Transforming your living room into a stylish and unique space doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, some of the most creative and personalized wall art can be made from materials you already have around your home. Recycled materials offer a sustainable, cost-effective way to create stunning decor that reflects your personality while contributing to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
In this article, we’re going to explore various ideas for creating DIY living room wall art using recycled materials. I’ll share some of my own experiences, offer tips and ask for your thoughts as we go along. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, these ideas will inspire you to get creative and make something truly special for your home.
1. Bottle Cap Mosaics: Turning Trash into Treasure
Who would have thought that the humble bottle cap could become a piece of art? Bottle cap mosaics are a fun and colorful way to repurpose these small, often overlooked items. The possibilities are endless, whether you want to create a simple pattern or an intricate design.
What You’ll Need: A collection of bottle caps in various colors, a wooden board or canvas, strong adhesive and a bit of patience.
How to Make It:
- Collect Bottle Caps: Start by gathering bottle caps. You can collect them over time, ask friends and family to save them or even visit local bars or restaurants.
- Design Your Mosaic: Before gluing anything down, lay out your bottle caps to create your design. Whether it’s a simple geometric pattern or a detailed picture, take your time to plan.
- Assemble Your Art: Once you’re satisfied with your layout, begin gluing the bottle caps onto the board or canvas. Let the glue dry completely before hanging your artwork.
I’ve made a bottle cap mosaic before and it was a blast! I chose to create a wave pattern using different shades of blue and the result was both striking and unique. What about you? What design would you create with your bottle caps? A favorite quote, a silhouette or perhaps a simple abstract design? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on bottle caps, check online marketplaces or ask local businesses for help. Many places are happy to donate them, especially if they know it’s for a creative project!
2. Upcycled Cardboard Art: From Waste to Wall Worthy
Cardboard is often seen as disposable, but with a bit of creativity, it can be transformed into stunning wall art. The versatility of cardboard makes it an excellent medium for DIY projects, allowing you to create anything from simple shapes to detailed designs.
What You’ll Need: Cardboard (from boxes, packaging, etc.), a utility knife, paint or markers and glue.
How to Make It:
- Design Your Artwork: Start by sketching your design on the cardboard. You could go for something abstract or perhaps a more detailed scene like a city skyline or floral arrangement.
- Cut and Shape: Carefully cut out your design using a utility knife. Be mindful of the edges—smooth them out with sandpaper if necessary.
- Paint or Decorate: Once your pieces are cut, you can paint or color them as desired. You can also leave the cardboard natural for a rustic look.
- Assemble and Mount: Arrange your pieces on the wall or mount them on a canvas or board. Glue them in place once you’re happy with the layout.
I once created a cardboard tree for my living room wall and it added a lovely, earthy feel to the space. I left the cardboard in its natural color and added real twigs and leaves for a touch of realism. It was a fun, low-cost project that brought a bit of the outdoors inside. What kind of design would you make with cardboard? Maybe a series of abstract shapes or perhaps a silhouette of your favorite city?
Pro Tip: For a 3D effect, layer different pieces of cardboard. This adds depth and makes your artwork more dynamic.
3. Repurposed Wood: Rustic Charm with a Story
Wood is a timeless material that adds warmth and character to any space. Repurposing wood from old furniture, pallets or other sources not only gives new life to otherwise discarded materials but also adds a rustic, charming touch to your living room.
What You’ll Need: Reclaimed wood (from pallets, old furniture, etc.), sandpaper, paint or stain, a saw (if necessary) and mounting hardware.
How to Make It:
- Source Your Wood: Look for wood in various places—old pallets, broken furniture or even scrap wood from previous projects. Each piece will have its own unique character.
- Cut and Sand: If needed, cut the wood to the desired size and shape. Sand down any rough edges for a smoother finish.
- Stain or Paint: Depending on your decor, you can leave the wood natural, stain it or paint it. For a distressed look, lightly sand the edges after painting.
- Create and Mount: Arrange the wood pieces to create your design. You can keep it simple with a single piece or combine several pieces for a more complex artwork.
I’ve worked with reclaimed wood on several projects and it never disappoints. The natural imperfections in the wood—knots, nail holes, weathered edges—add so much character to the finished piece. One of my favorite projects was a wall hanging made from old barn wood. It became the focal point of my living room and every visitor asked about it. Have you ever worked with reclaimed wood before? If not, give it a try! The results might surprise you.
Pro Tip: When using pallet wood, make sure it has been heat-treated (look for an “HT” stamp) rather than chemically treated. This ensures it’s safe for indoor use.
4. Cork Board Creations: Functional and Fabulous
Cork is an underrated material that can be turned into functional and stylish wall art. Not only does it add a natural, earthy vibe to your living room, but it’s also practical—you can use it to pin up photos, notes or small keepsakes.
What You’ll Need: Cork tiles or a cork board, paint or fabric and push pins or small nails.
How to Make It:
- Choose Your Cork: Start with either a plain cork board or a series of cork tiles. You can paint or cover them with fabric for added texture and color.
- Arrange Your Cork: Decide on the layout for your cork pieces on the wall. You can create a single large board or arrange smaller tiles in a pattern.
- Decorate and Use: Use push pins or small nails to attach photos, postcards or other decorative items to the cork. The best part is that you can change up your display whenever you like!
Cork has always been one of my go-to materials for quick and easy DIY projects. I once created a series of cork tiles, each painted in a different shade of blue and arranged them in a gradient pattern on my wall. Not only did it add a pop of color to the room, but it also served as a functional pinboard. What would you pin on a cork board in your living room?
Pro Tip: For a more finished look, consider framing the cork board or tiles. It adds a touch of elegance and makes the piece look more intentional.
5. Recycled Paper Art: Crafting with Consciousness
Paper might seem like a simple material, but it can be transformed into something extraordinary with a little creativity. Whether you’re using old magazines, newspapers or even junk mail, recycled paper offers endless possibilities for DIY wall art.
What You’ll Need: Old magazines, newspapers or other paper, glue, scissors and a canvas or board.
How to Make It:
- Gather Your Paper: Start by collecting various types of paper. Old magazines, newspapers or even junk mail can all be repurposed for this project.
- Create Your Design: Decide on the type of artwork you want to create. You could make a collage, cut out shapes for a mosaic or even roll the paper into tubes or spirals for a 3D effect.
- Assemble Your Art: Once you’ve decided on your design, start arranging the paper on your canvas or board. Once you’re satisfied with the layout, glue everything down.
- Finish and Mount: Allow the glue to dry completely before hanging your new artwork on the wall.
I’ve always loved working with paper and recycled paper art is one of my favorite projects. For one project, I created a collage using pages from old travel magazines. It was a great way to repurpose something that would have otherwise been thrown away. What kind of paper do you have lying around that could be turned into art? Maybe you have some old books, maps or even sheet music that could be repurposed into something beautiful.
Pro Tip: For added texture, consider layering the paper or using different types of paper for contrast. You can also experiment with folding or crumpling the paper to create a unique effect.
6. Fabric Wall Art: Soft, Stylish and Sustainable
Fabric is another versatile material that can be repurposed into beautiful wall art. Whether you’re using old clothes, scraps from previous projects or thrifted textiles, fabric wall art adds warmth and texture to any room.
What You’ll Need: Fabric (old clothes, scraps, etc.), embroidery hoops or a canvas and scissors.
How to Make It:
- Select Your Fabric: Choose fabric in colors and patterns that complement your living room decor. You can use old clothes, scarves or even scraps from other projects.
- Create Your Design: Depending on the look you want, you can stretch the fabric over a canvas or frame, use embroidery hoops or even create a patchwork design.
- Assemble Your Art: Once you’ve decided on your design, cut the fabric to size and secure it to your chosen frame. You can add embellishments like buttons, beads or embroidery for added texture.
- Mount and Enjoy: Hang your new fabric wall art on the wall and enjoy the cozy, personalized touch it adds to your living room.
Fabric wall art is one of those projects that’s easy to customize and perfect for adding a soft touch to your living room. I once used fabric scraps from an old quilt to create a series of embroidery hoop wall hangings. They added a bit of warmth and nostalgia to the room and the best part was that they were so easy to make! What kind of fabric would you use for a project like this? Do you have any old clothes or linens that could be repurposed into art?
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different fabrics. Combining patterns, textures and colors can create a visually interesting and cohesive piece.
7. Metallic Magic: From Junk to Jewelry for Your Walls
Metal might seem like a difficult material to work with, but it can be surprisingly versatile when repurposed for DIY wall art. Whether you’re using old cans, scrap metal or even leftover hardware, metallic elements add a touch of industrial chic to your living room.
What You’ll Need: Scrap metal, tin cans, old hardware, a hammer, nails and glue.
How to Make It:
- Collect Your Metal: Gather metal items from around your home or visit a local scrap yard. Look for interesting shapes and textures that can be incorporated into your design.
- Design Your Art: Depending on the look you’re going for, you can arrange the metal pieces in a geometric pattern, create a sculpture or even use them to spell out a word or phrase.
- Assemble and Mount: Once you’ve decided on your design, use nails, glue or wire to secure the metal pieces to a canvas or directly to the wall. Be sure to take your time and make sure everything is securely fastened.
I’ve worked with metal on a few projects and it’s always a fun challenge. One of my favorite pieces was made from old tin cans that I flattened and arranged in a sunburst pattern. It added a touch of industrial style to my living room and I loved how it turned out. What kind of metal items do you have lying around that could be turned into art? Maybe some old silverware, keys or even washers and bolts?
Pro Tip: If you’re working with sharp edges, be sure to sand them down or cover them with protective material to avoid any accidents.
8. Glass Jar Art: A Shimmering Showcase
Glass jars are often thrown away or relegated to the back of a cupboard, but they can be repurposed into beautiful, eye-catching wall art. Whether you’re using mason jars, old bottles or even glass tiles, these materials can add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your living room.
What You’ll Need: Glass jars, bottles or tiles, paint, glue and mounting hardware.
How to Make It:
- Clean and Prepare: Start by thoroughly cleaning your glass items. If you’re using jars or bottles, remove any labels and residue.
- Decorate Your Glass: Depending on the look you want, you can paint the glass, add embellishments like beads or stones or leave it plain for a more minimalist look.
- Create Your Design: Arrange the glass items on your wall or a canvas. You can create a pattern, spell out a word or simply cluster them together for a unique effect.
- Mount and Display: Secure the glass items to the wall using mounting hardware or strong adhesive. Be sure to double-check that everything is securely in place before hanging your artwork.
Glass art is one of those projects that always turns out beautifully, no matter what. I once created a wall display using old mason jars painted in different shades of blue and green. It added a calming, coastal vibe to my living room and I loved the way the light played off the glass. What kind of glass items do you have that could be repurposed into art? Maybe some old wine bottles, jars or even broken tiles?
Pro Tip: If you’re working with smaller glass items, consider grouping them together in a shadow box or frame for a more contained display.
9. Plastic Fantastic: Turning Waste into Wonder
Plastic waste is a major environmental issue, but with a bit of creativity, it can be transformed into stunning wall art. From bottle caps to plastic bags, there are endless ways to repurpose plastic materials into something beautiful and meaningful.
What You’ll Need: Plastic bottles, caps, bags or other plastic items, scissors, glue and paint.
How to Make It:
- Collect Your Plastic: Start by gathering plastic items from around your home. Bottles, caps, bags and even old toys can all be repurposed for this project.
- Design Your Art: Decide on the type of artwork you want to create. You could make a mosaic from bottle caps, a sculpture from plastic bottles or even weave plastic bags into a tapestry.
- Assemble and Mount: Once you’ve decided on your design, start assembling your plastic pieces. Glue, tape or wire can be used to secure everything in place. Be sure to take your time and make sure everything is securely fastened before hanging your artwork.
Working with plastic can be a bit challenging, but the results are always worth it. I once created a mosaic from plastic bottle caps and it turned out even better than I expected. The bright colors and varied textures added a playful, modern touch to my living room. What kind of plastic items do you have lying around that could be turned into art? Maybe some old toys, bottles or even plastic bags?
Pro Tip: If you’re working with plastic bags, consider weaving them together to create a textured, fabric-like effect. It’s a great way to add both color and texture to your artwork.
10. Nature-Inspired Art: Bringing the Outdoors In
Sometimes the best materials for wall art can be found right outside your door. Twigs, leaves, stones and other natural elements can be used to create beautiful organic artwork that brings a touch of the outdoors into your living room.
What You’ll Need: Twigs, leaves, stones or other natural elements, glue, paint and a canvas or board.
How to Make It:
- Collect Your Materials: Start by taking a walk outside and collecting natural elements that catch your eye. Twigs, leaves, stones and even flowers can all be used in your artwork.
- Design Your Art: Decide on the type of artwork you want to create. You could arrange twigs into a pattern, create a collage from leaves or even paint stones for a unique effect.
- Assemble and Mount: Once you’ve decided on your design, start assembling your natural elements. Glue them to a canvas or board and allow the glue to dry completely before hanging your artwork.
I’ve always loved incorporating natural elements into my decor and wall art is no exception. One of my favorite projects was a wall hanging made from driftwood and stones collected during a beach vacation. It added a rustic, beachy vibe to my living room and served as a lovely reminder of the trip. What kind of natural elements would you use in your wall art? Maybe some twigs and leaves from a recent hike or stones and shells collected from a favorite beach?
Pro Tip: If you’re using delicate items like leaves or flowers, consider pressing them first to preserve their shape and color.
11. Mixed Media Magic: Combining Materials for Unique Results
Why limit yourself to just one material when you can combine several for a truly unique piece of art? Mixed media art allows you to play with different textures, colors and materials to create something that’s entirely your own.
What You’ll Need: A combination of materials (paper, fabric, wood, metal, etc.), glue, paint and a canvas or board.
How to Make It:
- Gather Your Materials: Start by gathering a variety of materials from around your home. Paper, fabric, wood, metal and even plastic can all be used in your mixed media art.
- Design Your Art: Decide on the type of artwork you want to create. You could make a collage, an abstract piece or even a 3D sculpture. The possibilities are endless!
- Assemble and Mount: Once you’ve decided on your design, start assembling your materials. Glue, tape or wire can be used to secure everything in place. Be sure to take your time and make sure everything is securely fastened before hanging your artwork.
Mixed media art is one of my favorite ways to get creative because there are no rules! I once created a wall hanging using a combination of fabric, paper and metal and it turned out beautifully. The different textures and materials added depth and interest to the piece and it quickly became one of my favorite decor items. What kind of materials would you combine for a mixed media project? Maybe some old photos, fabric scraps or even small trinkets from around your home?
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques. The beauty of mixed media art is that there are no rules, so let your creativity run wild!
Conclusion: Your Turn to Get Creative!
As you can see, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating DIY living room wall art from recycled materials. Whether you’re working with paper, fabric, metal or even plastic, there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning something old and discarded into something beautiful and new.
So, which project are you most excited to try? Do you have a pile of old magazines that could be turned into a collage or maybe some fabric scraps that would make a lovely wall hanging? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations!
And remember, the most important thing is to have fun and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, there’s no right or wrong way to create wall art. So go ahead, gather your materials and start creating something beautiful for your living room. Happy crafting!