killer's been in front of our faces the whole time: the poisonous pong pong fruit.

Here's a truly genius White Lotus theory about the season 3 finale, Saxon, and that poisonous fruit.

'The White Lotus' season 3 death will probably be another egomaniacal accident.

Theories are running rampant around who dies in The White Lotus season 3 finale — and who's responsible. But @popcultureari points out that, "In previous seasons we've seen how Mike White builds a ridiculous amount of tension between all the characters only to have the loose ends tied up with some ironic twist. And the main deaths aren't about killers lurking in the shadows, they're about people tripping over their own egos."

Remember when Tanya tripped in her heels, hit her head, and then drowned? "So in season 3, the body won't be from some shocking murder, it'll be from another self sabotage masterpiece," she continues. And the leading suspect? That poisonous fruit introduced in the first episode.

And it could cost the Ratliff family Saxon, Harper, and Lochlan.

More than one fan is wondering whether Jason Isaac's Timothy Ratliff will make a smoothie with the poisonous fruit to end his own life (since he doesn't have the gun anymore), and someone else will accidentally drink it. "There's a reason why they specifically mentioned the poison fruit so early on," one user says in the comments, while another points out how the camera always zooms into the blender.

But the most devastating take on this theory to me? That "I also do believe there will be 3 deaths because Chelsea keeps bringing up that bad things happen in 3s," another comment says. "3 siblings, 3 Russians, 3 friends."

More comments applaud @popcultureari for coming up with "such a good theory," but if Timothy makes the smoothie in The White Lotus season 3 finale, and then all three kids somehow end up dead, y'all will need to check on me!

What do you think about this White Lotus theory? Are you excited for the finale? Read up on The Most "Batsh—t" Yellowjackets Theory: "Everything Came Together" before the finale airs.

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25 DIYs You Need for Your First Apartment

If you're moving into your first apartment, it can be a bit intimidating. It's time to become an adult. Wait, what?! Dining, activities and exploration look a bit different right now and we're spending more time than ever in our spaces. The best way to get comfortable in a new city is to make your house feel like home. In this apartment 101 guide, we'll walk you through the basic steps to setting up a home of your own. Best part is, all of these DIY projects can be done on the cheap.

A Statement Wall

Spray a hula hoop, cut some ribbon, and print off some of your favorite pics for a cheap but stylish backdrop for your desk. (viaBrit + Co)

A Fresh Coat of Paint

This DIY can get pricey since paint and supplies come at a cost. If you want to keep the expenses down, opt to just paint one wall for statement. (via Brit + Co)

Black and White Memories

Listen to this — you can get large black and white prints for super cheap thanks to architects! Embrace the grainy effect by printing your favorite old memories. These large prints will be costly to frame, so we suggest sticking to washi frames. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Washi Tape Your Wall

You can add color instantly to your walls and remove it without your landlord getting mad. Score! Try shapes, patterns, diagonals, the sky's the limit! (via Brit + Co)

Accent Your Furniture

Use your leftover wall washi tape to create colorful accents on your furniture. (viaCarnet Deco)

Touch Up an Old Paint Job

Paint can do amazing things to IKEA furniture andcan boost the appeal of something cheap in an instant. (via Erin Spain)

A Chair Makeover

This DIY requires some thrift-store and garage-sale scouring. Once you've found the piece, add some patterns with fabric paint. Think about stripes, polka dots, plaid, floral, the list goes on. (via Sugar & Cloth)

A One-Of-A-Kind Bookcase

Update some crates with spray paint, and drill them together for a DIY bookcase to store all your odds and ends. (viaBrit + Co)

A New Bar Cart

This might look intimidating, but it is actually very doable. Transform an old dresser into a beautiful tiered rack to display all of your alcohol and cocktail glasses. (via Brit + Co)

Woven Wool Art

The key to adding instant warmth to your home is texture! Weavings are all the rage and can be made on the cheap. It will take some time but we promise it's worth it. (via Brit + Co)

Macrame Wall Decor

Don't have enough time for a wall weaving? We understand. Try a macrame wall hanging. You can add the same colors and warmth to your room in half the time needed for a weaving. (via Brit + Co)

A Colorful Wine Rack

A home isn't a home without a wine rack. Just kidding! But if you do feel compelled to show off your bottles, create this geometric wood display for your beautiful bottles. (via Brit + Co)

A DIY Quilt

Purchase some colorful, chunky wool yarn and start a quilt from scratch that's woven by your own two hands! (via Brit + Co)

Mermaid Curtains

You don't need a headboard for your bed — make a colorful curtain backdrop instead. (via Brit + Co)

A Painted Headboard

If you do buy a standard headboard but want to personalize it, grab some paint and give it a whole new look! (via Brit + Co)

A Pom Pom Duvet

Add some whimsical poofs to your duvet for an instant update. (via Brit + Co)

Personalized Pillows

Use iron-on transfers to update pillows with your favorite phrase. This DIY, plus many others, can be found in our book Homemakers. (via Brit + Co)

Cactus Pillows

Succulents will always win us over. Create this quirky DIY to add some whimsy to your decor. Don't worry — this DIY comes with a free printable to get the perfect cactus shape. (via Brit + Co)

Sequin Mermaid Pillows

Not a master at sewing? Take our sewing online class, then you'll be equipped to make these trendy pillows. (via Brit + Co)

Stamped Pillows

This is the perfect way to add patterns to your life. You'll never believe how easy it is to create your own stamps! (via Brit + Co)

Geometric Pillows

These pillows are great for couches, and they also double as floor pillows for lounging. Play with shapes, colors, and sizes and create a look that's all your own. (via Brit + Co)

A Leather Pendant Lamp

White leather mixed with a bright colored cord? We're swooning! We couldn't be more excited about this kit and can't wait to add this piece to our own space. (via Brit + Co)

Colorful Origami Lamps

Step up your paper-folding skills with this origami pendant lamp. Pro tip: These lights aren't meant to be used as your main light source. We recommend turning them on for reading or as a mood light. (via Brit + Co)

A Neon Light

Turn light into art with this hack that hits all the right marks. (via Brit + Co)

Follow us on Pinterest for more inspiration!

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6 Simple Things You Should Always Do Before Guests Arrive

I love hosting and making my guests feel at home. And living in a tourist destination (Sonoma wine country) means I get a lot of them — especially as the weather warms up. Over time, I’ve learned that creating a warm, welcoming space doesn’t have to mean stress or all-day prep. Guests only seem to notice a few key things, not whether you color-coded your bookshelf or spring cleaned your closets. Whether it’s a casual dinner party or an overnight stay, these simple steps make a big difference before guests arrive.

Here are six things you should always do before guests arrive.

Askar Abayev

Do a Quick Clutter Sweep

You don’t need to deep-clean — just focus on visible clutter. Clear off countertops, coffee tables, and entryways. Short on time? Just toss items into a basket and tuck them away in a closet.

Anna Shvets

Light a Candle Or Diffuse A Favorite Scent

Set the mood with a seasonal or favorite scent, like vanilla, amber, or something citrusy. It instantly makes your space feel warm and inviting. I like to put one in the guest bathroom too for a little surprise.

Have a little time? You can also simmer citrus and your favorite herbs on the stove.

You’ll Need:

  • Citrus slices like oranges, lemons, or limes
  • A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • 1–2 cinnamon sticks or whole cloves
  • A splash of vanilla extract

Steps:

  1. Slice your citrus thinly. Try a mix of orange and lemon for a bright, balanced scent.
  2. Fill a pot with water, about ¾ full.
  3. Add your ingredients to the water.
  4. Bring to a simmer over low heat. As the mixture warms, the scent will start to fill your space. (Keep an eye on the water level, and add more as it evaporates.)

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Prep the Bathroom

Nothing makes guests feel more "ick" than a dirty or messy bathroom so prioritize this space. Wipe down the sink and toilet, put out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s enough toilet paper.

taylor hernandez on Unsplash

Set the Mood with Music or Lighting

I make sure to switch off all the overheads (not a fan of this harsh lighting) and turn on table lamps for a cozy vibe. Then cue up a Spotify "dinner party" playlist that matches the energy — something mellow and upbeat is usually a safe bet.

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Add Thoughtful Touches

A long-distance friend of mine would always leave me a basket of toiletries for my overnight stays and it's something I always remember fondly. On their bedside table, you can leave them a pitcher of water, their favorite snacks, flowers or herbs, and/or a book or magazine. Little details make people feel instantly loved.

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Take the Garbage Out

Nothing ruins the party vibe like a smelly garbage can. Empty it before anyone arrives, and consider adding a fresh liner with a drop of essential oil or baking soda to keep things smelling fresh and clean.

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Surprise! We Could Get 'Paradise' Season 2 Sooner Than You Think

The only thing keeping me from being upset about A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show being canceled is how well Hulu handled it's newest thriller, Paradise. Created by screenwriter Dan Fogelman (This Is Us) and starring Sterling K. Brown, it's a murder mystery with dystopian undertones that explores what could happen if states become uninhabitable.

Besides feeling relevant to our current timeline, Paradise has a soundtrack that rivals Strangers Things and leaves viewers wanting more. Fortunately, Hulu got the memo and renewed it for Season 2 — thank goodness!

Here's everything to know about Paradise season 2!

Has 'Paradise' Season 2 began filming? 

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A post shared by Dan Fogelman (@danfogman)

I'm pinching myself because Paradise Season 2 has started filming! Dan Fogelman shared the amazing news on his Instagram a few days ago and his comments are buzzing with excitement! "We’re baaaaaaaack. #Paradise#S2," he wrote which means we could see Sterling K. Brown and Julianne Nichols on our screens sooner than anticipated.

This comes after an update Fogelman shared with a hopeful fan on X. In response to a fear viewers would have to wait a long time to see more action from our new favorite characters, Fogelman put all fears aside. "we start shooting in just a few weeks. It won’t be 2 years I promise! #Paradise," he said.

When does 'Paradise' season 2 premiere?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Filming just started for Paradise Season 2, so a premiere date for it hasn't been shared yet. But at the rate Fogelman's going, we could possibly see the thriller series on Hulu towards the end of the year or at the beginning of 2026!

For now, fans can rewatch Season 1 on Hulu or when it appears on ABC April 7 at 10:00 p.m. (via The Hollywood Reporter).

What is 'Paradise' about?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise begins in an idyllic community where homes are picturesque, streets are clean, and everyone lives in perfect harmony. However, it doesn't take long for the peace to be disturbed when the President is discovered murdered by his trusted Secret Service agent Xavier Collins.

Before long, he begins questioning the world he and his children live in while also searching for clues about his missing wife.

Who's in the 'Paradise' cast?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise Season 1 has a stacked cast! Besides Sterling K. Brown, there's other familiar faces who help with the show's equilibrium.

  • Sterling K. Brown as Xavier Collins
  • James Marsden as President Cal Bradford
  • Julianne Nicholson as "Sinatra"
  • Krys Marshall as Robinson
  • Sarah Shahi as Dr. Gabriela Torabi
  • Jon Beavers as Billy Pace
  • Nicole Brydon Bloom as Jane Driscoll
  • Aliyah Mastin as Presley Collins
  • Percy Daggs IV as James Collins
  • Charlie Evans as Jeremy Bradford
  • Richard Robichaux as Carl

What's happened in 'Paradise' so far?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Wow, where do I begin?!

After it was revealed that the community he and everyone else lives in has been artificially created due to a disaster, the brief moments of unease Collins shows begins making sense. It's clear he and President Cal ended on bad terms before his death, but it doesn't seem like he was responsible for murdering the man he was sworn to protect.

What's odd is that Sinatra, the mastermind behind the beautiful community they live in, has been playing puppet master. She ordered the deaths of scientists sent to the surface to test the air quality AND she made sure Agent Billy was blindsided by his love interest's manipulation. Upsettingly, his murderer is none other than seemingly docile and clueless Agent Jane.

Viewers were also introduced to President Cal's father and were able to see how much he never wanted to be the face of the country. Though his father appears to have dementia, it's clear he feels guilty about something and may have seen who killed his son.

When did the season finale of 'Paradise' season air?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Paradise left off on several cliffhangers on Hulu March 4!

How many seasons of 'Paradise' will there be?

Disney/Brian Roedel

Dan Fogelman already knows what he wants to do with Paradise! He said, "I have a plan for three seasons of the show. Without giving away too much, each season of the show is a slightly different show, within the same show with the same characters," (via The Hollywood Reporter).

For more exciting entertainment news, be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

This post has been updated.

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