What is the difference?

[mrs_overall]

Evening all. Can someone please explain the difference between recycling and upcycling? I've heard of upcycling on several tv programmes. If you tart up an old sideboard it is still an old sideboard that you have recycled....in my opinion.

[Psybbo]

e're missing you, how are you, can't answer but so glad to see you xx

[2sp_]

I think recycling is where you completely change an item into something new - like making a skirt out of a pair of curtains.

Upcycling is where you would dye the curtains a different colour and still use them as curtains.

I think.

[ChuckFickens]

Recycle is breaking down an item and re-using the parts or materials for another use.

Upcycle is re-using the item as it is.

[mrs_overall]

Hello sibs - missed you too, hope you are ok xx

[2sp_]

Nice to see you, Mrs O, by the way.

[Eve]

Never heard of upcycling but is recycling if you change the use?

[mrs_overall]

Ah, now I understand. Thanks folks

[gness]

Hi lovely lady....how are you? x
Maybe recycling is turning it into something else and upcycling is making it different/better but the same thing.
Had a glass or two so may not make sense. x

[boxtops]

Upcycling's where you create something new out of the old thing - like a dress out of a pair of curtains :-)

[ttfn]

In Holland, recycling goes the rounds, but they cannot upcycle :(

[mrs_overall]

Thanks 2sp
Evening gness....hic lol

[Psybbo]

All I can think of is
recycling - reusing
upcycling - turning it into something else or becoming an antique

[boxtops]

We had an upcycling charity shop for a short while - they made new things out of old other things, like table lamps out of candlesticks.

[Psybbo]

Or maybe Bradley Wiggins?

[ttfn]

The Sound of Music was upcycling then, boxy?

thuddddd

[gness]

Meeving HrsMO. hic. x

[boxtops]

yep, raindrops on roses sell well :-)

[magsmay]

As far as I can gather 'upcycling' is a word invented by designers and the like as an excuse to add a 'few zeros' onto the price of what is basically rubbish ;-)

[mrs_overall]

magsmay, that is a very sensible answer and I agree with it

[Psybbo]

So upcycling is the word to use for your craft, mrs_ontheupandup