This should have been my first post, but since it hasn't been answered, here I am! My definition of upcycling/repurposing is:
to take an object that isn't being used anymore and to create something better with it.
Boom. There it is.
My favorite things to upcycle/repurpose into jewelry are:
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keys
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drawer pulls
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clip on earrings
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monocles
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flowers
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little lightbulbs
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broken costume or vintage jewelry
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brooches
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rhinestones
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leather belts
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jean labels
Anything can be upcycled/repurposed! Some people are taking old tires and making beds for pets. You can take your old baby and toddler clothes and have them put into a quilt. People are making new furniture, rugs...Anything!!! Here is a great site for inspiraton: www.upcyclethat.com