Upcycle, Repurpose, Reuse: Add charm to home and help the planet!

Upcycling, repurposing, and reusing are fundamental principles that were instilled in me early in life. My mother, often told me "do the best with what you've got where you're at."

My dad was a MacGyver long before there was a show to captivate the imagination about how to multipurpose something to meet a need!

So I view those words through the lens of resourcefulness not so much as discipline for a worthy cause. They are critical elements for the intentional practice of making the most out of what you have, wherever you may be.

When I got married and the nation was grappling with a recession, repurposing was more than just an eco-friendly choice—it was a practical necessity. I had a great example of how to get by with less in my mother-in-law, Myrt, who grew up during the Great Depression. She washed Solo cups, kept every Cool Whip and butter container for future use, and replaced nothing before it's fullest potential was realized and spent.

With her help we learned to make the most of everything, but in addition to embracing stewardship, we had determination to create a beautiful life of our own, regardless of our income. Our expectations fueled a passion for seeing potential in just about anything.

Upcycling, repurposing, and reusing not only helps the planet, and your wallet, but also makes for excellent design choices by tapping your creativity and calling on your inner MacGyver! Here is some inspiration to get you started.

Repurposed Home Decor

Necessity is the mother of invention they say, and as repurposing goes I agree. Often times it is having the need for something that sparks your imagination and allows your mind to consider things beyond the norm. This collection of tiny little mice characters finds a new home that seems as though it were made for them in an antique print box.

Upcycled Furniture

Reused Containers