The older we get, the more we're into the idea of minimized consumption. They say the less stuff you have, the happier we are and we agree, but we also think it's what you do with what you have that makes all the difference. Handmaking clothing, DIY'ing accessories and upcycling home decor do wonders for not only our aesthetic lives, but our mental health as well.

So in honor of Earth Day, we suggest you take a scan through you closet, rummage through your scrap bin and scope out a few of our favorite ways to upcycle, refashion and otherwise put what you already have to good use!

May we suggest you...

Don't toss a stained blouse. No-Sew Blouse Refashion by Sheri Pavlovic

Skip the plastic sandwich bags. Reusable Bread Bag by I Love Green Grass

Cozy up with scraps. Improvised Blue Scrap Quilt by Sew DIY

Transform an old sweatshirt. Refashioned Sweatshirt Tee by Amy Nicole

Refresh a sweater project. Sweater Upcycling by Knit York City

Bring the (vintage) bling. Antique Brooch Necklace by Michelle Bingham

Put old yarn to good use. How to Make Pom Poms by Kollabora