Turning the tables at Laois upcycling workshop
Hard at work during the upcycling workshop in Portlaoise
UPCYCLING fans turned the tables on a throwaway economy at a timely workshop in Portlaoise.
Tired old furniture was given a new lease of life at the hands-on event, when people not only revived treasured yet shabby pieces but also learned useful creative skills.
The one-day workshop was hosted by Stephanie Kelly, the county’s EU Just Transition Officer, who is passionate about helping people to repair and reuse everyday items instead of sending them to landfill.
The workshop brought local residents together to revive old chairs, coffee tables and other small pieces that might otherwise be dumped, promoting creativity as well as waste prevention.
From upcycling tips and tricks to painting and upholstery, the event was a hive of activity as people turned worn furniture into unique, functional pieces.
Stephanie led the initiative on 14 October in partnership with Dublin-based The Rediscovery Centre, the new National Centre for the Circular Economy.
Funding for the workshop, which was held at The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence, was provided as part of the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan ‘Pathway for Just Transition’ project.
The Rediscovery Centre’s experts guided people through a variety of upcycling skills, teaching practical techniques on how to repair, redesign and reuse furniture that had seen better days.
Stephanie explained: “The Just Transition Fund supports communities in the midlands to move towards a more sustainable and circular economy. Initiatives like this upcycling workshop show how local creativity and collaboration can drive positive environmental change, while supporting new skills and green opportunities.
“By empowering people to repair, reuse and reimagine materials, we are not only reducing waste but also building community resilience and contributing to the region’s transition to a low-carbon future.”
The CUBE managing director Caroline Hofman said it was fantastic to see key household items revived so beautifully.
She said “Events like this really show how even small, practical actions can make a big difference, helping people to think creatively about reuse and to see the potential in what they already own.
“Upcycling is not just about reducing waste. It’s about building awareness, community connections and new skills that support a more sustainable way of living. We look forward to supporting initiatives like this again in the future.”
