Let's face it, we are all guilty of throwing out more stuff than we should. Even if we diligently recycle our containers and throw our food scraps into the compost, there is always more that we can do. While there is no one way to go about cutting down on our waste contribution, making the most out of the items we already have is key. All too often we throw out our belongings when they could still be used. Perhaps we no longer like the colour of our formerly favorite love seat. Or maybe our jeans are a little too frayed and holey to be considered stylish. Whatever the perceived flaw might be, more often than not, we can breathe new life into those items we are no longer crazy about. Be mindful and take some time to think before you toss something out. Is it really trash or is it treasure waiting to be found? With these five tips on freshening up old items, we'll bet as time goes on that you find yourself leaning more and more towards the latter.
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1. Add a coat of paint
A little bit of paint can work miracles and it is often all you need to transform an object from meh to mesmerizing. Whether it is an item of clothing or a piece of furniture, sometimes a simple change of colour will make the item seem entirely brand new. It's also a great way to make use of cans and jars that you may have laying in the recycling bin. Sure you can just take them to the depot, but where's the fun in that? Instead, add a little paint and transform them into pretty vases, pen cases, candle holders, and centerpieces!
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2. Snip snip
This may seem a bit obvious, but often all you need to fix an object is a few snips here and there. Whether you are slashing your jeans and turning them into cut-offs or adding fringe to your curtains, never underestimate the power of your trusty scissors!
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3. Patch it up
No matter how well made a product is, eventually it's going to start to show some wear and tear. When the inevitable day comes and your favorite jacket has a tear or a giant snag appears on your satin blouse, don't immediately throw in the towel and toss it out! Ready-made patches can be used to repair almost any hole or tear, and you can also make your own with any leftover fabric scraps you may have in your arsenal! Plus patchwork is a big trend right now and lends a rustically chic vibe to clothing and home decor.
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4. Embellish it
No longer like what you see? Add a little beading, lace, or embroidery. Whether you feel like creating a subtle or dramatic effect, you can completely transform the look of an object with a few well-placed details. Don't be afraid to step outside the box too! For example, if you are no longer in love with your dresser, line your drawers with wallpaper and glue paper flowers and foliage to the exterior. A few simple details and suddenly it's like new!
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5. Transform it into something else entirely
Sometimes it's best to just take that tired object apart and turn it into something new. Once you've disassembled something into a raw material, suddenly the options are endless in terms of what you can make! For example, you could take apart that old sweater and turn it into a tea cozy, purse, or stitch it with some other sweaters and create the coziest of blankets! You could glue legs onto the bottom of your old trunk to turn it into a kitschy table! If all else fails or you simply don't want to use the item in its original form, turn it into something entirely different.
We can do so many little things to protect the environment and recycling our old items is just one way that we can make our impact more positive. And let's face it - we're makers! We love a creative challenge. Happy up-cycling!
Do you have any thoughts, questions or feedback? We would love to hear from you! Chat with us in the comment section or send us a message at sales@njeffersonltd.com.
