After services from funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. for your loved one, you will need to address many issues. One such issue is what to do with their things. Many times individuals and families may keep what is special and then donate the rest to shelters and organizations that can find use with these items. Another option is to “upcycle” some of their old items. Directors of funeral homes in Ukiah, CA explain more. 

What is Upcycling? 

If you have not heard of the term “upcycling”, it simply means taking an old item and turning it into something new and useful. This can be done with just about any item but many people enjoy upcycling their loved one’s old clothes as it is a way to keep the clothes of their loved one and use them on a daily basis. 

Don’t worry if you are not sure what to do or were to start. We are going to cover some of our favorite ideas to provide you inspiration. 

1. Creating Food Wraps 

While food wraps might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to reusing old clothing, this is wonderful and easy idea. All you need to do is first cut the sizes and shapes of the fabric you wish from the old clothing. Then grab some beeswax (can be found online, or grocery store) and melt it down. Apply the melted beeswax to the fabric with a paint brush in an even layer and hang to dry in a cool place. You can find exact instructions as well as videos online at sites like YouTube. 

2. Make a Cushion Cover 

Have a pillow you want to cover? Don’t know how (or want to) sew? Grab one of your loved one’s old t-shirts and you can create a no-sew cushion cover in minutes. Finding DIY tutorials for this is easy online as there are plenty of them. If you would like to make something more permanent, there are also options that use sewing. These pillows are great to cuddle up with on the couch or would make a wonderful gift for other family members. 

3. Get Warm and Cozy 

If you are wanting to create something a little warm and cozy, consider using one of your loved one’s sweaters and creating a pair of winter mittens. Not only will they keep your hands warm, but they will also bring warmth to your heart all winter long. 

If mittens aren’t your thing, you can also find DIY videos on how to turn an old sweater info a pair of slippers. These would also make wonderful holiday presents for other family members. 

Final Thoughts 

After your loved services from funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. deciding what to do with their old items can be a tough process. Knowing you can take some of their old clothing and use it for “upcycling” into new items can be a welcomed relief. Not only are you getting to keep their old clothing which can make you feel closer to them, you will be turning it into something you will actually use rather than have it sit in a closet of hope chest.