Green living is both easy on the earth and beneficial for our health. It can also be easier on the wallet as
well. When we make an effort to reuse and recycle old things into new, we save money and create one-
of-a- kind pieces. When we craft things ourselves we can often save hundreds of dollars to get the same
unique stylish look that’s found in upscale design magazines and home décor boutiques. Some of these
treasures can even be passed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms.
Here are three easy projects that recycle old materials into new:
Letterman jacket bears. If you are fortunate enough to own a letterman jacket that you’re no longer
using, or that may have shrunk over the years, consider turning it onto something else. Carefully cut it
apart and then re-craft it into a one-of- a-kind keepsake teddy bear. If you are not the crafty type, one
Missouri-based company will take your well-loved jackets and sweaters and craft them into statement pieces to save or gift to someone you love.
Image credit: Charles Sterns / Sternsky Bears
These animals give your letterman jackets new life, and let you show of your accomplishments via those coveted chenille patches, for the world to see – or at least everyone visiting your home.
Custom throw pillows. Another way to get mileage out of your patches and jackets is to create custom throw pillows for your basement, game room, or nursery. Not only are these pillows unique and special, they are a cinch to make. Simply cut apart your threads cut two identical sized circles, squares, or rectangles. Be sure to arrange the pillow so that your patch is front and center.
Image credit: Better Homes and Gardens
If you don’t want to cut apart your jacket you can still get the same look. Purchase, vintage, new, or custom chenille patches online, or from your local swap meet or flea market – you may even find someone else’s older letterman jacket to play around with.
Image credit: James Angus / The Cavender Diary
If you don’t have a jacket to cut up, you can simply sew your letters and other patches directly onto upholstery-fabric covered pillows. This project gives you a finished fun and sporty detail that adds charm to any room.
Antler tie-backs.
Another fin upcycled project with a rustic look are these handmade antler curtain tie backs from TFD Style.
Image credit: Lindsey Frankus / TDF Style
All you need are a pair of inexpensive curtain tie backs from your local home store, a pair of antlers, and a few workshop-type items like a drill, saw, vice, and glue. Once assembled and fixed in place, the tie backs add an instant homey feel to any décor. They are perfect for a living room, game room, or nursery (as seen above).
With a bit of elbow grease and a bit of creativity and ingenuity you will be crafting your garage sale and flea market finds into beautiful treasures. Here’s to green living and repurposing old into new again!
Article contributed by: Rachael Everly
