Repurposing Items into Small Home Décor
Before you toss that empty glass jar or old wooden ladder, take a moment to see its hidden potential. Many everyday items destined for the trash can be transformed into stunning and unique pieces of home décor. Repurposing is not only a fantastic way to save money and reduce waste, but it also allows you to infuse your home with personality and creativity. This is especially true for small spaces, where every decorative item needs to be both beautiful and functional.
This guide is filled with creative ideas for repurposing common items into stylish décor perfect for your small home. These budget-friendly home projects are simple, fun, and a great way to add a personal touch to your apartment or house. Let’s dive into some easy DIY small space ideas that will make you see your old belongings in a whole new light.
Glass Jars and Bottles: From Pantry to Pretty
Empty jam jars, pickle jars, and glass bottles are items we all have. Instead of recycling them, give them a glamorous second life. Their versatility makes them a perfect canvas for countless repurposed home décor projects.
Mini Vases and Planters
The simplest way to repurpose a glass jar is to use it as a vase for fresh flowers or a single beautiful stem. For a more permanent touch of green, turn them into planters for small succulents or herbs.
- How to do it: Thoroughly clean the jar and remove any labels. You can leave it clear for a minimalist look or paint it to match your décor. For a rustic feel, wrap twine or burlap around the middle. Fill with a bit of soil and your favorite small plant.
Chic Candle Holders
Glass jars and bottles create a beautiful, soft glow when used as candle holders. They are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere on a shelf, table, or windowsill.
- How to do it: Place a tea light or a small votive candle inside a clean jar. For a beachy vibe, fill the bottom third of the jar with sand before adding the candle. You can also paint the outside with translucent glass paint for a colorful effect.
Old Ladders: Climbing to New Decorative Heights
An old wooden ladder, whether it’s a stepladder or a straight one, can become a standout feature in any room. They are fantastic for adding vertical interest, which helps make a small space feel taller and less cluttered.
The Leaning Bookshelf
A straight ladder leaned against a wall becomes an instant, stylish bookshelf. It has a smaller footprint than a traditional bookcase and adds a ton of rustic character.
- How to do it: Find a sturdy wooden ladder. Clean it up and either leave its weathered finish for a rustic look or give it a fresh coat of paint for a more modern feel. Lean it securely against a wall and arrange books, small plants, and decorative objects on the rungs.
Hanging Pot and Pan Rack
In a small kitchen, cabinet space is precious. Free some up by using a small, old ladder as a hanging rack for pots and pans.
- How to do it: Suspend a short, straight ladder horizontally from the ceiling using sturdy chains and hooks. Add S-hooks to the rungs, and you have an instant, farmhouse-style pot rack.
Tin Cans: From Canned Goods to Great Goods
Don’t underestimate the humble tin can. Once cleaned and prepped, these metal cylinders are incredibly useful for organization and décor. This is one of the most accessible repurposed home décor ideas out there.
Desk and Craft Organizers
Tame the clutter on your desk or craft table with a set of decorated tin cans. They are the perfect size for holding pens, pencils, scissors, and paintbrushes.
- How to do it: Clean the cans thoroughly and make sure there are no sharp edges. You can spray paint them in metallic or matte colors, cover them with decorative paper, or wrap them in fabric. Group a few together for a coordinated look.
Herb Garden Planters
Tin cans make excellent small planters for a kitchen herb garden. They are just the right size for a windowsill and add an industrial-chic touch.
- How to do it: Clean the can and poke a few drainage holes in the bottom with a nail and hammer. Paint and label them for each herb (e.g., “Basil,” “Mint,” “Parsley”), then fill with soil and plant your seeds or seedlings.
Old Picture Frames: A New View on Décor
A thrift store is a goldmine for old, ornate picture frames. Look past the dated artwork inside and focus on the frame’s potential. With a little paint and imagination, they can become unique home accents.
A Stylish Serving Tray
A large, sturdy picture frame can be transformed into an elegant serving tray, perfect for displaying on a coffee table or ottoman.
- How to do it: Remove the glass and backing from the frame. Cut a thin piece of plywood to fit snugly inside the frame’s opening and secure it. Paint the entire piece in a single color. You can add a decorative paper or fabric to the base before sealing it with a clear coat. For extra flair, add small cabinet handles to the short sides.
Unique Jewelry Organizer
Turn an empty frame into a beautiful and functional place to hang your necklaces and earrings, preventing them from becoming a tangled mess.
- How to do it: Remove the backing and glass. Stretch a piece of lace, mesh, or chicken wire across the back of the frame, securing it tightly with a staple gun. You can also screw small hooks along the inside edges. Hang it on your wall for an instant art piece that keeps your jewelry organized.
Repurposing items is a journey of creativity. It challenges you to see the beauty and utility in things you might otherwise overlook. By turning old jars, ladders, cans, and frames into new treasures, you not only create a home that is uniquely yours but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Start with one of these DIY small space ideas this weekend and see how easy it is to make something old new again.
