In this day in age, we’re all looking for some easy ways to save a little bit of extra dough. Whether it’s buying certain things second hand or making use of hand-me-downs (trust me, I’ve been there.) On top of saving you money, it also does a bit of good reducing your carbon footprint!
So, how can you get the most bang for your buck? Up-cycling and re-purposing! It’s almost like hand-me-downs, but for your home! But where to even begin you might be wondering? Well, I’ve got 3 ideas for you to get started, and I have no doubt you’ll be finding your own things to up-cycle in no time!
Time For A Change
Wanting to spruce up the place a bit but don’t know how? Try making yourself a small work space or end table by using a tree round and attaching metal legs. (This might require knowing how to operate a saw/power tool, or at least knowing someone who knows how.)
Or better (and easier) yet! Got an old wooden ladder lying around? Can you find one at a local flea market/garage sale? Okay, now ready for the best part? Don’t do anything to it! Lean it against a wall and use it as hanging slats! Or do do something to it! Try hanging some small pots from the rungs and have an indoor garden!
Yiggity yup – It’s that’s easy! You can get as crafty (or as simplistic) as you like! You see those mirrors pictured above? Maybe add some sticks and twigs of varying lengths (that you can find outside your home) to the border for a more natural effect! The main point is to try to have fun when you’re first starting out!
Saving Space
This next one’s great if you’re in need of a little extra storage space without actually taking up too much space! Got an old chest of drawers (or end table or nightstand) that you’re ready to get rid of? Don’t just yet!
Give it a quick coat of paint (zero VOC for a non-toxic, safe finish), attach a worktop, add some casters to the bottom, and screw some hooks to the side. Voilà! You’ve got an island with storage compartments that can even wheel around! (Click here for a list of eco-friendly paints.)
Another great and easy storage hack: hang a rod with hooks under cabinets or along a blank wall for even more storage saving space! Try hanging some used tins cans that have been washed out or candle jars that have burned up for that DIY touch!
The best part about this whole thing (and I’m sure you noticed the DIY aspect coming into play again) is that it will have your special touch on everything! Every project you do won’t look like anyone else’s, even if they’re attempting the same project! It really is one-of-a-kind!
Mommas On A Mission
This wouldn’t be any kind of Momma blog if there wasn’t some kind of Momma hack for her Little’s stuff! This one is actually rather easy and can be a great way to teach your Little some engineering skills!
Got some spare fabric lying around? Turn it into a toy basket for your Littles by wrapping it around some cardboard for sturdiness and sewing together. Some simple stitching with a needle and thread should do the trick, and you can even add little handles for toting around!
Better (or easier) yet again! Got an old plastic tub with some wear and tear? No worries! Wrap it with some jute rope and add some casters (if you want) to the bottom. Boom! A stylish new toy bin for your Littles (with the option of being mobile)!
Photo from Flynnside Out Productions
Go Get ‘Em Tiger!
Honestly, the possibilities of up-cycling and re-purposing are endless! They even range from super easy to extremely complicated, so pick what feels comfortable to you!
Check out ETM’s blog about downsizing if you need some inspiration. Got any other great ideas for our Mommas? Share ’em below! You could be the person who brings value into someone’s life!
Thank you so very much for being a part of ETM’s community of Mommas! We encourage you to join discussions, interact with Mommas alike, and be unapologetically yourself! Until next time, I hope I’m able to help make your life as simple as could be. (:
With all my love, Brandolyn – Earth to Momma
