Yesterday was the second ever #nationalupcyclingday. Lots of fabulous upcycled items were shared on Twitter. Personally I love how the uk has a day to celebrate everything. Upcycled… But what is upcycling?
The dictionary definition is “Reuse (discarded objects or material) in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original“
Three/four years back when I first started my creative journey and my forage into blogging many of my friends had never heard of upcycling. A few years on the profile has changed, part in thanks to television. Shows such as Fill your House for Free, Great Interior Design Challenge, Money for Nothing, Shed of the Year regularly show case upcycled items and upcyclers.
upcycled clock made by @trongupcycling
What does upcycling mean to me? It means reducing landfill, playing with materials you have to create something different, it means you don’t have to be middle class to be able to afford exploring your creativity, having a go, having fun, respecting our environment by using what we have.
Yesterday I happened to enjoy a rare day out in London with my brother so was able to pop in to the gumtree #upcyclerevolution bus.
The bus is going on tour as of today with Max McMurdo encouraging you to have a go at upcycling projects (contact @gumtree via twitter to find out the locations and times). On the bus you can see coat hangers into lampshades.
You can create your own light with a piece of ply board.
Not able to make the tour? Fancy regular inspiration? Join in #upcycledhour chat on Twitter on a Tuesday evening 8-9pm (GMT). This is a friendly community of inspiring upcyclers.
Alternatively why not check out local courses. Learn a new skill and see where the journey takes you:) Don’t be afraid – have a go!!!
