Upcycled Home Design Ideas.

Transforming your house into a masterpiece of design using paper crafts, old plastic, and other repurposed materials can be both an environmentally friendly and creatively satisfying endeavor. This approach not only helps reduce waste but also allows you to express your personal style in unique and innovative ways. Below, we’ll explore various projects and ideas that can turn your home into a stunning showcase of upcycled art and clever design.

### 1. **Wall Art and Decorations**

**Paper Craft Wall Art**: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to start is by creating wall art with paper. You can make intricate paper cutouts, origami installations, or framed paper collages. For example, create a large tree using brown craft paper for the trunk and branches, and colorful origami birds to adorn the branches. This not only adds a touch of nature indoors but also serves as a conversation piece.

**Plastic Bottle Flowers**: Old plastic bottles can be transformed into beautiful floral decorations. Cut the bottles into petal shapes, paint them, and then assemble them into flowers. These can be mounted on walls or used as centerpieces. The plastic’s flexibility allows for a variety of shapes and sizes, giving you endless possibilities for customization.

**Paper Mache Sculptures**: Use paper mache to create sculptures that can be displayed around the house. Whether it’s abstract art, animal figures, or decorative masks, paper mache offers a versatile medium for crafting durable and lightweight art pieces.

### 2. **Furniture and Functional Pieces**

**Upcycled Plastic Furniture**: Old plastic items, such as crates, can be repurposed into functional furniture. Stack and secure plastic crates to create shelves, or cut and assemble them into unique stools or side tables. A coat of paint can unify the look and add a modern touch to the pieces.

**Cardboard Furniture**: Sturdy cardboard can be transformed into surprisingly durable furniture. Create a chic coffee table or a set of shelves by cutting and layering cardboard pieces. Reinforce the structure with glue and add a waterproof finish to ensure longevity.

**Bottle Cap Tabletops**: Collect bottle caps and arrange them in a mosaic pattern to create vibrant tabletops. Secure the caps with a strong adhesive and cover the surface with a layer of clear resin for a smooth, durable finish. This project is perfect for small side tables or even kitchen countertops.

### 3. **Storage Solutions**

**Paper Tube Organizers**: Empty paper towel and toilet paper rolls can be used to create organizers for drawers, desks, or even wall-mounted storage. Cover the tubes with decorative paper and bind them together to form compartments. These are great for sorting small items like pens, craft supplies, or makeup.

**Plastic Container Storage**: Repurpose old plastic containers as storage bins. Decorate them with paint or adhesive paper to match your home decor. These containers can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or office to keep things tidy and accessible.

**Magazine Racks from Cardboard**: Create stylish magazine racks using cardboard. Cut the cardboard into desired shapes and sizes, then assemble and decorate them. These racks can be wall-mounted or placed on the floor to keep your reading materials organized and within reach.

### 4. **Lighting**

**Plastic Bottle Chandeliers**: Transform plastic bottles into a stunning chandelier. Cut the bottles into decorative shapes, such as flowers or leaves, and arrange them around a light source. The plastic diffuses the light beautifully, creating an enchanting atmosphere in any room.

**Paper Lanterns**: Craft paper lanterns in various shapes and sizes to add a warm, cozy glow to your home. You can use colored or patterned paper to match your decor, and even embellish them with cut-out designs or paint.

**Bottle Cap Lampshades**: Create unique lampshades using bottle caps. String the caps together and form them around a frame. The resulting lampshade will cast interesting shadows and add a touch of whimsy to your lighting.

### 5. **Garden and Outdoor Decor**

**Plastic Bottle Planters**: Cut plastic bottles in half and use them as planters for small herbs or flowers. You can hang these planters from a fence or wall to create a vertical garden. Painting the bottles in bright colors can add a cheerful touch to your outdoor space.

**Paper Wind Chimes**: Make wind chimes using old paper and plastic materials. Cut the paper into various shapes, decorate them, and string them together with beads and plastic pieces. Hang them where they can catch the wind and create soothing sounds.

**Recycled Bird Feeders**: Turn old plastic containers into bird feeders. Cut openings in the sides of the containers, fill them with birdseed, and hang them in your garden. These feeders not only attract birds but also add a decorative element to your outdoor area.

### 6. **Textiles and Soft Furnishings**

**Plastic Bag Rugs**: Weave old plastic bags into durable, weather-resistant rugs. Cut the bags into strips and braid or crochet them into patterns. These rugs are perfect for use in entryways or outdoor areas.

**Paper Bead Curtains**: Create a beaded curtain using paper beads. Roll strips of colorful paper into beads, string them together, and hang them in doorways or windows. The curtains add a playful, artistic touch while providing a bit of privacy.

**Cushions from Old Fabrics**: Use fabric scraps or old clothing to sew unique cushion covers. Mix and match different fabrics for a patchwork effect, or create themed designs to match specific rooms.

### 7. **Seasonal Decorations**

**Holiday Ornaments**: Craft holiday decorations using paper and plastic. Create paper snowflakes, plastic wreaths, or even upcycled gift wrap from old magazines. These decorations can be reused each year, reducing the need for new materials.

**Seasonal Wreaths**: Make wreaths for different seasons using repurposed materials. For example, a spring wreath can be made from paper flowers and plastic leaves, while an autumn wreath might use cardboard cutouts and dried leaves.

**Festive Garlands**: String together paper shapes, such as hearts for Valentine's Day or stars for the Fourth of July, to create festive garlands. These can be hung across mantels, windows, or doorways to add a celebratory touch to your home.

### Conclusion

By integrating paper crafts, old plastic, and other recycled materials into your home design, you not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also create a living space that is uniquely yours. The projects outlined above demonstrate that with a little creativity and effort, you can transform everyday items into beautiful and functional home decor. Whether you are an experienced crafter or a novice, these ideas offer a starting point for making your house a masterpiece of upcycled design. Embrace the challenge, and enjoy the process of turning trash into treasure.