You may have old furniture at home that is outdated, damaged, or just doesn't match your current aesthetic. So, you might be wondering what to do with it. You could be thinking about storing it indefinitely or disposing of it on the curb.
However, old wood furniture doesn't have to be stored into oblivion or become landfill fodder. With a little creativity and a willingness to break some sweat, you can transform those tired and dusty pieces into stunning additions to your home. Here are some simple ideas to upcycle old furniture:
Reimagine the Purpose
Upcycling is a creative venture, and you’re encouraged to think outside the box. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to upcycling. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Repurpose an old dresser into a bathroom vanity by taking out the drawers, leaving the drawer face intact, and cutting the top to install a sink and countertop. You can save the cut pieces for another DIY project.
- Transform an old wardrobe or bookcase into a pantry. Add shelves, spice racks, and baskets for organized storage. Replace the doors with glass so you can easily track what needs replacing.
- Give an old dresser a new lease of life as a TV stand. Cut out a space for cords in the back and add open shelves or baskets for media storage. Or, remove the drawers and replace them with doors.
Paint It Anew
Upcycling involves transforming unwanted or outdated items into something new and functional. The key aspect is that the item’s purpose often changes or takes on a new aesthetic.
This said, repainting old wood furniture is a fantastic way to upcycle it. While the core function of the piece remains the same, the entire look and feel are dramatically altered because of the new color.
A fresh coat of paint simply breathes new life into old furniture, from dusty and obscure to a statement piece. You can choose a color that complements your existing decor or go bold for a complete transformation. Repainting also opens doors to interesting techniques like distressed finishes and geometric patterns, making the piece unique and personalized.
Decoupage for More Color
Decoupage is a wonderful way to give old furniture a brand-new look–from florals, intricate patterns, and a burst of multiple colors, you name it. This crafting technique uses a decoupage medium to adhere decorative paper and fabric to the furniture surface. It's a simple but creative way to turn old furniture into a true statement piece, hiding minor imperfections, creating a specific theme or design, and giving it a purpose, all in one go.
Replace What You Can
Embrace texture, replace old hardware, and upgrade the upholstery–basically change the parts that need replacing so that the old piece becomes brand new.
Add visual interest to smooth surfaces by changing the finish with textured paint. For tables, you can add a mosaic tile top or replace the tabletop with reclaimed wood to create a more rustic feel.
New hardware on old furniture can instantly update its look and feel. Replace outdated hardware with knobs and handles or pulls in a style best suited to your style. For example, replace plastic knobs with brass pulls to create a mid-century feel on your furniture.
Replacing upholstery is necessary for old furniture, especially when the fabric is worn out or very dirty. Choose a classic fabric or one with a striking pattern, anything that complements your decor. For a more daring approach, consider re-upholstering with something unique like a tapestry or a faux fur throw.
Basic Tips to Get Started
Before transforming an old piece of furniture, ensure it has a strong and sturdy foundation. Structural integrity is important, especially for those pieces that are highly functional and carry weight daily. Necessary adjustments can be made to reinforce the structure (for example, fortifying a coffee table's legs), but also consider if the effort is worth it.
Next, thoroughly assess for flaws and repair them as needed. Upcycling is a breeze when there's less fixing up to do. If you find loose joints, bolster them first to prevent the piece from falling apart during the makeover. Minor imperfections such as scratches can be covered up with paint, and cracks can be repaired with wood filler or simply left as is to add character to the piece.
Of course, the upcycling process is much easier when the piece you're working on is clean. Wipe away dirt and dust with a damp cloth. For stubborn grime, use a gentle cleaning solution to make it shine. Remember that the furniture is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
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When it comes to repurposing old furniture, the goal is to breathe new life into it, and there are so many creative ways to do this. Feel free to experiment and have fun with your upcycling project. You might be surprised by how stylish and functional the piece becomes.