5 Upcycling DIY Horse Projects for the Crafty Equestrian

Have old horse tack or equipment just taking up space, but not getting any use? Consider upcycling as a great way to bring new life to older equine products. Here are some of Jeffers' favorite tack upcycling projects that each take 30 minutes or less to complete. They're great for beginning crafters or those looking to add small equestrian touches to their home to start! Make sure to clean any gently used tack before use in a project. The time it takes to clean tack is not included in the project estimate.

5 Upcycling Projects for Crafty Equestrians Under 30 Minutes Each!

Hand Towel Holder

Supplies Needed: Stirrup (ideally one that's wide and flat-bottomed), hand towels (3)
Estimated Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Project Description: A quick and easy addition to any bathroom, this project requires minimal work. Simply place the stirrup in your desired location, roll towels, and stack them pyramid-style. This also works great for napkins at a party!

Curtain Tie-Back

DIY curtain ties can be a cinch.

Supplies Needed: Stirrup or spur straps, or maybe a small cinch
Estimated Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Project Description: Tie-backs are a great way to add character and charm to a room, without a lot of commitment. For a free-hanging curtain, adjust the strap(s) to the required width and buckle or fasten into place. This idea also works with curtain wall hooks, but additional supplies and time are required.

Bits make great napkin rings.

Napkin Rings

Supplies Needed: Napkins, small bits
Estimated Time: 10 minutes for a table of six
Project Description: Bring an extra level of equestrian flair to your next dinner party. Just work the napkin through the bit, make them look uniform, and place one with each table setting.

Scarf Holder

Supplies Needed: Medium jointed bits, bubble level, hammer, nails
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Project Description: Have tons of scarves? Me too! This project is a great way to display your scarves and old tack without spending additional money. Before starting this project, consider the layout for the bits. Using the ruler and level, figure out the distance you'd like between each bit and that the spot will be level. Using the pencil, lightly mark each spot on the wall where a nail should go. From there, take the bit, place the nail through the center joint, and hammer it into place. Both sides of the bit should now hang to one side. Add scarves and voila! Quick and easy storage. Repeat as necessary.

Pillows

Supplies Needed: Small bits, ribbon, needle and thread
Estimated Time: 10 to 20 minutes
Project Description: Add some decorative touches to your pillow with smaller bits! The ribbon should be long enough to go around the entirety of the pillow. Cut the ribbon in half and secure one half to each half of the bit. Wrap it around the pillow, vertically or horizontally, and secure into place by tightening and stitching the ribbon together where the free ends meet.

Care and upkeep is an important factor in upcycling or repurposing tack.

For more information and tips, read our post on the upkeep of leather tack here. If you love these ideas, or crafty DIY or upcycling projects in general, see more ideas on our DIY Pinterest board!