As opposed to downcycling, upcycling converts waste materials and unused products into new materials and products that are of higher quality. Like recycling or downcycling, it aims to lessen the use of virgin materials when creating new products. In the case of upcycling, the result should be a product of better value. An example would be high-end furniture made up of old shipping pallets or re-worked vintage clothing. The key to upcycling is usually innovative design.