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I love finding quirky ways to give old kitchen stuff a new lease on life. Upcycling’s honestly one of those things that just makes sense—why toss something when you could turn it into something useful or even just a little charming? It’s easier on the wallet, too, and hey, it’s good for the planet.
Here are 15 upcycled kitchen crafts that’ll make you look at your old stuff differently.
I’ve pulled together ideas that don’t require fancy tools or skills—just a bit of creativity and maybe a rainy afternoon.
1. Mason jar cookie cutter toppers for candy storage
I like popping vintage cookie cutters on top of mason jars. It gives them a fun look and makes candy storage a little more interesting. Super easy, and they brighten up any shelf.
2. Upcycled wooden cutting board serving trays
I turn old cutting boards into serving trays—nothing fancy, just a bit of sanding and maybe some handles or paint if I’m feeling crafty. They’re handy for snacks or just as a rustic accent.
3. Bundt pan wall planters
Old bundt pans make perfect wall planters. I hang them up, fill them with dirt, and let the center hole help with drainage. It’s a weirdly cute way to get more greenery on the wall.
4. Old metal spoons turned into drawer pulls
I bend old metal spoons into U-shapes, flatten the bowls, and screw them onto drawers for handles. They give cabinets a laid-back, rustic vibe—plus, it’s a good excuse to keep those odd spoons around.
5. Glass cutting boards repurposed as photo frames
Glass cutting boards work surprisingly well as photo frames. I just tape a picture behind the glass and use clips to keep it in place. It’s modern, easy to wipe clean, and actually looks kind of cool.
6. Vintage cookie cutters used as gift tags
I tie vintage cookie cutters onto gifts as tags. They’re quirky and add a bit of nostalgia. Sometimes I scribble a name on a card and attach it, but honestly, the cutter does most of the work.
7. Ceramic dishes painted as decorative wall art
Painting old ceramic dishes is my go-to when I want a splash of color on the wall. The designs don’t have to be perfect—sometimes the wobbly lines look better anyway.
8. Wooden crate shelves made from old drawers
Old drawers become crate shelves in my kitchen. I stack or mount them and toss in jars, spices, whatever needs a home. They’re sturdy and add some character.
9. Coffee pot terrariums for kitchen greenery
I grab old coffee pots and fill them with plants. The glass shows off the soil and roots, and it’s just a nice way to keep something green around—plus, no need to buy a fancy terrarium.
10. Cutting boards converted into recipe boxes
I cut and hinge old cutting boards to make recipe boxes. They’re sturdy, easy to decorate, and hold all my cards without taking up much space. Not perfect, but they do the job and look homey.
11. Glass jars with chalkboard labels for pantry storage
I use glass jars with chalkboard labels for pantry storage. I can see what’s inside, and if I swap out what’s in the jar, I just wipe off the label and write something new. Keeps things fresh and organized, at least most of the time.
12. Repurposed wooden spoons as garden markers
I stick old wooden spoons in the garden as plant markers. They’re easy to write on, last a while, and I don’t feel bad if they get a bit weathered.
13. Cookie sheets as magnetic kitchen organizers
Cookie sheets make great magnetic organizers. I hang one on the wall, slap on some magnets and hooks, and suddenly I’ve got a spot for notes, spices, or stray utensils. No more digging through drawers.
14. Fondue forks used as skewers for snacks
I use old fondue forks as snack skewers. They’re sturdy, the handles are often colorful, and honestly, it’s just more fun than toothpicks.
15. Reclaimed wooden pallets turned into wine racks
Honestly, I love grabbing old wooden pallets and turning them into wine racks. There’s just something about that rustic, slightly imperfect vibe that feels right at home. You can make them hold just a few bottles or a whole bunch, whatever works for your space. Some folks hang them on the wall, others just let them stand wherever there’s room—totally up to you.
