How to Upcycle Souvenirs & Gift Items From the Thrift Store
Let’s go over some ideas for thrift store souvenirs and gifts that you can upcycle. Giving a gift you worked on can make it much more meaningful and unique. Using thrifted items will save you money and allow you to get creative.
For outdated glass or ceramic vases start by using a coat of spray primer. Bring new life and style to the vase by doing a bit of decoupage. Use a napkin with a nice print. Rip it into small pieces to help the pattern blend nicely when applying. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge matte and apply the napkin pieces all over covering the surface. When dry, seal with a polyacrylic sealer.
If you don’t want to decoupage, coffee paint is great for revitalizing old items. Mix some coffee grounds with white paint. Apply two coats to enhance the texture. Seal with a polyacrylic sealer. This will turn a dated candle holder into a stunning modern piece that will perfectly blend with any décor due to its neutral color.
Another way to upcycle old pieces and get an aged, worn pottery look is with dirt. Just go outside and grab a handful of dirt and rub it into the spray-painted surface. Brush off the extra as you go along. Apply a coat of Mod Podge matte, then take another handful of dirt and sprinkle it over the wet Mod Podge. Set it aside and let it dry completely. Then rub off any excess dirt and add another layer of mod podge to seal it.
Anyone can get creative with these simple methods. Use these techniques to personalize and bring new life to your thrifted items. Giving a gift that you worked on yourself will make the present that much more special.
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