Ever wanted that rustic, worn-out look for home items and decor? Or have you always wondered how to repurpose compression springs and other wire materials lying around in your home?
We get it, they can be a nuisance when they’re lying around, and they all end up in a jar in your garage somewhere; so why not upcycle them and turn them into useful, crafty items at home you can use for decorating?
You’ll be surprised at how versatile these pieces are and how many ways you can use them. This is a treat for you do-it-yourselfers out there.
Decorating Indoors
Did you know that compression springs and similar wires are great for indoor decorating? You can turn them into candle holders, magazine and book organizers, or deconstructed picture frames.
If you’re going for a rustic, industrial look, take at least two sturdy compression springs (or you can shape flat wire into a coil) and create a pair of candleholders for your fireplace mantel. Pro tip: insert some faux (or real, if you prefer) greenery in between the springs if you want to decorate it for Christmas. You can also wire through some flowers to give it an extra touch of chic.
For book organizers or picture frames, take a flat wooden board and attach the springs according to your liking. Adjust the distance between each coil to make it more sturdy.
Create a Warm Welcome
Who says wreaths are only for Christmas? If you’re looking to spruce up your doorway, you can create a nice, architectural-inspired wreath using different types of springs. The beauty of this is that it doesn’t have to be perfect and you can easily hang it on your front door. You can choose to hang it bare on its own or intertwine seasonal elements depending on what time of the year it is.
Some options? Wire through some faux florals for spring and summer, create paper mache pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns for Halloween and glue some autumn leaves for fall. The possibilities are endless for this uber budget-friendly decorating option.
Sprucing up your Outdoors
If your front porch or backyard needs a bit more pizazz, old springs can be used as pot holders to give your plants some level and depth. Make use of various sizes to make it more interesting and to add a bit of rustic charm. You can place them all together in one corner or line them up on your porch stairway for a unique touch.
Party Favors
Are you the type who loves to host parties? If you nodded your head while reading this, then you’ll love these ideas. Serve up some popcorn (or fries!) using a wire basket with compression springs inside. Space the springs out evenly to make sure the inside is sturdy enough to handle the food. Simply roll clean sheets/paper to serve as the popcorn holders, and voila! You have a budget-friendly and unique popcorn and fry caddy in one. Get ready to serve them up in style.
Hosting a reunion with your friends? If you have an unused bed spring mattress lying around, prop them up against a wall/tree, and use the spaces to post various photos of your memories through the years. Invite your guests to write their future goals on post-its and clip them onto the spring mattress. Not only does it serve as an interesting greeting for when your guests arrive, but it can also give your friends a chance to do something else while mingling.
Who says unique decor always has to come with a hefty price tag? Get started with gathering those compression springs, wires, and other unused pieces lying around at home and come up with something unique for both indoors and out.