One of the biggest challenges we face when moving is finding a home for our old things. Too often, these items end up in the trash because we cannot see beyond their original purpose.

Enter the environmentally friendly and creative phenomenon of “repurposing” where an old door can become a coffee table or a used dresser can be transformed into a love seat. The opportunities are limitless and the trend of repurposing is growing.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you begin your upcycling project:

• Look beyond the item’s current use and condition. Don’t let chipped paint, worn fabric or shabby state deter you.
• Define the piece’s new purpose. This can be tricky for those of us who don’t have a vision or plan. Not to worry – online resources such as HGTV and Pinterest offer a myriad of ideas and DIY instructions.
• Roll up your sleeves. You can refinish wood furniture with a sander, new paint and shellac. Wood filler is a great tool for covering up old nail holes or repairing cracks. Some reupholstering projects are also easy for the do-it-yourselfer. Benches, headboards and dining chairs can be updated with a new fabric using a staple gun. More elaborate projects such as sofas may require the work of a professional, which will likely be less expensive than buying a new sofa.

Looking for some repurposing ideas?

• Create a play kitchen from a broken entertainment center
• Turn baby lotion bottles into cell phone charging stations
• Re-cover a traditional leather sofa with a fun, graphic print for a modern look
• Turn a broken picture frame into an earring holder
• Refinish dresser drawers, line their insides with pretty paper, and mount them on the wall for bookshelves
• Mount an old door to a bedroom wall (horizontally) for a unique headboard
• Cover a dresser or buffet with a slab of remnant granite or marble for a new kitchen island

Related Links:
Repurposed Furniture and Décor: www.marthastewart.com
Create Savvy Storage: www.bhg.com
100 Ways Repurpose and Reuse Broken Household Items: www.diyncrafts.com