Repurposing

Since we can't always get exactly what we want or need, I believe in being creative and using things you can find around the house to solve little daily problems. Who says each item can only be used for whatever it was designed?

Here are some ways you can repurpose items:

Old Doors – Turn an old door into a coffee table. Sand it down, paint or stain it, and add spindles or other wooden structure for legs.

Old door repurposed as a coffee table
Photo courtesy of Jusben/Morguefile.com

Old Wooden Ladder – Turn it to a vertical position, hang it on the wall, and use it as a bookshelf or knickknack rack.

Chipped Coffee Cups and Glasses – Don't toss a cup or glass into the trash just because it has a small chip. Use it to display cut flowers. If you turn it around so the chip is facing the wall, no one has to know it isn't perfect.

Dish Rack – Use your old dish rack to store your file folders upright.

Squirt Bottles – After you finish using the last of the ketchup, wash out the bottle and use it for something else you can squirt, like pancake batter.

Cork Board – Add some push pins or decorative thumbtacks and use it as a jewelry display. You'll be able to keep your necklaces from tangling, and they'll be lined up, making it easier to find the perfect piece for each outfit.

Old Rake – Another idea for displaying your accessories is to cut off the handle of a rake, hang the tine section on your wall, and use it for your necklaces or scarves.

Old Socks – Turn any sock into a puppet by adding felt eyes, nose, and ears. You can also fill them with lint from the dryer and turn them into stuffed animals or holiday decorations. 

Turn an old white sock into
a holiday decoration.
Photo courtesy of LadyHeart/Morguefile.com

Paper Coffee Filters – Use them to separate your dishes or nonstick cookware.

Egg Cartons – You can use empty egg cartons for a variety of things around the house. When your child wants to paint, dribble a little bit into each section to prevent the colors from running together. You can use them for beading or anything else with small pieces.

Last Year's Lunch Box – Your child might want a new lunch box every year, but that's not a good reason to toss the old one. Use it for other things, such as a carrying case for electronics accessories, place to store receipts or manuals, or a first aid kit. Don't forget to label it before putting it away.