Upcycle a Thing Project

Your child takes a small worn or unused item and gives it a new life, planning a design and carrying it through to a finished result. A satisfying make-over project with a real object at the end.

How to do it

1. Together, choose a small item to upcycle, such as an old tin, a plain box, a jam jar, or a small stool.
2. Have your child sketch a plan for how they want it to look and list the materials and steps.
3. Agree which steps the adult handles or supervises closely, such as any cutting, spray, or strong glue.
4. Let them prepare the item (clean it, remove labels) and then carry out their design, taking any drying time into account.
5. When it is finished and dry, let them show the before-and-after and say where the new item will be used.

What you need

• Item
• Decorating materials
• Glue
• Brush
• Newspaper

Make it yours

Younger, 9-10 years: Choose a simple item and stick to paper, tape, and washable paint with no cutting. Older, 12 years and up: Add measuring, a fabric or paint finish, or a small functional change such as adding a divider. Siblings: Each upcycles their own item, sharing materials, then compares the before-and-after.