By taking advantage of unwanted materials and the surplus of second-hand fabrics that are readily available in almost every thrift store, the possibilities for brand-new functioning works of art are practically unlimited to Krystal Hernandez, who uses the bounty of supplies she finds in these stores to craft handmade aprons that are equally as unique as they are visually stunning.

Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Turning Old Household Items Into...Household Items

After posting her creations to a Facebook page titled "Repurpose + Upcycle = Inspiration", her impressive collection of tailored and handcrafted aprons dazzled the eyes of countless art enthusiasts in the form of post reactions and uplifting comments. The outburst of appreciation was certainly warranted, as what Krystal was able to do with thrown-out curtains, table cloths, rugs, and what appears to be an old pair of Harry Potter pj's- are all nothing short of awe-inspiring. It is certainly a step up from my attempt of repurposing old collector coffee mugs into planting pots for the Venus flytrap I bought at a farmer's market last summer, and it only lived for three weeks. Her aprons, on the other hand, can be enjoyed for a whole lifetime of joyful and colorful cooking experiences.

You can also send Krystal some beloved pieces of clothing and she will create a custom piece for you. This is a lovely gift if you or someone you love is grieving or is having a hard time letting go of a particular piece of clothing.

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Fun and Eye-Catching Cooking Ware

What Krystal has created truly could be its own gallery in an art museum, based on quality and uniqueness alone. Not only is every single apron completely distinct in pattern, but her ability to elegantly weave threads into differently shaped masterpieces is something that every seamstress and textile artist would be impressed by. Some are more traditional and simple in design, while others are extravagant and exceptionally layered, looking like something a Disney Princess would wear in those animated cartoon movies from the 90s. 

My personal favorite is the one that has the centerpiece with Bluey on it, as it's easily my favorite show to put on when I'm babysitting duty with the little ones in the family. Let's be honest, we all quote lines from that show. But what about you? Any of these threads look like your next art purchase?

Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Let's Learn More About What Upcycling Is

It's self-explanatory enough by the name, but it's the act of- nay, the art of taking unwanted items to create a new object of higher purpose and/or quality. So it's basically what every person says they'll do when they impulse buy things at a yard sale, but she actually follows through with it rather than just letting whatever it is collect dust in the attic. It's a clever way to put creative prowess to the test and to effectively recycle materials while using a fun hashtag when you share the finished product online. 

Now, it's pivotal that you understand the difference between upcycling and recycling, because those that are passionate about the hobby on the Reddit thread I saw seem to take it awfully personally if you use the two words interchangeably. And if you plan on making it through your next conversation at a local microbrewery, I'd recommend that you know the differentiation. Per UpcycleThat.com, it is defined as:

"The act of taking something no longer in use and giving it a second life and new function. In doing so, the finished product often becomes more practical, valuable and beautiful than what it previously was."

Art or a Hobby, Upcycling is a Great Way to Bring Life to Unwanted Objects

Creativity and willingness to sift through hoards of inventory at thrift stores is truly the only limit to sculpting brand-new creations. What do you reckon? Does upcycling sound like something you could do in your free time? If you need some ideas to start, here's a great source to see how others have embraced this form of DIY. It never hurts to add a new interest to your list of hobbies, and the inspiration for a new craft can be found almost everywhere! 

Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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Krystal Hernandez
Krystal Hernandez
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What are the Meanings of Secret Codes You Might Hear While Shopping

On rare occasions, there will be announcements made using secret codes that only employees understand at the store. Some of these are pretty scary and if you hear them, you will want to exit the store ASAP.

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