Turn something old into something new

Student budgets can be tight, and sustainability isn't always a top priority when decorating your space. However, upcycling is an easy way to save some pennies while reducing waste.

Here are three of our favourite ways to give your old everyday items a new lease of life! 

1. Turn your glass jar into storage and décor 🫙

Got some empty pasta sauce, jam, or coffee jars? Before you throw them away, why not turn them into...

• Pen and makeup brush holders: wash out your old jars and use them to store stationary or makeup brushes on your desk. You can decorate them with washi tape, paint, or even fairy lights inside for a cosy glow. 
• Fairy light lanterns: pop some battery-powered fairy lights into a jar for the perfect night or reading light. 
• DIY vases: looking for a new kitchen table or bedroom accessory? Fill your empty jar half way with water and add some flowers from the local market.
• Storage: whether you need to store your dry pasta, cereals, or spices, instead of buying more storage - which can usually be expensive - use what you've got. 

Top tip: If you're struggling to remove stubborn labels, soak the jars in warm soapy water and use a bit of olive oil to rub off the sticky residue. 

2. Turn old clothes into new homeware 👕

Thinking of clearing out your wardrobe? Before you toss out that old T-shirt or pair of jeans, think about how you can use them in your room. 

• DIY cushion covers: got an old hoodie you love but don't wear anymore? Cut it to size, sew (or glue) the edges, and stuff it with filling or an old pillow to create a personalised cushion. 
• Fabric bunting: cut up old clothes into triangles and string them together to make bunting for your room. Or, stretch an interesting fabric print over a canvas frame or cardboard for an easy art piece. 
• Tote bags: all made from T-shirts, no sewing required! Simply cut off the sleeves of an old T-shirt, widen the neck hole, and knot the bottom for a quick and easy tote bag perfect for shopping or carrying books to class. 

3. Turn tin cans into functional accessories 🥫

Finished your tin of soup? Give it a wash and transform it into something useful like:

• Desk organiser: remove the labels, give the outside a coat of paint or wrap it in fabric, and use them to store pens, cutlery or even toiletries and jewellery. 
• DIY plant pots: small succulents, plants and herbs look great in repurposed tins. Wash out your tin, decorate however you like (see the video below for some inspo), poke some holes in the bottom using a bottle opener, then add your soil and plant - you've got a stylish, eco-friendly plant pot! 

Upcycling can be easy, and is good for the planet and your pocket. So before you bin that jar, T-shirt or tin can, think about how you can turn it into something new.