Upcycling art is a fun way to transform everyday objects or old artwork, breathing fresh life into them for more sustainable crafting! It’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and offers endless creative possibilities. Let's explore some groovy, beginner-friendly upcycling techniques that will inspire you to get started.

1. Turn old art into a canvas book cover

Got an old canvas that you don’t love anymore? Instead of tossing it out, turn it into a unique book cover! This is a cool way to give an old painting a new purpose while creating something entirely new and functional.

Start by carefully removing the canvas from its frame. Lay it flat and cut it to fit the size of the book you want to cover. Use glue to attach the canvas to the book's front and back covers. You can also add a coat of varnish to give it a nice finish and protect the artwork.

If you’re into texture and layers, why not try painting over parts of the canvas or adding mixed media elements like fabric or paper to ramp up the dimension? This simple canvas wrapping technique can give your old artwork a whole new life and turn a plain book into a piece of art.

2. How to upcycle jars

Glass jars are a common household item that often end up in the recycling bin, but they can be easily transformed into beautiful vases with just a bit of paint and creativity. This technique is ideal for upcycling beginners and can add a personal touch to your home decor.

To get started, simply save the pasta, pickle, or whatever jar you have from being thrown out. Give it a scrub with soap and water and allow it to dry. Grab some Ceramic Paints – they will key on better to glass than regular acrylics – and brainstorm what designs would suit your vibe. Flowers, veggies, abstract shapes, and patterns are all great places to start when it comes to glass upcycling.

Once you know what you want to paint, mix the colours and start applying the paint in a thin, even coat. You can build up opacity by adding more layers, making sure to allow the paint to dry between each coat. You can paint the entire jar or create patterns and designs – it’s up to you! For a textured look, try using a sponge or a dry brush technique.

Once the paint is dry, use a varnish or Deco Pudge to seal the design. This will help it last longer! You can use your upcycled jars as vases, pen holders, or even as candle holders. This project is not only fun but also helps reduce waste by giving glass jars a new, stylish purpose.

3. How to stencil furniture

If you have an old piece of furniture that’s looking a bit tired, use a stencil to add your own unique flair! Stencilling is a simple technique that can dramatically change the look of a piece, whether it’s a table, a chair, or a chest of drawers.

Start by cleaning and sanding the furniture to prepare the surface. Choose a stencil design that fits the style you're going for. You can make your own stencils by cutting the design into cardstock with a craft knife . Secure the stencil onto the furniture using tape, and use a foam brush or stencil brush to dab paint over the design. Be sure to use a light hand to prevent the paint from bleeding under the stencil. Once you’re done, carefully remove the stencil, let the paint dry, and apply a clear sealant like Deco Pudge to protect your design.

Stencilling is an easy way to personalise furniture and give it a new look without spending a lot of money. Plus you can repeat the design again and again with one stencil!

4. How to paint clothes

Got some old t-shirts, jeans, or jackets that are looking a bit dull? Upcycling them with fabric paint is a fun way to refresh your wardrobe and make unique, personalised clothing. Fabric painting is simple, and the results can be stunning with just a dash of creativity.

Begin by choosing the clothes you want to upcycle and washing them to remove any dirt or residue. Once dry, lay them flat and use fabric paint to create your designs. You can freehand paint directly onto the fabric or use stencils and masking tape to create patterns and shapes. Just remember to pop some cardboard between layers so the paint doesn’t bleed through. Once you’ve finished painting, allow the fabric to dry completely before popping a tea towel over it and ironing on a low heat setting. This helps the paint stay in place!

You can wash your garments inside out on a cold cycle to get more wear out of them. Upcycling clothes with fabric paint is a cool way to express your style and reduce waste by giving old clothes a fashionable update.

5. DIY plant pot using plastic bottle

Plastic bottles are one of the most common items found in the recycling bin, but they can be transformed into creative planters with a bit of paint and imagination. This upcycling technique is great for those who enjoy gardening and want to add a splash of colour to their green spaces.

Start by cutting a plastic bottle in half, using the bottom half as your planter. You can cut the bottle in a straight line or get creative with wavy or scalloped edges. Once you’ve cut the bottle, clean it thoroughly and let it dry. Use acrylic paint to decorate the outside of the bottle. You can paint it in a solid colour or add patterns like stripes, dots, abstract, or floral designs. Acrylic paint pens are also great for clean linework!

For a more textured look, use a sponge or a stippling brush. After the paint is dry, poke a few holes in the bottom for drainage, fill the bottle with soil, and plant your favourite flowers or herbs. These decorative planters are perfect for a windowsill or balcony garden and help reduce plastic waste in a fun, creative way!

6. Photo frame design with cardboard

Cardboard is an incredibly versatile material that often gets thrown away. Instead of tossing it out, why not turn it into custom picture frames? This simple project is great for displaying your favourite photos or small pieces of artwork, adding a handmade touch to your home.

To make a picture frame, start by cutting out two identical pieces of cardboard in the shape and size you want your frame to be. One piece will serve as the backing, while the other will be the frame itself. Cut a window out of the second piece to create the frame. Use acrylic paint, markers, or coloured paper to decorate the frame. You can keep it simple with a solid colour or get creative with patterns, drawings, and collage elements.

Once the design is dry, glue your photo or artwork to the backing piece, then glue the frame piece on top. If you want to hang your frame, attach a piece of string or a ribbon to the back. Cardboard frames are a fun and inexpensive way to showcase your fave memories and creations!

Upcycling art is a fun and creative way to give old items a new life, reduce waste, and get in touch with your inner artist. The best part? You don’t need to be a pro to get started! With a bit of imagination and a few basic supplies, anyone can try these upcycling techniques and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something new from something old. So, gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and start upcycling today!

If you feel inspired to create something, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with! Check out our tips and techniques page for loads more ideas and inspo.

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