Don't you just love that feeling when you get together with your friends to share an activity that you all enjoy? Today is our Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time where I share with you my latest upcycling fun. For my project, I've chosen to show you how to take upcycled belts and turn them into home decor. Upcycled Belts Before | prodigalpieces.com Maybe that piques your attention and maybe you also think, "no way." haha. Either way, let's have some crafty fun! I've written all the steps out for you here, but also provide a video tutorial below for your viewing pleasure too.

THRIFTY FUN

I don't know about you, but when I head to the thrift store, I don't just shop for myself. Being a mama to 6 and needing items for my family of 8, we also look in each section as the needs arise. It is no surprise that when I head to the ladies section there is always a bounty of shoes, purses, scarves, and belts. Accessories for the win! Thrift Store Belt Section | prodigalpieces.com So I began to ponder that an assumption could be made that often times maybe an overabundance of belts deems them trash-worthy. That would be sad, wouldn't it? It was then I said to my crafty ol' self that it was time to whip up something to make use of this plentiful stash. And I know I'm not the only one who has kids that outgrow their belts, or even have damaged belts myself, right?

TIME TO FIND A MATCH

Right after that I took a spin around the rest of the thrift store. My eyes feasted on this virtual goldmine. Thrift Store Glassware Section as shown by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com GLASS. Oodles of it! I've mentioned before how many will overlook this section (probably because it looks like under a typical kitchen sink...pffft). However, there is fun potential. In older project posts, I've shown how I've made use of it HERE - take a peek to see. I took a quick scan of the assortment as I approached. My eyes fell adoringly onto a box of canning jars on the floor. The adorable half pint jars are what caught my fancy first. Then, I loved the square shape of the larger ones. This sealed the deal that this would be my subject for my upcycled belts project. Atlas Canning Jars Before Upcycle into Home Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces

LETS GET THE FUN STARTED

TERMS OF USE: when you create these upcycled belt projects you agree to the following: it cannot be shared or distributed for monetary gain in any way, it may not be modified in any way, and you may not claim the work as your own.

To get my upcycled belts projects started, I picked out a few that were either made of leather or rope (both are my preferred style for the first project). Or have a fun color combo (for my second project). For my first demonstration, I chose to use the leather and rope versions. This one in particular had damage and would be perfect for what I had in mind. Damaged Belt for Upcycled Farmhouse Decor | prodigalpieces.com

DIY TIME

As I demonstrate in the video, I wrap the belt around the threaded top of the jar to size it to fit tight. Then, I cut off the excess belt. Because I want the belt to be snug, I mark where the buckle pin would need to go through. Mark the spot, and then either use an awl or a tool like this Crop-A-Dile to make new holes. I just love this handy thing! Using the Crop-O-Dile to Make Holes in Leather | prodigalpieces.com Now that my mini belt is ready to go, I buckle it around my jar. I use the remnant piece of belt to create a handle and cut it to length. Adding Upcycled Belt Handle to Farmhouse Candle Jar | prodigalpieces.com To mark where to attach it to the mini belt, then remove it from the jar and hand-stitch the handle on. I used upholstery thread, but you could also use embroidery floss, yarn, jute, etc. note: you could also use the belt excess to go around the bottom of the jar to create a holder if you want a more stable hanging sort of jar. Stitching Leather Belt Handle to Votive Candle Jar | prodigalpieces.com Next, I use my hot glue gun and glue stick to put a heavy bead around the threaded top of the canning jar and put my leather holder on it it. Again, the video shows this best.

FIRST PROJECT REVEAL

Now my first upcycled belts project is finished. woot! I'm happy to say that it came out as I'd planned and even cuter than I hoped. Upcycled Belts into DIY Farmhouse Decor with Votive Candle Canning Jar by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | video tutorial at prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy home farmhouse homedecor fashion DIY Jar Candle Holders for Farmhouse Decor with Upcycled Belts by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy farmhouse home homedecor Aren't they fun? I can't decide if I like the solid leather, the rope leather, or the rope belts best. I say they look awesome paired together. Upcycled Farmhouse Canning Jar Candle Holders with Upcycled Belts by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy farmhouse homedecor home Leather Belt Upcycled Canning Jar Candle Holders by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy home farmhouse homedecor Leather Belt & Rope Canning Jar Candle Holders by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces farmhouse homedecor diy crafts home

TIME FOR PROJECT 2

For this next DIY upcycled jar project I am using 3 of the pint-sized jars. I placed a large bead of E6000 adhesive glue between them, then held in place with rubber bands overnight. Glued & Banded Atlas Canning Jars | prodigalpieces.com Then, once the glue has cured, I clean them up with a bit of rubbing alcohol. This will remove any residue or grime and promote adhesion of the paint I'm about to use.

TIME FOR PAINT

Cleaning Canning Jars with Rubbing Alcohol | prodigalpieces.com Next, I used my paint brush to apply 2 coats of a white paint, letting cure in between. You could use any color you like, of course, but my goal was to stick to a color that would showcase my belts. Painting Upcycled Canning Jars | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces Last, I simply wrap my selection of belts that I shortened around the jars in a fun design. Notice the patterned one I used my Crop-O-Dile to add grommets just like the original belt had. I repeat... I love that tool! DIY Farmhouse Decor from Thrifted Finds by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | Video Tutorial at prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces farmhouse diy homedecor crafts home Industrial Farmhouse Style Decor Handmade by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces home farmhouse homedecor diy Upcycled Belts for Home Decor Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

SO MUCH FUN

This was such fun with this, can you tell? Not only does that old garage box I pulled out of the trash, but also the paper towel holder make for great twine storage. Plus, the feed sacks I purchase for a dollar at a local flea market, and the license plate belonged to my husband's namesake, his great-grandfather. Furthermore, there's no need to break the budget on decorating, right? Rustic Chic DIY Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces Using Upcycled Belts | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces farmhouse diy home homedecor Painted Canning Jars Upcycled into Farmhouse Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces farmhouse rustic home homedecor Additionally, I hope you are inspired to grab your in-house supplies and create your home decor. It is so enjoyable for me to share and also hear feedback from you. So...I have to ask...which project is your favorite? Farmhouse Style Canning Jar Candle Holders Made from Upcycled Belts by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy home farmhouse homedecor Industrial Farmhouse DIY Decor Using Upcycled Belts Thrifted Items by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces farmhouse homedecor diy For me, I love them both for different reasons. And I think I'm slightly smitten with all things belts. hee hee. You might have to fight me for the leather ones at the thrift store.

SHARE

I invite you to pin and share my upcycled belt creations to inspire others to reduce the waste footprint on our society and create beautiful decor for their home. It's fun! Got a stash of old belts? Join Larissa of Prodigal Pieces as she creates farmhouse style decor with upcycled belts and thrift store finds | Video tutorial at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces diy farmhouse home homedecor fashion Stop by to see what's new in my onlin store.

Shop Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces

Up next, this vintage serving cart is about to get a retro vibe. See the new look HERE! Cosco Bar Cart Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time! blog signature Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION series hosted by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | Come learn to create for you and your home | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces

What is more, here are other projects like my DIY Upcycled Belts refashion:

Check this out...DIY Insulated Lunch Bags created from two linen skirts | Come join the refashion fun at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces handmade diy sewing fashion homeHandmade Feedsack, Linen, and Leather Purse by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com prodigalpieces    



Marie

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 11:43:51

Super cute idea, Larissa! Dang, I just donated a bunch of old belts and I have a box of canning jars in the basement. Regretting that donation now.

Larissa

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 12:22:04

Thanks! Isn't that always how it works. :D

Mary

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 12:53:31

Very unique idea for reusing the belts. I would like to see you use those belts on a purse or bag, especially around the bottom where the bag always seems to show wear. It would probably enhance a printed canvas or carpet bag by using a faux leopard/crocodile/snake print belt and really help save the bag. Also, if you ever want to do a tutorial, could you do one with pop-rivits? Those things are so useful but I just can't get a good feel for how they work. Thanks

Kaycee

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 13:44:17

Hi Larissa, This is an awesome idea for upcyling old or unused belts! Being from New England, I already have a love of braided leather and rope belts! So your project is the perfect extension of the nautical vibe for my summertime decor! I love them all!

Larissa

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 14:11:44

Hi Kaycee! Thanks so much for the smile. Yes, I just love those braided ones for many reasons :D

Larissa

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 14:12:26

That sounds like a great idea. I usually just add leather to mine or canvas to reinforce the bottom.

Ginny

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 14:12:36

Great ideas, Larissa! I can’t wait to see what you do with the cart, as I have one sitting in my basement as I speak !

Helen Boltin

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 18:53:33

Those are really cute. I wanted to let you know that if you have a Bargain Hunt store in your area it is also a great place to find belts cheap. I recently bought several genuine leather belts for .35 each. They had great brass buckles on them too that I can use for projects as well. I cut one up to replace the handles that were tearing off of one of my wicker laundry baskets. It turned out great. They are good for lots of projects. Their belts are usually about $1 each but these were on clearance.

Larissa

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 21:03:58

Sounds like fun! :D

Larissa

Shared publicly - 2019-06-25 21:04:25

Thanks for the tip! :) We don't have those, but I'm sure many will love to hear the advice.

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