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Book Review: Building with Secondhand Stuff – A Must-Have Guide for Upcyclers, DIYers and Eco-Minded Makers

May 24, 2025 by Shellie Wilson

How to build with secondhand things

If you love upcycling, reclaiming materials, or giving secondhand items a new life, then Building with Secondhand Stuff is a book that belongs in your creative toolbox. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY builder or just someone who hates to see good materials go to waste, this book is packed with inspiration, practical know-how, and a whole lot of resourceful energy.

Written in a straightforward, approachable tone, this guide covers a wide range of projects that use salvaged and leftover building materials—from reclaimed wood and old doors to scrap metal, tile, and more. The author takes you through the process of sourcing materials, understanding their potential, and using them safely and effectively in your DIY builds.

One of the things I really appreciate is that the book doesn’t just show off finished projects — it walks you through the process and encourages you to think creatively with what you have on hand. It’s the kind of resource that feels just as at home in a workshop as it does on your bookshelf.

From upcycled furniture ideas to DIY home improvement with reclaimed materials, this book offers real solutions for reducing waste while creating stylish, functional pieces. It’s perfect for eco-conscious homeowners, makers, or anyone looking to make meaningful changes through sustainable design.

Whether you’re working with old windows, pallets, or leftover tile, Building with Secondhand Stuff gives you the confidence to turn “junk” into something useful and beautiful. And if you’re anything like me — constantly rescuing curbside finds or haunting salvage yards — you’ll find this book both affirming and full of new ideas.

This is a must-read for lovers of recycled building projects, DIY upcycled home decor, and creative reuse. It’s informative, inspiring, and proof that the best materials are often the ones that have already lived a life before.

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Have you read?

Transform Old License Plates Into a Stunning Caddy – You Won’t Believe How Easy It Is

If you’re someone who loves upcycling, this DIY project is for you! In many states, we’re required to return old license plates to the Department of Transport when they expire. for those of you who do not need to, why not turn those old, forgotten plates into something fabulous? This creative idea allows you to repurpose old license plates into a unique and stylish caddy that’s perfect for organizing or adding a quirky touch to your home.

Not only is this project a fun way to recycle, but it also gives those outdated plates a second life. Whether you’re looking to create a handy storage caddy for your garden tools, a stylish drink holder for parties, or a rustic piece to organize bathroom essentials, this upcycled license plate caddy can serve many purposes. The weathered charm of the license plates combined with the sleek wooden accents makes it the perfect mix of rustic and modern. It is also a great way to create a keepsake, maybe they are Grandpas old plates?

This is a simple, yet satisfying project that anyone can tackle. You don’t need to be a seasoned crafter to make it, and it’s an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. All you need are a few basic materials—old license plates, wood, and a few basic tools like screws and a drill. Once completed, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece that adds both style and function to your space.

Whether it’s for your home, garage, or garden, this upcycled license plate caddy will give new life to those old plates and show just how much can be done with a little creativity and some DIY spirit.

So grab those expired plates, get your tools ready, and start crafting. This fun project is a perfect example of how recycling can be both eco-friendly and incredibly rewarding!  You can view the full tutorial here.

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