Upcycling tips from RYOBI desktop
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Upcycling tips from RYOBI

Upcycling is a brilliant way to reduce waste, save money, and unleash your creativity—and with RYOBI’s versatile tools, even beginners can turn old items into something fresh and functional. Here’s how to get started and what gear you’ll need.

RYOBI TEAM Mon, 05/04/2026 - 04:03
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Upcycling made easy: How to transform trash into treasure with RYOBI tools

In a world where fast fashion, mass production and throwaway culture dominate, upcycling offers a refreshing alternative. It’s not just about saving the planet — it’s about giving new life to old things, saving a few bucks, and creating something uniquely yours. Whether you’re repurposing furniture, revamping décor, or turning pallets into planters, upcycling is a DIY movement that’s gaining serious traction across Australia and New Zealand.

RYOBI’s range of user-friendly power tools makes getting started easier than ever — even if you’ve never picked up a power tool before.

In this article we’ll look at upcycling old furniture. But practically anything can be upcycled – cans, boxes, planters, decorations ... you name it. 

Why upcycling is worth it

You’ve heard of the saying: “They don’t make ‘em like the used to” is often true when referring to furniture. Hence, giving well-built pieces another lease on life makes perfect sense. Think about the pleasure you’ll feel from transforming old, unwanted or discarded items into something useful, beautiful, or both.

 

Here are a few reasons to embrace upcycling:

  • Environmental impact: It reduces landfill waste and conserves resources. According to Clean Up Australia, upcycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce household waste.
  • Budget-friendly: Instead of buying new, you can repurpose what you already have or pick up second-hand items for a fraction of the cost.
  • Creative expression: From rustic coffee tables to quirky garden art, upcycling lets you put your personal stamp on every project.
  • Skill-building: You’ll learn practical skills like sanding, drilling, painting, and assembling — great for confidence and capability.
  • Unique gifts: Can’t think of what to buy a friend or loved one? Make something awesome! 

Beginner-friendly projects

If you’re new to upcycling, start small. Choose projects that require minimal materials and basic tools. Here are a few ideas:

  • Pallet planter box: Turn an old pallet into a vertical herb garden.
  • Chair makeover: Sand and repaint a tired dining chair for a fresh look.
  • Drawer shelf: Mount an old drawer on the wall as a shadow box or shelf.
  • Tin can lanterns (great for Halloween): Punch holes in empty cans to create decorative outdoor lights.

The key is to look at items not for what they are, but for what they could become. Op shops, kerbside collections (check with your local council), and garage sales are goldmines for upcyclers. 

Project Inspiration

Upcycled Cabinet

Upcycled Drawers

Upcycled Dining Set promo

Upcycled Dining Set

If you have some older, outdated furniture that’s too good to throw out, Brooke Styles has a step-by-step guide on how to modernise it, whether to keep it yourself or turn it into some extra cash!

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Using a RYOBI Sander to strip back old timber cabinet

Upcycled Coffee Station

Before you throw out your old timber cabinet (or if you find one), consider upcycling it to turn it into a useful piece of furniture. In this case, a coffee station.

Learn more

RYOBI tools that make upcycling easy

You don’t need a full workshop to get started—just a few reliable tools. RYOBI’s ONE+ system is perfect for beginners because all the tools run on the same 18V battery, making it easy to build your collection over time.

Here are the essentials:

18V Drill Driver Starter Kit

RYOBI ONE+ Cordless Drill Driver

A must-have for assembling furniture, attaching brackets, or drilling pilot holes. Lightweight and easy to control, it’s ideal for beginners.

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ONE+ HP BL Compact 125mm Random Orbital Sander

RYOBI ONE+ Random Orbital Sander

Perfect for prepping surfaces. Whether you’re removing old paint or smoothing rough timber, this sander gives you a clean base to work with.

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ONE+ HP BL Multitool

RYOBI ONE+ Multi-Tool

This versatile tool can cut, sand, and scrape. Great for trimming wood, removing grout, or cutting through metal and plastic.

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RYOBI 18V ONE+ COMPACT GLUE GUN

RYOBI ONE+ Glue Gun

For decorative touches or lightweight assembly, a cordless glue gun is a game-changer. Use it for fabric, embellishments, or quick fixes.

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18V ONE+ 3-Piece Upcycling Kit

RYOBI ONE+ Jigsaw

If you’re cutting shapes or curves in timber, a jigsaw is your best mate. It’s easy to handle and perfect for creative cuts.

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18V LED Shoplight

RYOBI ONE+ LED light

Good lighting makes a huge difference—especially if you’re working in a shed or garage. This portable light helps you see details clearly.

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Sustainability meets style

Upcycling isn’t just about being thrifty — it’s about making conscious choices. By reusing items, you’re reducing demand for new production and raw materials, cutting down on emissions, and keeping usable items out of landfill.

And the best part? You’re creating something that’s truly one-of-a-kind – and every piece tells a story.

 

Start small, dream big

Upcycling is one of the most rewarding DIY hobbies out there. It’s good for the planet, good for your wallet, and great for your creativity. With RYOBI’s beginner-friendly tools and a bit of imagination, you can turn everyday items into something extraordinary.

So next time you’re about to toss that old chair, picture frame, coffee table or cracked mirror, pause and ask: What could this become? 

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